Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more

To connect an Android phone to an iPhone hotspot, turn on Allow Others to Join on the iPhone, then select the iPhone’s Wi-Fi network on Android and enter the hotspot password shown on the iPhone. The connection uses the iPhone’s cellular data, not a Wi-Fi network the iPhone is already using.

Turn on Personal Hotspot on the iPhone

  1. Open Settings > Personal Hotspot. Depending on the iOS version and region, you may find it under Cellular or Mobile Service.

  2. Turn on Allow Others to Join.

  3. Read the Wi-Fi password shown on the Personal Hotspot screen. The hotspot’s network name is the iPhone’s device name. To check or change that name, go to Settings > General > About > Name.

    Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  4. If Android does not find the network promptly, leave the Personal Hotspot screen open while connecting.

    #1 Best Overall
    Anker USB C to Ethernet Adapter, Portable 1 Gbps Network Hub
    • The Anker Advantage: Join the 65 million+ powered by our leading technology.
    • Instant Internet: Connect to the internet instantly from virtually any USB-C 3.0 device, and enjoy stable connection speeds of up to 1 Gbps.
    • Lightweight and Compact: The space-saving and portable design measures just over half an inch thick and weighs about the same as a AA battery.
    • Premium Build: Features a sleek aluminum exterior and braided-nylon cable to complement the design of high-end devices.
    • What You Get: PowerExpand USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, welcome guide, 18-month worry-free warranty, and friendly customer service.

Apple’s Personal Hotspot instructions describe the iPhone setup and connection. Apple’s general preparation guidance says to keep devices within 30 feet (10 meters); this is a guidance distance, not a guaranteed range or performance measurement.

Join the iPhone hotspot from Android

  1. On Android, open Settings > Network & internet > Internet. Menu names can vary by Android version and phone manufacturer.

  2. Make sure Wi-Fi is on, then tap the iPhone’s network name in the available Wi-Fi list.

    Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
    Rank #2
    Sale
    UGREEN USB C to Ethernet Adapter, Plug and Play 1Gbps Aluminum Adapter
    • USB-C Meets 1000Mbps Ethernet in Seconds:UGREEN usb c to ethernet adapter supports fast speeds up to 1000Mbps and is backward compatible with 100/10Mbps network. Perfect for work, gaming, streaming, or downloading with a stable, reliable wired connection
    • Extend a Ethernet Port for Your Device:This ethernet to usb c adds a Gigabit RJ45 port to your device. It’s the perfect solution for new laptops without built-in Ethernet, devices with damaged LAN ports, or when WiFi is unavailable or unstable
    • Plug and Play: This Ethernet adapter is driver-free for Windows 11/10/8.1/8, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android. Drivers are required for Windows XP/7/Vista and Linux, and can be easily installed using our instructions. LED indicator shows status at a glance
    • Small Adapter, Big Attention to Detail: The usb c to ethernet features a durable aluminum alloy case for faster heat dissipation than plastic. Its reinforced cable tail and wear-resistant port ensure long-lasting durability. Compact size and easy to carry
    • Widely Compatible: The usbc to ethernet adapter is compatible with most laptops, tablets, smartphones, Nintendo Switch, and Steam Deck with USB-C or Thunderbolt 4/3 port, like MacBook Pro/Air, XPS, iPhone 17/16/15 Pro/Pro Max, Mac Mini, Chromebook, iPad
  3. Enter the password shown on the iPhone’s Personal Hotspot screen and connect. Google documents this Wi-Fi path in its Android Wi-Fi connection guide.

Open a webpage or app to confirm the connection works. The Android phone is using the iPhone’s cellular internet connection, so data use counts against the iPhone’s cellular plan.

If Android cannot find or join the hotspot

The iPhone’s network does not appear

The password is rejected

Read the current password directly from Settings > Personal Hotspot on the iPhone and enter it again. This avoids relying on an old password or a mistyped network credential.

Rank #4
Sale
TP-Link USB C to Ethernet Adapter (UE300C), Compact, Plug & Play
  • 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡-𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐔𝐒𝐁-𝐂 𝐄𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 - Instantly transform your laptop or tablet’s USB-C port into a reliable wired connection with a 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet port. Perfect for replacing unstable Wi-Fi in situations that require uninterrupted connectivity, such as online meetings, gaming, and media streaming.
  • 𝐔𝐒𝐁-𝐂 𝟑.𝟎 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 - Experience full Gigabit Ethernet performance over your laptop’s USB-C 3.0 port and elevate your browsing experience to transfer files, play games, video chat, and stream HD videos seamlessly. (To reach 1Gbps, please use CAT6 or up Ethernet cables.)
  • 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐫𝐚-𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 - At just 2.8 x 1.0 x 0.6 inches, the UE300C slips easily into your laptop bag or pocket. The lightweight yet durable build makes it perfect for travel, remote work, or quick setup in conference rooms.
  • 𝐏𝐥𝐮𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲- No driver required for Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux (Ubuntu). Simply connect and enjoy instant wired internet access without complicated setup.
  • 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲- Works seamlessly with most USB-C devices, including MacBook Pro/Air, iPad Pro, Dell XPS, Surface Laptop, Chromebook, and more—making it a versatile network upgrade for home, office, or on-the-go use.

