For those not familiar, DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is a standard used to share content with other devices on a home network. By adding DLNA support to the MiFi 2372, users can now stream content on the microSD card to any other DLNA device in the home. This would include streaming movies, music, or photos. Many household devices can be purchased with DLNA, not just PC’s and laptops. Many TVs, smartphones, and tablets come with a DLNA option.

Anyone that already has an AT&T MiFi 2372 simply needs to update their software to take advantage of the new functionality. The new DLNA is not really a game changer, it is adding additional value to the product offering. If you are considering a mobile hotspot, DLNA compatibility may be worth considering. If all your appliances and electronics are from 1989, then you might not be too worried about DLNA compatibility.

[via Bgr]

As you can tell, that’s a pretty basic set of features Novatel has now claimed control over: there isn’t a mobile hotspot out there which doesn’t do the same. It’s unclear at this stage whether the patent would also cover software hotspot functionality, increasingly popular on Android and iOS smartphones at present, where the cellular connection of a phone is shared via the handset’s WiFi radio.

Novatel sued ZTE and Franklin Wireless back in December over alleged mobile hotspot patent infringement, and has also had trademark run-ins over use of the “MiFi” name. This latest patent looks like to prompt another round of litigation, with Novatel maintaining that it created the mobile hotspot category.

Update: We asked Novatel Wireless about the possibility of the patent covering software hotspots, and CMO Rob Hadley gave us the following statement:

“We expect this pioneering patent may apply most directly to hardware mobile hotspots. Architectures vary between both hardware and software hotspots so practically speaking, it would take further investigation to determine the patent overlap with software hotspots.”

[Thanks George!]

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Granted Key Patent on Intelligent Mobile Hotspot Products

SAN DIEGO, June 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Novatel Wireless, Inc. (Nasdaq: NVTL), a leading provider of wireless broadband access solutions, today announced that it has been granted U.S. Patent No. 7,944,901 entitled “Systems and methods for automatic connection with a wireless network,” a core invention that Intelligent Mobile HotSpot products currently make use of. The patent was issued on May 17th 2011 by the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

“We are very pleased to receive this pioneer patent for the Intelligent Mobile Hotspot, a product category Novatel Wireless invented more than two years ago,” said CTO of Novatel Wireless, Dr. Slim Souissi. “We continue to expand our leadership with our 3G and 4G MiFi® family of products and this patent further strengthens our IPR portfolio and illustrates our commitment to on-going research and innovation in the wireless industry,” Dr. Souissi continued.

Novatel Wireless currently holds 35 issued or allowed U.S. patents and 34 filed U.S. patent applications, some of which it holds or has filed for in additional patent jurisdictions as well.

Verizon had promised a free 4G update for the XOOM when it launched the 3G version of the slate earlier in the year. At the time, though, no 4G miniPCI modems certified for the LTE network were available, something which has obviously now changed with the advent of this new card.

As well as LTE there’s quadband HSPA+ and GPS support, though which of those capabilities Verizon might leave turned on remains to be seen. Even if it doesn’t find its way into the XOOM, expect notebooks and tablets using the Novatel card to reach the market sooner rather than later.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Embedded LTE Module First to Receive Certification for
Commercial Use on Verizon Wireless 4G Network

SAN DIEGO ­ May 19, 2011 ­ Novatel Wireless (NASDAQ: NVTL), a leading
provider of wireless broadband solutions, today announced that it has
received technical approval for its Expedite E362 4G LTE embedded module to
run on the Verizon Wireless LTE network.

Novatel Wireless is the first provider to have an embedded LTE solution
commercially available and compatible with the Verizon Wireless network.
Novatel Wireless embedded modules portfolio provides innovative solutions to
integrate high-speed data connectivity into notebooks, netbooks, tablets and
other portable entertainment devices.
³We¹re proud to cross this milestone with our leading next-generation 4G LTE
embedded module,² says Rob Hadley, CMO of Novatel Wireless. ³To meet
consumers¹ desire to be connected anywhere, anytime, we are actively engaged
in integrating our 4G embedded modules into platform launches with a number
of devices and notebook manufacturers as they roll-out next-generation
enabled mobile broadband devices.²
Developing on the proven performance of the Expedite product line, Novatel
Wireless¹ Expedite E362 LTE embedded module is optimized for power
efficiency, thermal performance and weight. Additional key features include
Novatel Wireless¹ proven Connection Manager ­ Mobilink 3 – supporting
Windows 7, Vista and XP as well as software support for OEM tablet and
notebook integration with both Windows drivers and Android RIL (from Froyo
to Honeycomb). The Expedite E362 is capable of multimode support for LTE and
backward compatibility to existing 2G and 3G GSM and CDMA networks.

ABOUT NOVATEL WIRELESS
Novatel Wireless, Inc. is a leader in the design and development of
intelligent wireless solutions based on 2G, 3G and 4G technologies providing
wireless connectivity. The company delivers specialized wireless solutions
to carriers, distributors, retailers, OEMs and vertical markets worldwide.
Novatel Wireless’ Intelligent Mobile Hotspot products, software, USB modems,
embedded modules and smart M2M modules provide innovative anywhere, anytime
communications solutions for consumers and enterprises. Headquartered in San
Diego, California, Novatel Wireless is listed on NASDAQ: NVTL. For more
information please visit www.nvtl.com. (NVTLG)

The Novatel 4G/3G MiFi 4082 mobile hotspot device used by Comcast isn’t your typical hotspot. It comes with software preloaded so that there is no installation required and it features an e-ink display to show battery status, signal, and number of connected devices, as it can connect up to five. It also has a MicroSD slot for an up to 32GB memory card. The hotspot is also sleek and small, about the size of a credit card.

As the Comcast XFINITY Internet 2go, the device will cost only $25 to purchase. The monthly plan will cost you about $40 per month for the first 12 months, after which it goes to $55 per month. This is still much lower than what’s offered by competing services such as Sprint and Verizon. But do note, that nationwide coverage is 3G, with only select areas able to enjoy 4G speeds. So, to find out if you’re in one of the lucky areas, check out this map.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless MiFi 4082 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot Now Available Through
Comcast

SAN DIEGO ­ May 6, 2011 ­ Novatel Wireless, Inc. (Nasdaq:NVTL), a leading
provider of wireless broadband access solutions, today announced that its
new MiFi® 4082 is available to purchase through Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq:
CMCSA, CMCSK), one of the nation¹s leading providers of entertainment,
information and communication products and services. Novatel Wireless will
supply its MiFi® 4082 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot and support Comcast as the
company continues its nationwide rollout of Xfinity® Internet 2go. The MiFi
4082 is commercially available through Comcast¹s website:
www.comcast.com/2go and will be offered to new Xfinity Internet 2go
customers for a $25 one-time fee with a qualifying Xfinity Internet 2go
service plan.

³We¹re excited to assist Comcast in rolling out their next generation
Xfinity Internet 2go 4G/3G Mobile Hotspot device, perfect for watching TV
and movies on-the-go,² said Rob Hadley, CMO of Novatel Wireless. ³The new
MiFi 4082 delivers 4G speeds and complements Comcast¹s broad connectivity
and entertainment offering perfectly, providing innovative services ­ not
only for the home but now also on-the-go².

The MiFi 4082 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot is the newest version of the
award-winning MiFi family of products ­ bringing 4G WiMAX to consumers with
one-touch connectivity for up to five Wi-Fi enabled devices.

The MiFi 4082 device comes preloaded with MiFi OS , widgets and application
support, offering customers capabilities beyond just Internet connectivity.
It also features an external e-Ink display with status indicators for
battery, signal strength and number of connected devices. The device also
features shared storage capability through a microSD slot with up to 32GB.

Delivering industry-leading performance and best-in-class session continuity
between 4G and 3G, the award-winning MiFi 4082 Mobile Hotspot requires no
cables or software installation and easily supports all the needs of a
family household, a frequent traveler who wants to avoid Wi-Fi charges, or
even a small business team in a form factor about the size of a credit card.

FEATURES:
- Intuitive eInk display with status indicators for battery, signal and the
number of connected devices
- Browser user interface for configuration
- MicroSD slot for up to 32GB memory card
- Supports Windows, Macintosh and Linux operating systems
- Datalink 3G/4G
- No software required for Wi-Fi connection
- Battery: 1500mAh ­ over four hours of usage; 60 hours of standby time
- Weight: 85 grams with battery (3 oz.)
- Antenna: Integrated Wi-Fi antenna
- Wireless Connectivity: 802.11b/g/n

Visit www.comcast.com/2go for additional information, pricing plans and
service packages.

ABOUT NOVATEL WIRELESS
Novatel Wireless, Inc. is a leader in the design and development of
intelligent wireless solutions based on 2G, 3G and 4G technologies providing
wireless connectivity. The Company delivers specialized wireless solutions
to carriers, distributors, retailers, OEMs and vertical markets worldwide.
Novatel Wireless’ Intelligent Mobile Hotspot products, software, USB modems,
embedded modules and smart M2M modules provide innovative anywhere, anytime
communications solutions for consumers and enterprises. Headquartered in San
Diego, California, Novatel Wireless is listed on NASDAQ: NVTL. For more
information please visit www.novatelwireless.com. (NVTLG)

The 4510L has a WiFi b/g/n radio and an E Ink display to show network and wireless status along with battery life. Novatel reckons a full charge is good for up to 5hrs of active use, and there’s WEP/WPA/WPA2 and VPN pass-through support along with backward compatibility with 3G EVDO Rev.A networks.

In all, Verizon is saying LTE coverage should lead to 5 to 12 Mbps downloads and 2 to 5 Mbps uploads. The Verizon MiFi 4510L 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot is available online today, and in-store from April 21.

