Novatel Connects MiFi From Internet Cloud To Wireless Devices

By: Mary Couchman
Staff Writer
Published: Dec 9, 2008

Novatel has announced a new mobile hotspot modem called the MiFi. The new MiFi product has a built-in processor and runs on the Linux operating system. Users can create a personal cloud of high-speed Internet connectivity that can be shared across Wi-Fi gadgets.

Novatel Wireless Inc on Tuesday revealed a new mobile hotspot product called the MiFi. The MiFi connects other devices in a cloud shared environment and integrates a 3G modem, router, and embedded Linux based operating system.

The MiFi is a clever product because it eliminates all the hassles of configuring 3G connections and WiFi routers. It comes with a built-in processor and runs on the Linux operating system.

MiFi users can create a personal cloud of broadband Internet connectivity that can be used to share across Wi-Fi devices.

For example, a person can use MiFi to create a personal cloud of high-speed Internet connectivity. The cloud can then be shared among multiple users and wireless devices such as laptops, camera, gaming portables and multiple players.

"I could take MiFi over to my grandma's house and have it beam pictures over to the WiFi-enabled digital picture frame I gave her," Novatel chief marketing officer Rob Hadley said in a statement. "I want to have an application for MiFi where, when I'm traveling, it alerts me to changes in gate information," he added.

The personal MiFi also comprises various tools including Internet security, VPNs, and drivers for devices. It also comes with applications that allows users to auto-sync their e-mails. MiFi uses its own MicroSD storage card to cache e-mail transmissions that can later download to a laptop or a PC.

On the disadvantage, the MiFi has limited support. It will initially support EVDO A and HSDPA which are the larger technologies in the United States.

Wireless carriers might offer the product to merge new services for connectivity and e-mail. The MiFi will cost under $200 and will ship in early 2009.