iPhone hotspot not working? 9 fixes when it won’t show up
Most hotspot problems come from a setting on the iPhone, not the laptop. Maximize Compatibility fixes a lot of them.
The fix
9 fixes, in order
- 1
Turn on Allow Others to Join.
Settings › Personal Hotspot.
- 2
Turn on Maximize Compatibility.
It switches to 2.4 GHz, which older laptops and cars need.
- 3
Keep the Personal Hotspot screen open while the other device searches.
- 4
Make sure Cellular Data is on.
- 5
Turn off Low Data Mode and Low Power Mode.
- 6
Restart the iPhone and the other device.
- 7
Forget the hotspot on the other device and join again.
- 8
Install a carrier settings update.
Settings › General › About.
- 9
Reset network settings.
Settings › General › Transfer or Reset iPhone › Reset › Reset Network Settings.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Personal Hotspot greyed out or missing?
Your plan may not include hotspot, or cellular data is off. Turn on Cellular Data, install a carrier settings update, and ask your carrier to enable it.
Why does my hotspot keep disconnecting?
The iPhone turns hotspot off when nothing is connected for a while, and Low Power or Low Data Mode can cut it. Turn those off and keep the phone charging.
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