Press Release:

The MiFi® 4510L 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot Available On The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Network Beginning April 18

04/18/2011

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Verizon Wireless and Novatel Wireless (NASDAQ: NVTL) today announced that the award winning MiFi® 4510L 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot that runs on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network is available online today at www.verizonwireless.com. The MiFi 4510L 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot is the next-generation of the Novatel Wireless MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot, building on innovation and design, proven performance and industry-leading user experience.

The MiFi 4510L allows businesses and consumers to create a personal Wi-Fi cloud capable of sharing the high-speed Internet connectivity of the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE and 3G Mobile Broadband with up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices simultaneously. The 4G LTE MiFi 4510L includes new features, such as an intuitive status display on the device showing signal strength, battery level, roaming and number of connected devices.

Key features:

4G LTE – customers can expect download speeds of 5 to 12 Mbps and upload speeds of 2 to 5 Mbps in 4G Mobile Broadband coverage areas
Backward compatible with the Verizon Wireless 3G network
Simple one-touch connectivity
Intuitive eInk® display with status indicators
Security: WEP/WPA/WPA2 and VPN pass-through support
Supports Windows, Macintosh and Linux operating systems
Advanced integrated antenna technology
Battery: up to 5 hours usage
WiFi connectivity: 802.11b/g/n
Dimensions: 3.74”(H) x 2.36”(W) x 0.53”(D)
Pricing and availability:

The 4G LTE MiFi 4510L is available today online at www.verizonwireless.com and will be in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores on April 21 for $99.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement on a 4G Mobile Broadband plan.
4G LTE Mobile Broadband plans begin at $50 monthly access for 5GB. Customers will receive the rebate in the form of a debit card; upon receipt, customers may use the card as cash anywhere debit cards are accepted. Data usage can be tracked by logging on to My Verizon online at www.verizonwireless.com/myverizon.
The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network, launched in December 2010, is the fastest, most advanced 4G network in the United States, providing speeds up to 10 times faster than Verizon Wireless’ 3G network. Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE Mobile Broadband network currently reaches one-third of all Americans, with plans to expand the network to the company’s entire 3G coverage area over the next three years.

For more information on the MiFi 4510L 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot or other Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.

That media could be music – bypassing limited space on cellphones – or it could include photos or video; Novatel suggests shooting video on a phone then switching the microSD card into the MiFi so that multiple viewers could access it. More on the MiFi 2372 in the full SlashGear review.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless MiFi® DLNA Server Receives Certification for Seamlessly
Sharing of Digital Media Across Multiple Platforms

SAN DIEGO ­March 21, 2011 ­ Novatel Wireless (NASDAQ: NVTL), a leading
provider of wireless broadband solutions, today announced that it has been
granted certification from the Digital Living Network Alliance® (DLNA) for
its MiFi® 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot.
The MiFi DLNA® Server resides on the MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot
and runs on the MiFi OS as an application to provide simple, hassle-free
media sharing. The MiFi DLNA Server enables users to browse, play and share
movies, music and photos anywhere, anytime, on any DLNA-compatible device.
Users effortlessly access their media stored on a microSDHC card inserted
in the MiFi device, stream to their screen of choice, and enjoy.
³The DLNA CERTIFIED® MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot improves the end
user experience by allowing mobile access to a users personal content such
as video, music or pictures and allowing that content to be shared across
multiple devices,² said Rob Hadley, CMO of Novatel Wireless. ² We are
excited to see the rapid adoption of DLNA Certified devices and believe our
MiFi DLNA Server is a great application to empower consumers to share and
communicate anywhere with industry leading ease-of-use².

The MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot will be the first DLNA Certified®
device commercially available. AT&T will be the first wireless carrier to
offer this service with the MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot.

The MiFi DLNA Server enables seamless access to digital content on
DLNA-compatible DVD and Blu-Ray players, game consoles, televisions,
tablets, mobile devices, computers, audio video systems, digital frames,
home theater devices and more. The MiFi DLNA server makes it easy to share
both user-generated and syndicated digital content without complicated
configuration and without having to copy, move and synch media files on
multiple devices.
User scenarios with the MiFi DLNA Server include:
€ Stream movies to your laptop and/or watch directly on your living room TV
€ Listen to music stored on a microSDHC card on your home sound system
€ In the van, let the kids watch one video on a Galaxy Tab® and another on
an iPod Touch®
€ Share vacation photos on the grandparents¹ TV using their Blu-Ray® player
€ Film the wedding reception, slip the microSDHC card into the MiFi device,
and share the movie instantly on an iPad®
According to ABI Research there were more than 440 million DLNA Certified
devices already installed in users¹ homes at the end of 2010. ABI Research
estimates there will be nearly two billion DLNA Certified devices in homes
worldwide by 2014.
Novatel Wireless will demonstrate its MiFi® 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot
with its MiFi DLNA Server at CTIA Wireless in Orlando on March 22-24, 2011
at booth #3416.

Hardware

There’s not a huge amount of difference between the MiFi 2372 and the original GSM MiFi 2352 we reviewed a couple of years ago. Inside the small, glossy box – 2.44 x 3.86 x 0.60 inches and 2.86 oz – is a UMTS/HSPA modem good for up to 7.2Mbps downlinks and 5.76Mbps uplinks on AT&T’s 3G network, together with a WiFi b/g router that shares out that connection between up to five other devices. That might be an iPad, a notebook, a portable games console or even a phone; basically, as long as your gadget has WiFi it should be able to get online via the MiFi.

Unlike the original CDMA MiFi units, the AT&T version also gets GPS functionality and a microSDHC card slot, the contents of which can be accessed by any of the WiFi-connected clients. It basically turns the hotspot into a tiny, portable NAS. Finally, there’s a rechargeable, replaceable 1,500 mAh battery, which AT&T reckon is good for up to 4hrs use, and a microUSB port to recharge it.

Software

While many of the mobile hotspots we’ve seen of late have included small displays to show network, battery and device status, the MiFi 2372 falls short of that complexity. Instead, the power button changes color to indicate connectivity and battery status; green, for instance, means it can only connect at GRPS or EDGE speeds, while blue or violet mean UMTS or HSPA is available. A second LED shows WiFi status.

To make up for that shortcoming, there’s an AT&T-branded landing page hosted by the MiFi itself, and accessible by visiting http://att.mifi on a WiFi-connected device (the default SSID and network key are printed on a label on the underside of the unit). The default “guest” page shows battery, network and GPS status, along with customizable widgets for things like weather forecasts (based on GPS position or your choice of location) and a geographic search with Google Maps powered data.

Log into the admin area and there are more widgets and access to the MiFi’s settings – things like changing the admin password, SSID, encryption (up to WPA2) and the like – together with the ability to send and receive SMS messages. It’s a definite advance over the somewhat basic UI of the original MiFi units, though we’d like to see Novatel Wireless and AT&T expand the number of widgets on offer there’s a third-party SDK available, but so far take-up has proved underwhelming from a consumer perspective.

Performance

The exact speeds you’ll see with the MiFi 2372 will of course depend on the strength of AT&T’s network wherever you are, but we can’t really fault the Novatel hardware. Though it would be useful if it supported HSPA+ for 14.4Mbps and above, AT&T’s service at those speeds is still patchy at best. We observed download speeds ranging from 3-6 Mbps on average, while upload speeds came in at 2.5-4 Mbps.

Battery life, meanwhile, will depend in part on 3G signal strength, as well as reducing the more WiFi clients are connected. AT&T’s 4hr estimate is based on sharing the MiFi’s connection with a single device; in that situation, with 4-5 bars of service shown in the status page, we generally managed 3.5-4hrs of use before the MiFi expired. In a perhaps more realistic test with two or more clients using the connection, we were more likely to see 3hrs.

As we’ve notice on other MiFi units, the 2372 did show a tendency to reset itself – kicking us off the network in the process – if it got hot, usually a side-effect of simultaneously charging and using the MiFi at once. Leaving it to cool down for a few minutes fixed the problem.

Pricing

AT&T offer two ways of picking up the MiFi 2372, either on a new, two-year agreement at $49.99, or without a contract for $299.99. Either way, data plans are $35 for 200MB or $60 for 5GB, with each extra MB costing $0.10. There’s a dashboard widget which will keep a running total of how much data you’ve used.

The 200MB plan is likely to be insufficient for most users, which leaves the $60 5GB as the probable choice. In contrast, AT&T offers smartphone users 2GB of data for on-device and tethering use for $45 per month, with each additional 1GB priced at $10. Use your iPhone 4 or Android device as a mobile hotspot, then, and it would cost you $75 for the same 5GB (on top of your regular voice plan).

Wrap-Up

There’s no denying that a mobile hotspot is more useful on the move than a USB modem, with greater flexibility on what devices can take advantage of the connection. However, AT&T’s data fees do mean that it can work out as an expensive way to get online; it’s worth doing some basic calculations to see whether 3G-enabled versions of devices (like the iPad WiFi + 3G) will work out cheaper. We’d also recommend stumping for the off-contract MiFi, which while more expensive upfront does at least mean you can choose to cancel service the months you don’t need it.

The absence of HSPA+ support and sub-4hr battery life are the key flaws of the MiFi 2372, but they’re not unusual among mobile hotspots. The bigger challenge will be 4G hotspots, though you’d obviously need to live or work in an area served by 4G coverage to make the most of them, and battery life can be worse than for their 3G counterparts. A boosted battery would go a long way to improving the MiFI 2372, but the surprisingly useful microSDHC sharing and widget dashboard do mark it out among the competition. Just make sure you’ve worked out the numbers first to see if AT&T’s plans do offer the best package for your needs.

The MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot is of course that little device that lets you simply press a button and be inside a personal cloud of high-speed internet for your notebook or other compatible mobile devices. Rob Hadley, CMO, Novatel Wireless notes “Notebooks.com, the WCA and Mobile Village are widely recognized as some of the most trusted awards programs in the industry and
it is an honor to be named a winner.” Take a peek at the full press release below:

Novatel Wireless 4G MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspots Honored with CES 2011
Best in Show Award from Notebooks.com

Recent Industry Accolades Also Include World Communication and Mobile Star Awards

SAN DIEGO – Jan. 18, 2011 – Novatel Wireless (NASDAQ: NVTL), a leading provider of wireless broadband solutions, today announced that its new 4G MiFi→ Intelligent Mobile Hotspots were chosen as the Best Notebook Accessory at CES 2011 by Notebooks.com. This award adds to the growing list of industry accolades for the MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot platform, which recently also garnered the 2010 World Communication Award (WCA) for Best Mobile Device Strategy and the Mobile Village Mobile Star Award for Best Laptop or Tablet Accessory.

The MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot is the industry leading dedicated mobile data device. The user-experience is a key element in the MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot’s worldwide success. With the touch of a button, the MiFi creates a personal cloud of high-speed Internet connectivity that can be easily shared between multiple users and up to five Wi-Fi devices such as laptops, tablets, gaming devices and multimedia players.  Unlike any other device, the MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot is optimized for mobile data and ease-of-use, with dedicated and uninterrupted data sessions, optimized power management for data users, and advanced integrated antenna technology for maximum performance.

The MiFi platform, now with 4G mobile broadband speeds, serves as an intelligent, open platform built on the MiFi OS with a browser based web user interface, capable of hosting advanced software applications and flexible enough to address the continued evolution of mobile broadband.

“This industry recognition highlights the unrivaled functionality, flexibility and great user experience associated with the MiFi brand, as well as Novatel Wireless’ ongoing commitment to delivering the most innovative mobile broadband solutions to our customers,” said Rob Hadley, CMO, Novatel Wireless. “Notebooks.com, the WCA and Mobile Village are widely recognized as some of the most trusted awards programs in the industry and it is an honor to be named a winner.”

ABOUT NOVATEL WIRELESS
Novatel Wireless, Inc. is a leader in the design and development of intelligent wireless solutions based on 2G, 3G and 4G technologies providing wireless connectivity.  The Company delivers specialized wireless solutions to carriers, distributors, retailers, OEMs and vertical markets worldwide. Novatel Wireless’ Intelligent Mobile Hotspot products, software, USB modems, embedded modules and smart M2M modules provide innovative anywhere, anytime communications solutions for consumers and enterprises. Headquartered in San
Diego, California, Novatel Wireless is listed on NASDAQ: NVTL. For more
information please visit www.novatelwireless.com. (NVTLG)

This release may contain forward-looking statements, which are made pursuant
to the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended to date.  These forward-looking
statements involve risks and uncertainties.  A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements contained herein.  These factors include risks relating to technological changes, new product introductions, continued acceptance of Novatel Wireless’ products and dependence on intellectual property rights.  These factors, as well as other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, are discussed in more detail in Novatel Wireless’ filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at www.sec.gov) and other regulatory agencies.

(C) 2010 Novatel Wireless, Inc.  All rights reserved.  The Novatel Wireless name and logo, Ovation™, Mobilink™ and MiFi® are trademarks of Novatel Wireless, Inc.  Other Company, product or service names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

The Sprint HTC EVO Shift 4G has a 3.6-inch capacitive touchscreen, slide-out QWERTY keyboard, 5-megapixel camera, 720p HD video recording and runs Android 2.2 with HTC Sense. It also offers Sprint Mobile Hotspot, with support for up to eight connected clients.

As for the MiFi, that supports up to five WiFi-connected clients and has a battery good for up to 4hrs of active use or 60hrs of standby. It also gets a microSD slot, good for up to 32GB cards, which can be used to share files with all connected users.

Press Release:

Sprint’s 4G Leadership Extends into 2011 with Introduction of Second Generation of Industry-Leading 4G-Capable Devices

HTC EVO Shift 4G with slide-out QWERTY available exclusively from Sprint on Jan. 9 for $149.99; MiFi® 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot by Novatel Wireless debuts on Feb. 27 for $49.99, bringing Sprint 4G connectivity to up to five Wi-Fi enabled devices

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (BUSINESS WIRE), January 04, 2011 – As the first national wireless carrier to launch 4G in 2008, Sprint (NYSE:S) wrapped up 2010 with a lead in 4G wireless device innovations. Further extending that lead, the company today introduced the upcoming availability of two products in Sprint’s second generation of 4G-capable devices: HTC EVO Shift™ 4G and MiFi® 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot by Novatel Wireless. With these two devices, Sprint has now introduced 17 4G-capable devices for consumers and business, including three phones, a 4G netbook and notebook from Dell, numerous USB modem options, and several mobile hotspots and routers.

“Sprint will continue to set the bar for feature-rich and customer-friendly 4G devices into 2011,” said Dan Hesse, Sprint CEO. “Our proven leadership as a 4G pioneer has allowed our customers to enjoy 4G from Sprint first, and these new products exemplify Sprint’s commitment to put industry-leading performance and capabilities in the hands of our customers.”

A Feature-Rich 4G Phone with QWERTY

As the 16th 4G-capable device from Sprint, HTC EVO Shift follows in the footsteps of the award-winning HTC EVO™ 4G, bringing customers an attractive, compact design and an impressive list of features with the addition of a sliding QWERTY keyboard. Beyond the highly acclaimed HTC Sense user experience, HTC EVO Shift also boasts the power of 4G, Android 2.2™, a 5MP camera, 720p HD camcorder and a 3.6-inch capacitive touchscreen display with pinch-to-zoom capability.

Additional key features include:

HD Video Recording
Wi-Fi®
Sprint Mobile Hotspot (supporting up to eight Wi-Fi enabled devices)
Android Market™ with access to more than 100,000 apps
Messaging – Personal and business e-mail, IM and text messaging
Social Networking Integration – Facebook®, Twitter™, Flickr® and more
Visual Voicemail
Google™ Mobile Services, including YouTube™, Gmail™, Google Talk™, Google Voice™ and Google Maps™
GPS Navigation
Stereo Bluetooth® wireless technology
microSD slot (supporting up to 32GB memory card)
The Web browser on HTC EVO Shift is optimized for convenient mobile use and a full Internet experience with functions like pinch-to-zoom and automatically reflowing text. Adobe Flash technology ensures that rich Internet content, such as embedded video and animation, are displayed the way they are meant to be seen. The slide-out QWERTY keyboard makes staying in touch with friends and family through messaging and social networking quick and easy.

Priced at the lowest cost at launch for any current 4G phone, HTC EVO Shift will be just $149.99 (excluding taxes) after a $100 mail-in rebate and activation on a new two-year service agreement (or eligible upgrade), and activation on a data plan with the required $10 Premium Data Add-On. It will be available in all Sprint retail channels, including www.sprint.com and 1-800-Sprint1, on Jan. 9. For more information, visit www.sprint.com/shift.

Big on Power, Small on Size

With the unveiling of Novatel Wireless’ (NASDAQ: NVTL) ultra-compact MiFi® 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot, Sprint brings customers the portability of the MiFi design with one-touch connectivity for up to five Wi-Fi enabled devices, including tablets, eReaders, laptops or gaming consoles. Delivering a true wireless experience with no cables or software installation required, MiFi 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot has battery life of up to four hours of usage and 60 hours of standby time. MiFi 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot easily supports all the needs of a family household, a frequent traveler who wants to avoid Wi-Fi charges, or even a small business team with a form factor about the size of a credit card.

MiFi 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot’s predecessor, 3G MiFi® wireless hotspot by Novatel Wireless, was one of the industry’s most popular intelligent mobile hotspots. MiFi 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot adds 4G accessibility, an external display with status indicators for battery, signal strength and number of connected devices, and shared storage capability through a MicroSD slot for up to a 32GB memory card. It supports Windows, Macintosh and Linuz operating systems.

As the 17th 4G-capable device from Sprint, MiFi 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot will be just $49.99 (excluding taxes) after a $50 mail-in rebate activation on a new two-year service agreement (or eligible upgrade). It will be available nationwide on Feb. 27 at all Sprint retail channels, including www.sprint.com and 1-800-Sprint1. Visit www.sprint.com/4Gmifi for more information.

More Options in 4G Products

Sprint already offers an extensive and impressive portfolio of 4G-enabled devices and routers. Stand-outs include Dell™ Inspiron™ Mini 10 (1012) netbook and Dell™ Inspiron™ 11z notebook, the first 3G/4G embedded devices offered by a wireless carrier in the United States. Both come pre-loaded with Windows Live Essentials 2011 and deliver 4G speeds on a mobile PC without the need for connection cards or hotspots to access the Internet.

Consumers have also been enjoying the award-winning HTC EVO 4G and Samsung Epic™ 4G, America’s first 4G-capable handsets. Both phones have received high praise from industry analysts, customers and media, including CNET, TheStreet.com, LAPTOP Magazine, POPULAR MECHANICS and PCWorld.

Business customers can take advantage of Sprint 4G technology with these devices and others, including CradlePoint MBR1200 Failsafe Gigabit N Router, which extends corporate security policies and failover technology, or CBA750 3G/4G Mobile Broadband Adapter to helps businesses stay connected during wireline outages.

The Sprint 4G portfolio of existing 4G-capable modems, mobile hotspots and routers all enhance productivity by enabling mobile downloads of large files, high-quality streaming video, online presentations and high-speed Web browsing. The advanced network also lets customers take advantage of robust applications and services, such as wireless voice-over-IP (VoIP), high-speed video telephony, music on-demand and video messaging. For a list of Sprint 4G devices, visit http://newsroom.sprint.com.

