Last week when Google started rolling out the XE9 update for Google Glass devices, the focus was on some new features and user interface improvements. A more subtle, but perhaps useful, change was included in the update package that frees users from having to use a wireless “tether” to their smartphone when a WiFi connection is not available. That can help users of the device since many carriers charge an extra fee for tethering capabilities. The connection between a smartphone and Glass is accomplished via a Bluetooth connection which is normally detectable by a carrier. The XE9 update bypasses the normal link, so at least for now, carriers are not able to detect the tethered device.
With so many manufacturers working on wearable computing devices that are connected to their smartphones, it will be interesting to see whether workaround like this have to be implemented on a routine basis or whether carriers change their business models and policies regarding tethered devices.
source: 9to5Google
