December 10, 2008 Mobile Internet access is the next step along the road to the ubiquitous Internet and Novatel Wireless are hoping their new MiFi product line proves a vital stepping stone in hastening our trip along that road. The MiFi product line enables users to access high-speed Internet from anywhere there is a cellular connection, including moving vehicles where multiple passengers may need Internet access.
Unlike existing router solutions that require an external broadband modem and serve only to provide connectivity, the MiFi line creates a personal cloud of high-speed Internet connectivity that can be easily shared between multiple users and Wi-Fi devices such as laptops, cameras, gaming devices and multimedia players.
Novatel says the MiFi line represents the industry’s first Intelligent Mobile Hotspot, a new category of mobile broadband that lets users put their world of content, services and connectivity in their pocket. Certain MiFi configurations support applications such as auto VPN, automatic syncing of email and optional remote management capabilities for the enterprise IT manager. With MiFi, consumers can consolidate and personalize their mobile Internet services through a landing page whether they are at home, in the car or on the go, while for the wireless operator, the MiFi landing page provides a window to the user to offer additional content and services.
The pocket-sized device features an internal battery providing over forty hours standby and up to four hours of active use on a single charge. There is no word on pricing as yet, but the MiFi line of Intelligent Mobile Hotspots are expected be commercially available in January 2009.