Unlimited 4G Plans With No Data Caps

Sprint customers get more with unlimited 4G data on their monthly plan, which means real simplicity and value. Sprint offers simplicity and savings vs. competitors, making it easy for customers to get the most out of their phones without worrying about costs or data usage. Sprint’s Everything Data plan with Any Mobile, AnytimeSM includes unlimited Web, texting and calling to and from any mobile in America while on the Sprint network, starting at just $69.99 per month plus required $10 Premium Data add-on for select smartphones – a savings of $39.99 per month vs. Verizon’s plan with unlimited talk, text and Web, and $35 per month vs. AT&T’s plan with unlimited talk, text and just 2GB of data.

Further, the Sprint Free Guarantee is the only full money-back guarantee on service plans in the wireless industry today, allowing customers to try a new line of service with Sprint for 30 days. If a customer isn’t completely satisfied, they can cancel service and return their device to be reimbursed for the device purchase and activation fee, get the early termination fee waived, get a full refund for monthly service plan recurring charges incurred and get all associated taxes and fees waived. In addition, Sprint will waive the restocking fee for new customer exchanges as part of this policy. Refund excludes usage not included in the service plan, premium content, third-party billing and international charges.

There’s not any real information to go on here, other than the image itself. We can see that it’s going to be able to connect to both 3G and 4G. And, we can say that it does look like a nice device. Shiny, if nothing else. With the device crossing through the FCC not too long ago, it’s certainly possible that Sprint is getting ready to show off the device at CES 2011. If that is the case, then we’ll be sure to give you as much information as we can on the device in just a few days.

[via Engadget]

It’ll be followed by a second model – codename unknown – sometime in Q2 2011. The exact hardware behind “Lil Wayne” is unknown, though it’s worth noting that Novatel Wireless already offer the MiFi 2372 with HSPA+ support on Canadian carrier Bell Mobility.

Novatel has slapped a confidentiality agreement on the juicier parts of the filing, so there are no test photos nor user guide to peruse, only the MiFi 4082 label able. Still, back in February the company was happily gloating over seeing 18Mbps throughput in their WiMAX MiFi testing, with a theoretical peak of over 30Mbps downlink and 10Mbps uplink.

Real-world speeds will obviously be lower, but the market for WiMAX mobile hotspots is still pretty scarce – Sprint’s Overdrive is the only example the carrier offers – and so if Novatel get the pricing, size and battery life right, the MiFi 4082 could still be a winner despite the amount of time its taking to get to market. Still, the company has a lot to do when it comes to pricing; Clear is offering its own WiMAX hotspots at heavily reduced prices this week.

[via Engadget]

The MiFi was first announced back in late 2008, as an easy way to share a single 3G data connection with up to five WiFi clients. It went on to inspire a number of rival devices, including 4G variants. Most recently, AT&T announced a version of Novatel’s unit that went on sale last month.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Files Patent Infringement Lawsuit Against Franklin Wireless and ZTE

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 10, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Novatel Wireless, Inc. (Nasdaq: NVTL), a provider of wireless broadband access solutions, today announced that it has filed a lawsuit against Franklin Wireless Corp., ZTE Corp. and ZTE(USA), Inc. for infringing on five Novatel Wireless’ patents related to key architecture and functionality of the MiFi® family of Intelligent Mobile Hotspots. The suit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California.

“Novatel Wireless invented the MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot and with that created a whole new product category in the wireless ecosystem,” said Peter Leparulo, Chairman and CEO of Novatel Wireless. “We’re confident that we will continue to lead the market, but competitors need to rely on their own inventions rather than infringe on ours,” Leparulo continued.

Novatel Wireless holds numerous U.S. and international key patents and patent applications around elements of the MiFi Mobile Intelligent Hotspot family of products, a new product category invented by Novatel Wireless.

Since its introduction, Novatel Wireless’ MiFi branded products have commercially launched with 25 operators worldwide and have received almost every major industry accolade for innovation.

The DC HSPA+ network will kick off in Toronto on November 23, before further roll-outs to other Canadian cities. It’ll also see the debut of new, speed-based pricing: a $10 add-on will be available on all Mobile Internet plans, mandatory if subscribers want access to the high-speed network.

Of course, in areas without DC HSPA+ service, the MC547 Turbo Stick will work as a regular HSPA+ modem; Bell has been rolling out that service since this time last year, and now covers “93% of the Canadian population in rural and remote locations.” No word on how much the Novatel modem itself will cost at this stage.

Press Release:

Bell doubling data speeds on world-leading HSPA+ wireless network

North America’s first Dual Cell deployment increases data speeds to up to 42 Mbps
First 42 Mbps product – the Novatel Wireless U547 Turbo Stick – available November 23

MONTREAL, Nov. 18 2010 — Bell today announced it has begun to double HSPA+ network speeds to a maximum of 42 Megabits per second (42 Mbps), and will introduce initial commercial service in Toronto with the launch of the Novatel Wireless U547 Turbo Stick – the first 42 Mbps product available in North America – on November 23.

“Canada’s Best Network just got better. By implementing HSPA+ Dual Cell technology, Bell Mobility offers clients the ability to access the Internet and other data services at what we believe are the fastest mobile data speeds commercially available from any wireless carrier in North America,” said Wade Oosterman, President of Bell Mobility & Residential Services, and Bell’s Chief Brand Officer. “Bell is leading the way in Canadian wireless investment and innovation, enabling the mobile ecosystem that supports the development of new apps and data services by Canadian developers for mobile users here and abroad.”

HSPA+ Dual Cell technology combines two wireless 21 Mbps data carriers through multiplexing techniques at individual HSPA+ cell sites, increasing top-end data speeds from 21 Mbps to 42 Mbps for compatible products. Bell will continue enhancing HSPA+ network with Dual Cell technology to serve more Canadian cities and towns through 2011.

Coordinated through Bell Development Labs, this HSPA+ Dual Cell network enhancement leveraged the technical expertise of chipset, radio and core network infrastructure manufacturers and suppliers, including Huawei, Novatel and Qualcomm. Already providing speeds up to 21 Mbps to consumer and business clients, Bell Mobility’s HSPA+ network provides a robust platform on which developers continue to deliver a wide range of innovative business, entertainment and productivity applications.

Bell introduced broadband HSPA+ service in November 2009, bringing high-speed wireless service to 93% of the Canadian population in rural and remote locations, small towns and major urban centres across the country. The new network has supported the development of industry-leading data services such as Bell Mobile TV and rapid wireless growth at Bell, including a 39% increase in mobile data revenue and a 74% increase in the company’s base of smartphone users year over year.

Novatel U547 Turbo Stick
The first product able to take advantage of 42 Mbps Dual Cell technology is the U547 Turbo Stick from Novatel Wireless, available at Bell retail locations, including The Source, in Toronto next Tuesday November 23. When paired with a laptop or netbook. Novatel’s latest Turbo Stick will allow Bell Mobility clients to experience mobile access speeds never before available for the fastest mobile Internet access, business applications, video streaming, gaming and much more.

Bell will also introduce new speed-based pricing with the launch of these Dual Cell compatible devices. A $10 add-on feature will be available on all Mobile Internet pricing plans to allow Bell clients to take advantage of speeds up to 42 Mbps. The pricing model aligns with the approach for fixed broadband services, which ensures clients benefit from the value associated with the highest access speeds available.

About Bell
Bell is Canada’s largest communications company, providing consumers and business with solutions to all their communications needs, including Bell Mobility wireless, high-speed Bell Internet, Bell Satellite TV and Bell Fibe TV, Bell Home Phone local and long distance, and Bell Business Markets IP-broadband and information and communications technology (ICT) services.

The Bell Mental Health Initiative is a multi-year charitable program that promotes mental health across Canada via the Bell Let’s Talk anti-stigma campaign and support for community care, research and workplace best practices. To learn more, please visit bce.ca/mentalhealth. Bell is wholly owned by BCE Inc. (TSX, NYSE: BCE). For information on Bell products and services, please visit www.bell.ca. For BCE corporate information, please visit www.bce.ca.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Introduces First Commercial Dual-Cell HSPA+ USB Modem in North America

42 Mbps Capable Compact Ovation MC547 USB Available November 23 on the Bell
Mobility Network in Canada
SAN DIEGO, November 18, 2010 — Novatel Wireless Inc., (Nasdaq: NVTL), a
leading provider of wireless broadband access solutions, today announced the
upcoming availability of the Ovation MC547 USB modem on Bell Mobility¹s
Dual-Cell HSPA+ (DC HSPA+) network. In a separate release today, Bell
Mobility announced North America¹s first commercial launch of a Dual-Cell
HSPA+ network supporting data speeds of up to 42 Mbps.
Continuing Novatel Wireless¹ industry lead in enabling next-generation
mobile experiences with solutions focused on ease-of-use, reliability,
leading edge technology and an innovative sleek style, the Ovation MC547
modem is today the world¹s most compact and light-weight DC-HSPA+ USB modem.
³We¹re excited to support Bell Mobility with the launch of the MC547
DC-HSPA+ USB modem,” said Peter Leparulo, Chairman and CEO of Novatel
Wireless. ³We continue to emphasize bringing the most advanced technologies
to market, and are proud to continue our long standing relationship with
Bell Mobility.²
The Ovation MC547 is based on the 3GPP Release 8 standard. DC-HSPA+ supports
theoretical peak downlink data rates of up to 42 Mbps and theoretical 11
Mbps on the uplink, allowing carriers to easily upgrade their existing
infrastructure equipment to achieve significantly higher bandwidths.

About Novatel Wireless
Novatel Wireless, Inc. is a leader in the design and development of
innovative wireless broadband access solutions based on 3G and 4G wireless
technologies. Novatel Wireless’ Intelligent Mobile Hotspot products,
software, USB modems and embedded modules enable high-speed wireless
Internet access on leading wireless data networks. The Company delivers
specialized wireless solutions to carriers, distributors, OEMs and vertical
markets worldwide. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Novatel Wireless
is listed on NASDAQ: NVTL. For more information please visit
www.novatelwireless.com. (NVTLG)

MiFi OS is a browser-based platform that allows access to programs running on the 3352′s separate applications processor, rather than demanding those apps be installed to the WiFi-connected client (whether PC, Mac, smartphone or tablet).  At launch, it will run apps for data usage, GeoSearch, GeoWeather and SMS capabilities, but the company is hoping more developers will jump on board; previous MiFi units had Eye-Fi and other functionality.

