Novatel Wireless on Tuesday unveiled a line of what it calls Intelligent Mobile Hotspots, or MiFi, modems. With the MiFi line, Novatel hopes to drive a new ecosystem of broadband connectivity.
Novatel’s solution works differently than 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 shared between multiple users and Wi-Fi devices such as laptops, cameras, gaming devices, and multimedia players.
According to Novatel, MiFi products are capable of hosting advanced software applications and are flexible enough to address the continued evolution of mobile broadband.
The Carrier Advantage
“Our carrier partners will now be able to provide new wireless solutions and bundles for consumer and enterprise users,” said Peter Leparulo, chairman and CEO of Novatel. “This will contribute to the continued growth of the addressable broadband market and create a unique opportunity for carriers to generate additional revenue per user through the deployment of innovative value-add applications and services.”
The MiFi modems feature an internal battery that provides more than 40 hours of standby power and up to four hours of active use per charge. The modems allow users to access high-speed Internet from anywhere there is a cellular connection, including moving vehicles where multiple passengers may need Internet access.
“Mobile broadband is evolving, and with the large number of Wi-Fi-enabled electronic devices coming to market, there is a growing consumer need for Internet-ready devices and applications to stay connected while on the go,” said Christopher Collins, senior analyst with the Yankee Group.
Solving a Discreet Problem
With MiFi, consumers can consolidate and personalize their mobile Internet services through a landing page whether at home, in the car, or on the go, according to Novatel. For the wireless operator, the MiFi landing page provides a window to the…