I am in an area where the Wi-Fi signal is marginal. Works 95% of the time. I would like to connect my iPad via my iPhone hotspot even when the Wi-Fi signal is available, so I don't get a dropout when the Wi-Fi hiccups. How do I force a hotspot connection even when the Wi-Fi is available?
[Re-Titled by Moderator]
iPad Pro, iPadOS 18
Check that you have correctly configured your iPhone hotspot:
How to set up a Personal Hotspot on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
On your iPad, for WiFi networks that you have already configured a connection, ensure that you disable auto-join for each of the WiFI networks that you do not wish to automatically join:
Settings > WiFi > [WiFi Network / SSID] - tap the “i” icon - set Auto-Join to OFF
Also ensure that you have enabled Auto-Join Hotspot:
Settings > WiFi > Auto-Join Hotspot - set to Automatic
In some circumstances it may take several seconds to [re]detect your iPhone, in particular if they have been separated (out-of-range) of each other - such as leaving your iPad at home while out and about with your iPhone.
Until the iPhone has been detected, the iPad will cannot "instantly" reconnect with the iPhone's hotspot.
Ensure that you have enabled Auto-Join Hotspot:
Settings > WiFi > Auto-Join Hotspot - set to Automatic
The setting is currently incorrect.
Auto connect is off for my Wi-Fi network and auto connect is on for hotspot. Whether the hotspot shows is a random event. Have not figured out the scenario where it does show. I am connecting two devices and have been able to do this at least once. Ideas?
Please see the attached screen shot. Sometimes the 'Personal Hotspots' shows up and at other times it does not. Why is this happening?
I used the FindMy devices on the iPad and that seemed to trigger the ability of the iPad to see the iPhone. Thanks for the tip.
How can I force my iPad to use iPhone Hotspot?