As for the 3G network sharing itself, the MiFI 3352′s modem supports up to 7.2Mbps downlinks and can support up to five simultaneously WiFi-connected devices with a roughly 10m range and 5hr battery life.  It also has a microSD card slot (up to 32GB cards supported) the contents of which can be accessed by all the WiFi clients.  More pricing details here.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Commercially Launches MiFi OS with New MiFi 3352 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot

SAN DIEGO, CA, November 3, 2010 — Novatel Wireless, Inc. (Nasdaq: NVTL), a leading provider of wireless broadband access solutions, today announces its new Intelligent Mobile Hotspot — the MiFi 3352 — which comes pre-loaded with Novatel Wireless MiFi operating system (OS), widgets and applications support. This will enhance both the intelligence of the device and the user experience through applications capabilities across users’ Wi-Fi devices of choice. The device is today launching commercially in the UK with Orange under the name Mobile WiFi.

Novatel Wireless MiFi OS complements on-the-go Internet connectivity with a number of value added applications. The MiFi OS delivers a browser based Web user interface (UI) for quick intuitive access to MiFi resources, widgets and on-board applications and content.

The MiFi customers will also benefit from an improved user experience giving customers freedom from having to install and maintain software on every device that connects to the MiFi hotspot. Rather than installing applications for each connecting Wi-Fi device (notebooks, netbooks, tablets) the applications reside on the MiFi 3352 device and no installation is necessary on the connecting devices. Easy access through the Web UI is provided regardless of device connecting to the MiFi 3352.

The award winning MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot delivers download speeds up to 7.2 megabits per second with enhanced performance for simultaneous uploads/downloads and large file transfers. It supports up to five simultaneous users located within 10 meters of the device. Compact and simple to use, the MiFi 3352 also includes a microSD slot for expandable memory of up to 32 gigabytes.

Speaking about the UK launch, Phil Roberson, Director of Devices for Everything Everywhere, the company which runs Orange in the UK said, “We’re excited to be rolling out the world’s first truly intelligent mobile hotspot. One of the key drivers for differentiation is the operating system and the simple access to new widgets and apps on the mobile WiFi. As a result, this new device complements our mobile broadband offering perfectly.”

Orange’s Mobile WiFi operates on Orange UK HSPA network and offers simultaneous Wi-Fi connectivity for up to five devices or users. At launch, it will feature widgets such as data usage, GeoSearch, GeoWeather and SMS capabilities.

“We’re thrilled to introduce this industry first with such an innovative UK operator,” said Rob Hadley, chief marketing officer for Novatel Wireless. “Orange’s Mobile WiFi with intelligence and added capabilities fits perfectly with Orange’s mobile broadband portfolio and we’re proud to support this launch in the UK.”

Meanwhile there’s also a 3G-enabled Samsung N150 netbook, with 11hrs of battery life, 1GB of RAM and a 250GB hard-drive, and a variety of new mobile broadband plans.  Both monthly and yearly contracts are offered, plus there’s an optional 1GB of extra “quiet time” data allowance (from midnight until 4pm).

Finally there are three new SIM-only tariffs.  Full details on the new plans in the gallery below, though bear in mind they include a £5 discount for existing Orange subscribers (mobile or broadband) .

Press Release:

Orange introduces mobile WiFi in mobile broadband and mobile SIM Only refresh

• New Orange Mobile WiFi introduced with the launch of the Novatel Wireless 3352
• Samsung N150 connected netbook unveiled, featuring 11 hours of battery life, 1GB of RAM and a 250GB hard drive
• Existing Orange pay monthly, pay as you go and home broadband customers rewarded with a £5 discount on all new mobile broadband price plans
• Orange also expands its SIM Only mobile portfolio with three new tariffs

Orange today announced a refresh of its UK mobile broadband offering, as well as three new SIM Only tariffs for mobile customers – which for the first time include 12 month contracts. The new packages are designed to provide Orange customers with even greater choice and flexibility than ever before.

Mobile Broadband
Rewarding users with best value, all Orange customers, whether on pay monthly, pay as you go or on Orange home broadband – receive a £5 discount on mobile broadband plans, giving them the flexibility to surf, email and post updates wherever they are.
Responding to customer demand, Orange has reintroduced its 12 month price plans on new Dolphin and Racoon packages. Both one and 12 month Dolphin plans now come with a 1GB monthly allowance, and select packages offer an additional 1GB “quiet time” data allowance (from midnight until 4pm) as well as the option of unlimited data through BT OpenZone public WiFi.

Meanwhile occasional mobile broadband users can choose between Orange’s Racoon packages offer 500MB on one and 12 month plans, or a pay as you consume option with no line rental for existing Orange customers, who simply pay 5p for each megabyte of data.

Orange Racoon

Contract length
Monthly data allowance
Monthly cost
Dongles – One off charge
Dongles – One off charge
Mobile Wi-Fi – One off charge
Huawei E1752
Option 515m

1 month 500MB anytime £5* £29 £39 £89
1 month £0.05/MB anytime (capped at £40 = 800MB) £0* £29 £39 £89
12 months 500MB anytime £5* £0 £10 £59

Orange Dolphin

Contract length
Monthly data allowance
Monthly cost
Huawei E1752
Option 515m
Mobile WiFi
1 month 1GB anytime Unlimited BT Openzone Wi-Fi** £15* £15 £25 £75
1 month 1GB anytime £10* £15 £25 £75
12 month
1GB anytime
1GB quiet time
Unlimited BT Openzone Wi-Fi**
£15* £0 £10 £49
12 month
1GB anytime
1GB quiet time
£10* £0 £10 £59

*Prices quoted are with £5 discount for existing Orange pay as you go, pay monthly and home broadband customers
** BT Openzone usage is subject to a fair use policy

Orange Mobile WiFi
Orange also launched today its first Mobile WiFi device, with the Novatel Wireless 3352, allowing customers to get online with up to five simultaneous WiFi devices – including laptops, music players, games consoles, digital cameras and tablets – over the Orange 3G network. Requiring no USB connections or wires, Orange customers can now create a portable 3G WiFi hotspot for all their WiFi gadgets, at the touch of a button. Smart and simple, Mobile WiFi is available on all Orange mobile broadband plans, starting from a one-off fee of £49 depending on the package taken. The compact and stylish device features an intuitive interface with customisable widgets and on-board applications.

Samsung N150 Netbook
From today, customers can also get the stunning Samsung N150 netbook with Orange mobile broadband. Featuring an embedded SIM, the N150 comes with an unbeatable 11 hours of battery life, 1GB of RAM and a 250GB hard drive for photos, music, files and more. With its exclusive matt black finish, it’s as stylish as it is powerful and will get customers online instantly. The Samsung N150 is available on two 24 month price plans:
For £25* a month plus a £80 upfront fee, customers enjoy 1GB anytime and 1GB quiet time plus 100 texts
For £30* a month plus a £50 upfront fee, customers enjoy 1GB anytime and 1GB quiet time plus 100 text and unlimited WiFi
SIM Only Mobile Tariffs
Finally, Orange is expanding its SIM Only offering with the introduction of three new Canary animal tariffs for mobile customers. This is the first time that Orange is offering 12 month SIM Only contracts, providing greater flexibility and choice for customers.

Designed for people who love to chat, these new plans reward customers with the following inclusive rewards:
30 day £10 SIM Only plan – 100 minutes and unlimited texts
12 month £10 SIM Only plan – 300 minutes and unlimited texts
12 month £15 SIM Only plan – 600 minutes and unlimited texts
Simeon Bird, Director of Propositions at Orange: “At Orange, we’re always looking at ways to meet the ever-changing demands of our new and existing customers. We believe our new mobile broadband and SIM Only offerings do just that by enabling customers to stay connected – whether by calls and text – or by surfing the internet, email or through social networking sites.”

All new tariffs and products will be available through Orange shops, Orange telesales and online from www.orange.co.uk

Basically, that means the MiFi 3352 is headed to Europe and Asia, while the MiFi 3372 has support for AT&T’s 3G network in the US.  No sign of the 1700MHz band required for T-Mobile USA, unfortunately.  Of course there’s no information on release dates in the certification, but we’re guessing these new MiFi devices aren’t far out from an official announcement.

[via Twitter]

Meanwhile there’ll also be another Motorola Android 2.2 device, currently unnamed but described as following the “slab form-factor”, which looks similar to a Motorola Q but with a touchscreen and global roaming.  Motorola’s tablet ambitions are also mentioned, pushed back to February 2011 to accommodate Android 3.0, with a 10-inch display, either a 1GHz or 1.3GHz CPU and a front-facing camera.

Samsung also have a tablet in the works, with a 7-inch display, likely to be the Samsung Galaxy Tab we’ve seen previously, and they and HTC are also working on global Android phones for Verizon that will supposedly arrive before the end of the year.

As for LTE, Verizon are apparently targeting 75-percent coverage by April 2012, and are planning $59.99 per month LTE data access for data cards (with an unspecified allowance).  That’ll be useful for the Novatel Wireless LTE MiFi apparently set to arrive early in Q1 2011, which is tipped to support ten simultaneous WiFi connections.

As far as hardware goes, Virgin have only made aesthetic changes to the original MiFi 2200, not physical. That means you still get a relatively compact, palm-sized device – discretely finished in brushed silver and black – with a single button for power and a microUSB port for charging or using the MiFi as a tethered modem. Inside the battery compartment is a 1,150mAh rechargeable pack; unlike the GSM version of the MiFi, there’s no microSD card slot for using the 2200 as a mobile NAS.

