In a network node, wireless device, or both, a method for controlling activation or deactivation of a small cell activity of a portable multi-purpose wireless device in a wireless communications network may include determining a geographic location of a portable multi-purpose wireless device. The device may be capable of two or more different states of small cell activity, including an activated state, a deactivated state, or a latent state. The method may include controlling a current one of the two or more different states of the small-cell capability of the portable multi-purpose wireless device, based at least in part on the geographic location. The network node, the wireless device, or both may activate or deactivate the small cell activity, or place it into a latent state, based on additional factors. In addition to its small cell capabilities, the wireless device may perform user function unrelated to the wireless network.