Readers like you help support MUO. When you make a purchase using links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Read More.

How can I make Android connect to an open Wi-Fi network even when using Cellular data?

Anay Chaubal
2013-04-17 19:53:43
mate, this feature is either or, and both cannot be enabled that way. since most phones are designed to use only one connection for data services, it is built that way. may be you can contact the ODMs such as foxconn to have them design a custom handset for you (sic) :PBattery usage on smart phones, is the reason why i think that this is not possible.
MAKEUSEOF VIDEO OF THE DAY
SCROLL TO CONTINUE WITH CONTENT
Sheldon
2013-04-16 00:57:32
Check out smart wifi toggler on Google Play
DrSunil Vaswani
2013-04-18 18:01:51
You mean without the app , by default both wifi and mobile data would be used when both are enabled and available?With both wifi and mobile data on - When wifi is accessed I have noted the 'H" symbol of 3G mobile data access automatically de-activating......what would this mean? toggling from 3G to wifi?So app not necessary?
Chris Marcoe
2013-04-14 22:30:54
In settings>Wifi you should have an option to set it to notify you if a wifi connection is present. And to give you the option to log into it or use your own data plan.
Chris Marcoe
2013-04-19 00:30:13
I misspoke. On my phone (4.0.2) you swipe the notifications and it will say: Wi-fi networks are available" Go there are you should be able to pick the network you want. If it is not there, and you know you are close, the network might not be broadcasting the SSID. If that is the case, then go to settings and connect there. You will have to do it manually.
ha14
2013-04-14 21:07:14
What connection does Android use when both WiFi and mobile data are simultaneously enabled?http://www.makeuseof.com/answers/what-connection-does-android-use-when-both-wifi-and-mobile-data-are-simultaneously-enabled/perhaps tasker can help?https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/7251228/type/dlg/sid/UUmuoUeUpU78122/https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.dinglisch.android.taskermnever used it in the situation that you want.How to keep WiFi Active during android phone standy or sleephttp://techotv.com/how-to-keep-wifi-active-during-android-phone-standy-or-sleep/
ha14
2013-04-19 15:26:27
Yes, i think wifi will take over but mobile data will still be there if higher demanding process or messaging, call neededas example for internet Wi-Fi Direct uses a local IP and will not conflict with 3g connectivity.considering custom settings, perhaps you hav an option like Prompt me when a saved hotspot is found nearby, in Wifi Network Settings...Open WiFi Finder (Scanner)[Broken Link Removed]Juice Defenderhttp://www.juicedefender.com/AutomateIThttps://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/7251228/type/dlg/sid/UUmuoUeUpU78122/https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=AutomateIt.mainPackageyou can make some rules likeWIFI Connected, Turn Off Packet DataWIFI Disconnected, Enable Packet Data