Setup is straightforward, basically amounting to turning the MiFi on and then choosing its SSID on whatever device you’re looking to get connected. A default WPA2 code is preset, but you can log into the MiFi’s browser-based control panel (which shows signal strength, connection type and battery status even without being logged in) to change that (and, indeed, the SSID). There are also controls for MAC authentication, DHCP, VPN pass-through and port forwarding, though we’d imagine most users will leave well alone.

From that point on, the MiFi is generally self-sufficient. An LED integrated into the power button shows basic status information, but for anything more complex you need to log into the control panel. Up to five active WiFi clients can be connected at any one time; there’s no client software to be installed, so it’s open season for your smartphone, PSP, DSi, iPad or netbook. Of course, the sort of bandwidth each of those can expect will depend on the quality of your network connection.

That connection may come branded as Virgin Mobile USA but it’s Sprint’s backbone doing the hard work. Having bought out the MVNO back in July, Sprint now keeps Virgin on as one of its more youth-oriented prepaid brands. Indeed, this MiFi is the first such example to be offered prepaid in the US. Ironically, Sprint themselves offer the same MiFi 2200; so how does the pricing line up?

Virgin Mobile offer four different plans for the prepaid MiFi, varying in both data allowance and the period before that allowance expires. Cheapest is the $10 plan, including a mere 100MB and lasting just 10 days, with $20 (300MB/30 days), $40 (1GB/30 days) and $60 (5GB/30 days) fleshing out the range. The MiFi unit itself is priced at $149.99 contract-free. In comparison, Sprint will give you the MiFi free – presuming you sign up to a two-year agreement, of course – and only offer one plan, $59.99 for 5GB of data per month.

There’s no benefit, then, to opting for the Virgin MiFi if you envisage two years of 5GB service. However if, like many, you’d like the portable 3G hotspot for the occasional periods of travel, or aren’t likely to chomp through a full 5GB each month, the Virgin option makes more sense. Since they’re basically the same unit, battery life is the same: we’ve found between three and four hours of active use, depending on how tenuous the network signal is.

In the period between the MiFi 2200′s debut – all the way back in December 2008 – and now, we’ve seen rival devices from companies such as Huawei arrive on the market. While the core functionality generally remains the same, they’ve nonetheless introduced usability boons such as integrated status displays. The GSM version of the Novatel MiFi includes a separate applications processor, capable of running standalone apps, but the company is yet to leverage that in any meaningful way.

Meanwhile we’re also seeing increasing numbers of smartphones offering mobile hotspot functionality, in effect doing what a MiFi would do only via software. While there’s convenience in having a single device which will cater to both requirements, there are also arguments for separate units: run down your MiFi’s battery, for instance, and you’re simply stuck without mobile broadband, but use up your smartphone’s battery and you can’t receive calls or messages.

Still, it’s likely enough for the occasional user, and that takes another bite out of the Virgin Mobile MiFi’s potential audience. Nonetheless, we can’t help but feel more enamoured of the prepaid version than its contract counterpart; the flexibility to choose when to have service and when to hold off makes excellent sense in these penny-pinching times. Heavy, regular data users should probably stick to the contract options, but anyone else looking for a no-headache way to get online while mobile could do a lot worse than the Virgin Mobile MiFi.

Virgin Mobile USA are claiming users will see up to 4hrs active use from the MiFi 2200 or up to 40hrs standby time.  Recharging is via microUSB, and we’re guessing that – as with the other versions of the MiFi 2200 on sale through Verizon and Sprint – hooking up via USB to a laptop switches the 2200 into standalone modem mode.

Press Release:

Virgin Mobile USA First to Launch Nationwide Prepaid MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot

New Broadband2Go MiFi product is industry’s first Intelligent Mobile Hotspot without a contract allowing customers of any Wi-Fi enabled device to stay connected at home or on-the-go

WARREN, N.J., Jun 29, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Providing an innovative new offer for the ever-evolving mobile broadband market, Virgin Mobile USA today announced the addition of MiFi(R) 2200 to its Broadband2Go portfolio, offering customers the industry’s first prepaid Intelligent Mobile Hotspot. This new device allows those using any Wi-Fi enabled device to connect to 3G, prepaid wireless Internet service without an annual contract, monthly subscription or activation fee.

Virgin Mobile is launching the Novatel Wireless MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot for $149.99 (excluding taxes). Operating on the nationwide Sprint 3G network, the Virgin Mobile MiFi 2200 will be available beginning today at Best Buy and RadioShack and online at BestBuy.com, Walmart.com and VirginMobileUSA.com.

In conjunction with the launch of MiFi, Virgin Mobile USA recently lowered the price of its initial broadband product, the Ovation(TM) MC760 USB device, from $99.99 to $79.99 (excluding taxes). Also developed by Novatel Wireless [NASDAQ: NVTL], the Ovation MC760 carries the distinction of being the world’s smallest EV-DO Rev. A USB device.

“We have seen the popularity of MiFi, heard the requests from our customers, and are excited to give them the freedom to pay for what they use when they use it, and the flexibility to change plans as they need,” said Neil Lindsay, chief marketing officer, Virgin Mobile USA.

Rob Hadley, chief marketing officer from Novatel Wireless, said, “We’re thrilled to support Virgin Mobile USA as the first operator to launch the MiFi 2200 nationwide with prepaid plans and continue to support their visionary market approach and bring true mobility to the masses.”

According to recent research from IDC, the U.S. mobile broadband market is expected to grow from 6.5 million subscribers in 2009 to 30.2 million in 2014, which accounts for a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 36.1% during the forecast period.

“Mobile broadband is no longer just for the early adopters and heavy mobile broadband business users,” Lindsay said. “Many of today’s mobile broadband options in the market have prohibited mass adoption. Combining the MiFi 2200 with a prepaid Broadband2Go plan will encourage a wide variety of consumers to connect at home or on-the-go. With Virgin Mobile USA, it’s simple. A MiFi 2200 with a Virgin Mobile or Broadband2Go Top-Up card will support all your mobile broadband connectivity needs for your laptop, iPad, iPod, gaming devices and more – whenever you need it – whether at home or on the go.”

MiFi creates a mobile hotspot that can be easily shared among up to five users at a time using a variety of WiFi-enabled devices. Key features of the Novatel Wireless MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot include:

Easily fits in the palm of your hand – Dimensions: 3.50 x 2.32 x 0.35 inches; Weight: 2.05 oz.
Brushed aluminum finish
Provides mobile broadband Rev. A Internet access
Supports up to five WiFi-enabled devices
No software installation required
Universal Wi-Fi compatibility
Advanced security through WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, WEP and SPI Firewall
VPN capability
Battery provides four hours of user time, 40 hours standby on single charge
Easy top-up landing page with ability to top up from any device with an Internet browser
Automatic connectivity for Wi-Fi enabled devices
The activation of the Broadband2Go service and the MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot is simple, and there are no activation fees. Megabytes can be added as often as needed with credit/debit cards or Virgin Mobile and Broadband2Go Top-Up cards, and customers can easily monitor data usage with the near real-time usage meter located on the “My Account Page” at virginmobileusa.com after log-in. Broadband2Go plans range from $10 (data expires after 10 days) and $20 to $60 (data expires after 30 days), with the $60 plan offering 5GB.

All three of the modules are optimized for efficiency, thermal performance, and weight. The three devices also support enhanced GPS/GNAA capability providing positional information for navigation and location-based services.

The modules also feature Novaspeed for prioritizing network traffic for enhanced speed. The E351 supports LTE and EV-DO Rev. A on CDMA networks. The E362 has those features and adds global roaming with HSPA+ and UMTS. The E371 has support for LTE with dual carrier HSPA+, UMTS, EDGA, and GPRS capability.

The Virgin MiFi will use Sprint’s EVDO Rev.A network, and share the 3G connection with up to five WiFi-connected clients.  The MVNO’s rates range from $10 for 100MB to $60 for 5GB, with various tiers in-between, and the length for which the data is valid depends on the amount you top-up.

Battery life is estimated at 4hrs, which is in line with the Sprint and Verizon versions.  According to Virgin Mobile, the MiFi will go on sale at Best Buy, Radio Shack and via their online store from June 28th 2010.

[via PhoneMag]

The incidents, Hadley says, are “very isolated” and there have been “zero reports of any harm” caused by the battery damage. Contrary to speculation that the MiFi units could explode, Novatel says the worst-case scenario their labs have been able to predict is part of the portable routers’ case melting if left unchecked. That given, the MiFi 2372 hasn’t been recalled; this is, they say, a replacement program for the battery door as a preventative measure.

Owners are being asked to return both the battery door and the MiFi’s battery, the latter being so that Novatel can check for any damage it may have incurred while the compartment is opened. As for the physical changes to the door section itself, they’ll make the latch easier to press so as to “reduce the incentive” to apply undue pressure or reach for a sharp object.

Bell Mobility have quoted a 6 to 8 week turnaround for the redesigned battery door, though Hadley says Novatel are expecting it to be more like 10 days. In the meantime, owners will be loaned a Novatel Wireless U998 Turbo Stick USB modem to hopefully keep them online. As of now, all new shipping Bell Mobility MiFi 2372 units have the redesigned battery door, so new buyers will get the latest model.

Bell Mobility are shutting off the MiFi 2372′s service as of today, and will be sending out return envelopes and loaner USB sticks over the next few days. The carrier has said that customers with questions regarding the process should contact customer services at 1-800-611-6600.

As for the wearable electronics, Novatel have signed up to use Qualcomm’s latest range of so-called “Wearable Mobile Device modules”.  The two modules offer 1X and 1X EVDO Rev.A connectivity, along with Bluetooth, GPS and an accelerometer, and have USB 2.0 connectivity as well; Novatel have not revealed what plans they have for the two devices – the thought of a wearable MiFi-style hotspot with voice capabilities that you could clip to your lapel or integrate into a wristwatch spring to mind – but Qualcomm expressly designed them for “very small form factor devices.”

