Why No 3G Tethering On The iPhone?

Apple usually is at the forefront of wireless so it took me by surprise that Apple didn't have the 3G Bluetooth tethering feature in the new iPhone.

Let's look at their "wireless" history.

They were the first to embed Bluetooth into desktop and laptop computers with any consistency where access and connectivity was made easy.

The same applies to 802.11 B, G and now N.

But when it comes to 3G connectivity via a tethered approach, something that can be done on Windows Mobile, Nokia and Motorola handsets and devices out for more than a few years and use them as 3G modems, the new Apple iPhone leaves everyone who loves their iPhone having to get a data card as well to use their Air's, Pros and Books when WiFi isn't around.

This leads one to the conclusion that Apple is playing the a game with the mobile operators as part of their trojan horse approach of being very carrier friendly, but also makes me think they may be the first WiMax ready, so called 4G embeded laptop this fall.