It still will not connect

  • Restart both phones and install available operating-system updates.

  • If the iPhone is an iPhone 12 or later, Apple recommends trying Settings > Personal Hotspot > Maximize Compatibility.

    Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  • Use Reset Network Settings only as a later troubleshooting step. Apple notes that this also removes saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords and resets cellular settings and previously used VPN/APN settings. See Apple’s Personal Hotspot troubleshooting instructions before choosing it.

    Best Value
    Sale
    uni USB C to Ethernet Adapter 1Gbps, Driver Free RJ45 to USB C for Laptop
    • 【1Gbps LAN to USB-C Adapter】Obtain stable connection speeds up to 1Gbps; downward compatible with 100Mbps/10Mbps networks. Our Type-C to LAN Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) Network Adapter supports large downloads at maximum speeds without interruption. (To reach 1Gbps, make sure to use CAT6 & up Ethernet cables.)
    • 【Reliable & Endurance Connectivity】Designed specifically for plug-and-play connection between USB-C devices and wired network, provides gigabit ethernet connectivity even when wireless connectivity is Inconsistent or over extended.
    • 【Thoughtful Design】Compact and lightweight, with a user-friendly non-slip design for easier plugging and unplugging. Braided nylon cable for extra durability. Premium aluminum casing for better heat dissipation. High-quality USB-C connector provides snug connection with your devices for stable signal transfer. Design to make it easy to connect USB peripherals without blocking adjacent USB-C ports
    • 【Wide Compatibility】Compatible with iPhone 15/16 Pro/Max, MacBook Pro 16''/15” (2023/2022/2021/2020/2019/2018/2017), MacBook (2019/2018/2017), MacBook Air 13” (2022/2018), iPad Pro (2022/2020/2018); XPS 13/15/17; Surface Book 2; Google Pixelbook, Chromebook, Pixel, Pixel 2; Asus ZenBook. Compatible with Samsung S20/S10/S9/S8/S8+, Note 8/9, Galaxy Tablet Tab A 10.5, and many other USB-C laptops, tablets, and smartphones. (NOT compatible with Nintendo Switch.)
    • 【What You Get】 USB C to Ethernet Adapter 1 pack, An effortless 18-month 𝗐𝖺𝗋𝗋𝖺𝗇𝗍𝗒 and 24/7 professional customer service. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with us, we solve most issues within 12 hours. Please rest assured we stand behind our products and customers.

Personal Hotspot is missing or will not turn on

Hotspot availability depends on the wireless carrier and plan. Apple says, “Personal Hotspot isn’t available with all carriers. Additional fees may apply.” Contact the carrier to confirm that it supports and has enabled hotspot access for the plan, and ask about any charges.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

When to use Maximize Compatibility

Maximize Compatibility is a troubleshooting option for devices that have difficulty connecting to the default hotspot mode, not a setting every user needs to enable. On supported iPhone and iPad models, it limits the hotspot to 2.4 GHz, turns off 5 GHz and, where applicable, 6 GHz, and enforces WPA2 Personal. Apple cautions that this may reduce connected-device performance and Wi-Fi security. Its Wi-Fi security guidance explains the supported hotspot security behavior.

Setting Frequency and security When it may help Trade-off
Default Personal Hotspot mode Uses the iPhone’s supported default behavior. Use first for ordinary connections. No special compatibility change is required.
Maximize Compatibility On supported models, uses 2.4 GHz and WPA2 Personal; disables 5 GHz and, where applicable, 6 GHz. Try when a device cannot see or join the hotspot. Apple warns of possible reductions in performance and Wi-Fi security.

Data, charges, and connection limits

The setup uses the phones’ built-in Wi-Fi settings; the documented Android connection is wireless.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1
Anker USB C to Ethernet Adapter, Portable 1 Gbps Network Hub
Anker USB C to Ethernet Adapter, Portable 1 Gbps Network Hub
The Anker Advantage: Join the 65 million+ powered by our leading technology.
$25.99
Bestseller No. 3
Amazon Basics Aluminum USB-C to RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, Portable, Fast Network, Grey, 2.07 x 0.81 x 0.6 inches
Amazon Basics Aluminum USB-C to RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, Portable, Fast Network, Grey, 2.07 x 0.81 x 0.6 inches
Adapter for converting a USB 3.1 Type-C port to a RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port; Ready to use, right out of the box; no external power adapter needed
$23.99

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.