No timescale for a 4G WiMAX MiFi release, but given Sprint have already launched one such model, the Overdrive by Sierra Wireless, we’d wager they’re hurrying to get it to market.  As for any wearable devices, that seems likely to be further down the line again.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Completes 18Mbps WiMAX Call With MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot

New Platform Addressing 4G Market for Intelligent Mobile Hotspots

SAN DIEGO, Feb 25, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX News Network/ — Novatel Wireless (Nasdaq: NVTL), a leading provider of wireless broadband solutions, today announced that it has successfully completed over the air testing of its new MiFi(TM) Intelligent Mobile Hotspot prototype based on 4G-WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access). Novatel’s WiMAX implementation immediately achieved throughput of 18Mbps in over-the-air testing and can support theoretical peak throughput speeds exceeding 30Mbps downlink and 10Mbps uplink in a 10 MHz channel.

“Novatel Wireless is pleased to support the growing 4G ecosystem and the evolution of next-generation communications with this milestone WiMAX call,” said Rob Hadley, CMO, Novatel Wireless. “The combination of our intelligent software platform on MiFi with 4G speeds from Beceem’s high-performance 4G-WiMAX chips will open up new opportunities for the growing number of initiatives involving 4G mobile broadband applications and services.”

“We are delighted to work with industry leaders such as Novatel Wireless to provide cutting edge solutions that keep customers connected while on the go,” said Babu Mandava, CEO, Beceem Communications. “We believe combining the power of our 4G-WiMAX chips with the intelligence and innovation of the MiFi product line will allow Novatel to deliver enhanced functionality, performance and an unrivaled user experience.”

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless to Use Qualcomm Wearable Mobile Device Modules

Company to Expand Portfolio of Embedded M2M and CE Devices

SAN DIEGO, Feb 25, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX News Network/ — Novatel Wireless (Nasdaq: NVTL), a leading provider of wireless broadband solutions, today announced that it has completed a technology transfer with Qualcomm Incorporated of two Qualcomm Wearable Mobile Device module designs, enabling the expansion of Novatel Wireless’ portfolio of innovative embedded machine to machine (M2M) and consumer electronic (CE) devices.

The Qualcomm Wearable Mobile Device 1X and 1X EV-DO Rev. A are industry leading modules that support integrated GPS, accelerometer and Bluetooth technologies. With data and voice support for 1X and 1X EV-DO Rev. A networks, a standardized USB 2.0 interface and defined APIs and development kit, the modules provide unprecedented functionality and streamlined 3G connectivity for M2M and CE devices.

“With these cutting-edge Wearable Mobile Device module designs from Qualcomm, Novatel Wireless will be able to continue to expand its broad portfolio to meet customer and market demands,” said Dr. Slim Souissi, CTO, Novatel Wireless. “Collaboration with industry leaders such as Qualcomm allows Novatel Wireless to focus on services and software development while lowering in house research and development costs and accelerating time to market for best in class solutions.”

“Qualcomm is pleased to share its innovative Wearable Mobile Device module technology with Novatel,” said Jack Steenstra, Vice President of Engineering at Qualcomm. “Qualcomm’s Wearable Mobile Device module designs enable the development of very small form factor devices. This technology transfer agreement will allow Novatel Wireless to commercialize the Wearable Mobile Device WMD-1X and EV-DO modules under its existing agreements with Qualcomm, making them readily available to device developers.”

It’s apparently unclear exactly what sort of firmware upgrade existing MiFi owners will be getting, and of course there are two different models which complicates matters somewhat.  The MiFi 2200 CDMA units – available through Sprint and Verizon in the US – lack the GSM MiFi 2352/2372 units’ application processor; Novatel also demonstrated a slick GPS app that was running on a MiFi itself:

Alternatively the MiFi 2372 is available contract-free from Bell Mobility for $249.95.  The device is functionally identical to the MiFi 2352 we reviewed earlier this year, and includes a microSD card slot for sharing the content of up to 16GB cards between any wirelessly-connected device.

Press Release:

Bell introduces the award winning Novatel Wireless MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot

Bell Mobility clients first in Canada to enjoy completely mobile Wi-Fi access

Bell today announced the launch of the award winning MiFi™ 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot from Novatel Wireless (Nasdaq: NVTL). The MiFi 2372 operates on Bell’s new HSPA network and offers simultaneous Wi-Fi connectivity for up to five devices or users.

“Bell Mobility continues to introduce innovative wireless devices that increase productivity by delivering fast and reliable mobile Internet access,” said Adel Bazerghi, Senior Vice President of Products at Bell Mobility. “We’re excited to be the first wireless provider to introduce Canadians to the Novatel Wireless MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot and the convenience of portable Wi-Fi access.”

“We’re pleased to partner with Bell Mobility to launch the first commercial MiFi 2372 platform in North America,” said Rob Hadley, chief marketing officer for Novatel Wireless. “With the MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot, Bell Mobility is providing its clients with unrivaled high speed Internet access virtually anywhere they work or play.”

The MiFi Mobile Intelligent Hotspot platform has won several awards in 2009, including the CTIA Hot for the Holidays Award and the Plus X Award in Technology for Innovation & Ease of Use, and was ranked #2 on the list of BestTravel Gadgets of 2009 by Time Magazine.

Compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems, the MiFi 2372 delivers download speeds up to 7.2 megabits per second with enhanced performance for simultaneous uploads/downloads and large file transfers. It supports up to five simultaneous users located within 30 feet of the device.

Compact and simple to use, the MiFi 2372 also offers optimized functionality for video streaming and online gaming and includes a microSD slot for expandable memory of up to 16 gigabytes.

The Novatel Wireless MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot is available nationally for as little as $99.95 on a three year contract or for $249.95 without a contract. Please visit bell.ca/mobility for more information.

The MiFi 2372 is the North American 3G-spec version of the MiFi 2352 currently on sale in Europe, and which we reviewed earlier this year.  A triband HSPA+ device, it supports the 850/1900/2100 bands, and as with other MiFi devices can share a single 3G connection between up to five WiFi clients, together with the contents of a microSD card in the integrated reader.

Bell will also offer Novatel’s U998 HSPA+ Turbo Stick, a simple USB modem for a single user.  The U998 also has a microSD slot, and can accept up to 32GB cards.  No word on pricing as yet, but we expect to hear that sometime in November.

“MiFi 2200 is still CDMA only.  In the case of the Sprint firmware upgrade, we’re enabling support of international roaming to Sprint’s CDMA roaming partner networks.  MiFi 2200 will not operate on GSM-based networks.  This firmware update is specific to the Sprint MiFi.  It will not be available on the Verizon version.” Novatel statement

As Novatel have told us, the update merely enables roaming support on Sprint’s CDMA partner networks; that means Europe is still, basically, a no-go zone for the MiFi 2200.  Other changes include the MiFi no longer going into hibernate mode when plugged into AC power, and improved DHCP IP settings.

The update for either the Sprint or Verizon versions of the MiFi 2200 can be loaded by going to the MiFi’s administration page, choosing the WWAN tab and selecting configuration, then clicking “Update Firmware”.  We’ve still no news on the release date for the Novatel Wireless MiFi 2372, the US-spec version of the GSM model.

[via Pocketables]

The Ovation MC998D is also backward compatible with HSPA networks, and future firmware updates will unlock up to 28.8Mbps downlink rates, assuming the networks catch up.  Novatel’s MobiLink 3 auto install connection manager is preloaded on the dongle itself for easy use.  No word on when we might see it on sale, though, nor if Novatel have managed to tempt any of the carriers with the MC998D.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Introduces Innovative Ovation MC998D Next Generation HSPA+ High-Speed USB Mobile Broadband Product

SAN DIEGO, Oct 07, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Novatel Wireless, Inc., (Nasdaq: NVTL), a leading provider of wireless broadband solutions,today announced its industry-leading Ovation MC998D HSPA+ product.

The Ovation MC998D supports the 850,1900 and 2100 MHz frequency bands and is designed to provide connectivity virtually anywhere to check email, download rich multimedia content and stay connected to family, friends and coworkers. The Ovation MC998D offers unprecedented speed in Novatel Wireless’ compact form factor design and comes equipped with “multiple input multiple output” (MIMO+) and diversity antenna technologies to maximize data throughput and operating range. Featuring Novatel Wireless’ MobiLink 3 auto install connection manager, memory storage of up to 16GB via MicroSDHC and backward compatibility with HSPA technologies, the Ovation MC998D provides a total solution for mobile broadband connectivity.

“The addition of the Ovation MC998D to our previously announced family of HSPA+ products underscores our commitment to ensuring our customers’ needs are met on schedule as they upgrade to the latest technologies available,” said Rob Hadley, CMO of Novatel Wireless. “Our complete HSPA+ product line represents our efforts to continuously innovate to provide the fastest and most reliable wireless data devices for our customers and their customers.”

HSPA+ is the next evolution of high-speed packet access (HSPA) wireless broadband technology with greater capacity for data throughput compared to current 3G networks. With peak data speeds of up to 21.6 Mbps on the downlink and 5.76 Mbps on the uplink, as well as the ability to achieve up to 28.8 Mbps downlink speeds with future firmware updates, the MC998D design delivers significant performance enhancements over previous broadband technologies.

ABOUT NOVATEL WIRELESS

Novatel Wireless, Inc. is a leader in the design and development of innovative wireless broadband access solutions based on 3G and 4G WCDMA (HSPA & UMTS), CDMA and GSM technologies. Novatel Wireless’ USB modems, embedded modules, Intelligent Mobile Hotspot products and software enable high-speed wireless Internet access on leading wireless data networks. The Company delivers specialized wireless solutions to carriers, distributors, OEMs and vertical markets worldwide. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Novatel Wireless is listed on NASDAQ: NVTL. For more information please visit www.novatelwireless.com. (NVTLG)

This release may contain forward-looking statements, which are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended to date. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements contained herein. These factors include risks relating to technological changes, new product introductions, continued acceptance of Novatel Wireless’ products and dependence on intellectual property rights. These factors, as well as other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, are discussed in more detail in Novatel Wireless’ filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at www.sec.gov) and other regulatory agencies.

