There was much happiness back on February 12th, when Sprint’s list of Palm Pre technical specifications indicated that the handset could be used as a tethered modem.  Now Sprint have  changed their listings, removing any reference to tethering and leading us to assume that the handset will not, at least initially, be allowed to act as a modem for your laptop.

The Sprint specifications now have a “Connector” listing that reads “Micro USB connector with USB 2.0 Hi-Speed”.  Previously the section was called “Phone as Modem”, and read “Bluetooth tethering connector Micro USB connector with USB 2.0″.

The change will come as a blow for many, who were hoping to use Sprint’s EV-DO Rev.A network to not only access the internet on their Pre but also on their notebook, without requiring a standalone USB modem.  There’s still the possibility that Sprint might reverse the decision; it could be that they’re trying to minimize network stress when the Palm Pre launches. 

[via Engadget]