A phone or tablet feature that has completely stopped should be checked for a disabled permission or setting before assuming hardware failure. For Android mobile hotspot, first confirm cellular works on the phone, disable VPN for one test and connect one nearby client.
What this covers
- Android mobile hotspot with this exact failure state
- Diagnosis across carrier/tethering plan versus cellular data, VPN, band and client compatibility
What it does not cover
Try in this order
0 of 4 completedCapture the exact failure state
ReversibleCheck whether the feature is grayed out, missing from settings entirely, or present but unresponsive when used. Expected behavior: share an eligible cellular data connection over a supported secured Wi-Fi band.
Isolate the component boundary
ReversibleConfirm cellular works on the phone, disable VPN for one test and connect one nearby client. Test the same feature in a different app that uses it, and with recently installed apps disabled or in Safe Mode. Boundary to separate: carrier/tethering plan versus cellular data, VPN, band and client compatibility.
Correct only the proven cause
ReversibleCorrect the carrier setting, band compatibility or client network profile. Re-enable the permission or setting, or update/reinstall the one app where it fails.
Verify and stop safely
ReversibleConfirm the feature works from a cold restart in at least two different apps. Do not use open security or overheat the phone under prolonged tethering.
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Exact questions