I’m not sure about using the iPad as “your only cellphone”, I mean it is large and you’d always have to use a headset. And like I said: I’ve never used Skype, so I can’t comment on how well it would work on this device for what you are envisioning.
As for proxy. If you’re in an office environment where your network is using a proxy server, yes it does support an HTTP proxy, so does the iPhone. Its configured in network settings But in a straight network environment, it’s not needed. I’m using mine on my home network just fine. For 3G, you’re on the cellular data network and proxy isn’t required there. I guess I’m not sure exactly what your asking here.
Oh wait, I just re read. You’re talking about “tethering”. Tethering is where the iPad would act as your ISP connection for another machine. That machine could even act as a bridge to a home network router for another machines.
No, that isn’t supported. I’ve heard it is, or was going to be enabled in Europe, it was supposed to be enabled in the US last year but it wasn’t. They’re going to announce iPhone OS 4 today, maybe it will, maybe it won’t include tethering. I wouldn’t hold my breath.
On the other hand, I suppose it could be a viable replacement as long as the iPad was your only Internet device. And $30 is a lot cheaper than $90.
Yes, that’s what I was asking — running a proxy SERVER on the iPad so other machines on your home LAN could access the internet via the 3G connection in the iPad.
As far as phone use goes, I guess I am unusual. I don’t feel compelled to have a phone with me all the time. I call or get calls maybe a dozen times a month, and paying $43 to Verizon for the privilege is really a waste. I currently do carry a cellphone all the time, but then again I also always have a book with me. So it’s not like carrying the iPad would encumber me any more than my usual routine.