Pixel 3 mobile hotspot

[Philnomad]

A bit of background. I've been on the Unlimited plan for several years. For a bit over 2 years I used a Pixel (original) and was able to use the mobile hotspot without problem. Then my Pixel died.

I initially replaced it with a Galaxy S10e. But after a few days returned it and got a Pixel 3. Neither of these phones would allow me to activate/use the mobile hotspot. I would get an "Authentication failed" error. Since the same error appeared on 2 different phones it tells me it's not a hardware problem.

I consulted Verizon staff in store, who couldn't figure out the problem. They initially claimed my plan didn't include mobile hotspot & didn't believe I had been using it for 2 years. They only relented when I showed them my plan details which included mobile hotspot.

I tried Verizon support. Tier I ran me through the standard resets. Escalated to Tier II who did pretty much the same thing. Escalated to their "Network team" who eventually responded that I should turn on WiFi calling. Which proved they either didn't understand the issue or were too busy copy-pasting replies to care (FYI, you can't use WiFi calling & mobile hotspot at the same time. And if I had a WiFi connection available I wouldn't need the hotspot to begin with).

After a little internet searching, I went back to the store & got a new SIM card. Still getting the same error.

I don't have WiFi at my home. So I have relied on the hotspot for my internet connection for these past few years. It is EXTREMELY frustrating not having the hotspot. Does anyone have any additional suggestions?

[vzw_customer_support]

We're sorry to read that you have not been able to use your Hotspot on your Pixel 3. Are you able to use data on your device? 

PedroM_VZW

[Philnomad]

Yes. I am able to use data, voice, and text. There is a strong signal. I can even stream video to my phone. It is just the mobile hotspot that fails to authenticate.