(C) 2009 Novatel Wireless. All rights reserved. The Novatel Wireless name, logo Ovation and Mobilink are trademarks of Novatel Wireless, Inc. Other product or service names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

A further version will support T-Mobile USA’s 3G bands.  However, the existing MiFi 2200 available on Sprint and Verizon will not support the applications, as those models lack the app processor and memory found in the 2352/2372.

As for functionality, that has not been fully detailed but Nomadesk’s app will not only allow WiFi-connected users to access files stored on a memory card inserted into the MiFi’s microSD slot, but sync with cloud-based storage, while Alcatel-Lucent’s app provides a standalone business security suite with automatic patches and anti-virus updates.  Eye-Fi’s software, meanwhile, is expected to offer image uploads to various online galleries.  Novatel have previously described to us a situation where images could be sent from a digital camera to the MiFi, stored on its memory card (leaving you fresh room on the camera itself for more shots), then automatically resized and the edited images uploaded to an online gallery; meanwhile the full-resolution shots would be kept on the MiFi itself, saving on your included data bundle in the process.

While Eye-Fi’s SD cards offer some of that functionality, and will in fact work with a MiFi as a simple WiFi-enabled 3G connection, the MiFi software would allow you to offload content from your camera even without a 3G connection.  Then the MiFi would automatically upload the shots when it next goes online.

Future applications for MiFi might download a local copy of email, RSS and other news, for reading when you don’t necessarily have a wireless connection.  The MiFi is also – with the right software – capable of pinging a WiFi-connected device to alert it to new information, in the manner of push email.  Novatel Wireless kicked off their MiFi Developer Program back in July.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Introduces Second Phase of MiFi™ Developer Program

Intelligent Platform Enables Innovative Applications and Increased Value

SAN DIEGO – Oct. 6, 2009 – Novatel Wireless, Inc., (Nasdaq:NVTL), a leading provider of wireless broadband access solutions, today announced the second phase of the MiFi Developer Program. Available to select software developers and enterprise customers through the Novatel Developer’s Lounge, the MiFi Developer Program provides a rich set of application programming interfaces (APIs), detailed programming guides and technical support for the creation of value-added software applications on the MiFi platform.

Leveraging MiFi’s ample storage capacity, processing power, and GPS capability, software developers will be able to deliver innovative mobile applications for both consumers and the enterprise. One such Novatel partner is leveraging the MiFi SDK to develop an intelligent file management, sharing, and storage application offered through MiFi’s Web UI. The application provides access to local files, the SD card, and cloud storage, as well as several unique user options for file sharing, synch and security.

“With this expansion of the MiFi Developer Program, we will be working with a select number of developer partners to bring additional applications and value to the intelligent MiFi platform. Supporting our partners in the development community is key, so this phase of expansion will give us greater exposure to developer requirements,” said Rob Hadley, CMO, Novatel Wireless.

For more on the Novatel Developer’s Lounge visit:
http://www.novatelwireless.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=219&Itemid=545

Video overview after the cut

Obviously the MC996D itself is no use without a network offering HSPA+, and up until last month that would’ve left the modem pretty useless.  However, midway through September, T-Mobile USA announced that they were rolling out an HSPA+ network in Philadelphia, with theoretical data connections of up to 21Mbps downlinks and 5.75Mbps uplinks.

At the time, T-Mobile did not announce any hardware partners or supported wireless adapters, but Novatel’s HSPA+ modem passing through the FCC seems too big a coincidence to ignore.  No word on how much the adapter will be, nor when we might see an official launch.

[via Yahoo! Finance boards; Thanks George!]

The testing shows that the card supports WiFi a/b/g/n bands, together with UMTS WWAN.  Interestingly, the Qualcomm logo is included on the test photos, which suggests that the card uses a Qualcomm board or chipset.

While it’s possible that this could simply be a 3G/WiFi board intended to deliver a ubiquitous connection to a single notebook, we’d like to think that a Novatel/Qualcomm partnership in this way would deliver more than just that.  Embedded WWAN sharing over WiFi could make for an interesting business notebook; we’re waiting to hear back from Novatel themselves to see if they have any comment.

[via Yahoo! Finance - Thanks George!]

There’s some confusion in the UK, where carrier 3 has launched the Huawei E583X under the name “MiFi”, a term more commonly associated with Novatel Wireless’ range.  Like the 2352, the 3 MiFi shares a single 3G data connection with up to five WiFi clients and runs from its own rechargeable battery; unlike the 2352, the 3 MiFi lacks the secondary applications processor and memory.  According to Hadley, the nomenclature issue has come about because 3 hold the “MiFi” telecom services trademark, while everywhere else Novatel hold the “MiFi” product trademark.  To get around that, in the UK the 2352 will be marketed under the Novatel Wireless name, rather than as the MiFi.

Rob also had a few words to say on the recently opened Novatel Developer Program, the first stage in bringing coders in to get third-party apps running on the MiFi 2352′s processor.  This is apparently only in its early stages, though we’re told there’ll be a significant consumer announcement coming soon, rather than merely the enterprise-friendly VPN and similar software that has been discussed previously.  While we’re not allowed to mention much of what Hadley told us is in the pipeline, we can say that Novatel are focusing heavily on the “personal” aspect of the MiFi, and leveraging the always-on webserver element of the device.

We suggested one of our own dream apps: a photo processing tool that would take shots from an Eye-Fi or a WiFi connected device, create multiple sizes on the MiFi itself, watermark them as appropriate, and then upload the web-sized versions to an online gallery (such as an Apple liveblog) while storing the full-sized images on the hotspot’s microSD card.  Giving nothing away, Hadley agreed that that sort of functionality was ideally-suited to the MiFi.

We also pressed him on the possibility of Android on the MiFi, something he had previously confirmed to SlashGear that was technically feasible.  While it’s not something Novatel Wireless are currently working on, he admitted that the Linux-based device certainly could be used with Google’s open-source distro, assuming the mobile platform’s dependency on having a screen and buttons could be reworked to suit the MiFi.  Android, we can’t help but think, could easily push the MiFi concept to its tipping point for third-party developers, and the device is crying out for some under-the-table hacking.  Similarly, when we tried to press Hadley for news on the rumored LTE MiFi he refused to be drawn; however, we’d be very surprised if Novatel didn’t have at least plans for personal LTE-sharing devices somewhere on an internal roadmap.

We’ll be keeping an eye on Novatel Wireless’ software announcements (and keep pestering them on Android); until then, check out our review of the MiFi 2352 and our unboxing video of the device below.

Sprint will charge you $59.99 per month over the course of a two-year agreement, with 5GB of included data each month and a $36 activation fee.  Over the course of the contract you’ll have paid $1,475.77.

As for Verizon, they offer two plans – either $39.99 per month for 250MB of data or $59.99 for 5GB like Sprint – and right now Amazon are throwing in up to a $35 rebate to cover your activation charge.  That means you can have a MiFi 2200 for as little as $959.77 if you’re a low data user, or $1,439.77 for the same plan as Sprint.

[via Working Anywhere]

The existing MiFi 2352, which we reviewed back in June, supported the Euro-friendly 900/1900/2100MHz bands.  This new MiFi 2372, however, will seemingly not only support those bands but the AT&T/Rogers Wireless 850MHz band for high-speed connectivity in the US and Canada.

It also has an integrated GPS receiver, microSD card slot - the contents of which can be shared, NAS-style, among the multiple WiFi clients – and a separate app processor, ROM and RAM for running standalone programs as part of the MiFi SDK.  No word on when we could see AT&T or Rogers Wireless offering the MiFi 2372, but given the success of its MiFi 2200 CDMA counterpart on Sprint and Verizon it seems reasonable to think they’d want to launch it sooner rather than later.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Announces MiFi 2372 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot Optimized for North American HSPA Broadband Networks

Global HSPA Edition Brings Intelligent Mobile Hotspot Capability to Virtually Anywhere in the World

SAN DIEGO, Jul 28, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Novatel Wireless, Inc. (Nasdaq:NVTL), a provider of wireless broadband access solutions, today unveiled the MiFi 2372 HSPA, the newest version of its Intelligent Mobile Hotspot developed for use virtually anywhere in the world, with multi-mode operation, including HSPA, UMTS, EDGE and GPRS.

The MiFi line of Intelligent Mobile Hotspots drives a new vision for personal broadband connectivity. The MiFi 2372 HSPA advances this even further by enabling not only access to connected devices, but also mobile access to new services, applications management and personalization:

Broadened Service Delivery. Like other models in the MiFi line of Intelligent Mobile Hotspots, the MiFi 2372 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, smartphones and portable multimedia players. With data speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps downlink and 5.76 Mbps uplink, the MiFi 2372 enables users to access high-speed Internet from anywhere there is a cellular connection, including moving vehicles where multiple passengers may need Internet access. The MiFi 2372 also comes with Novatel’s proprietary NovaSpeed technology, enhancing performance of video, online gaming, simultaneous uploads and downloads and large file transfers with minimal interruption or buffering.
Mobile Software Platform. The MiFi 2372 has a powerful on-board applications processor capable of delivering rich software applications and media. The combination of internal (ROM) storage, up to 16GB of expandable microSD memory and on-board GPS capabilities make MiFi 2372 a flexible and robust platform capable of running a variety of location-based applications and enabling the storage of personal content such as music, video and pictures.
Open Developer’s Community. Novatel has taken the first step in enabling developers to leverage the embedded processing capabilities of MiFi by opening the software interfaces to the developer community. Developers can download the MiFi applications programming interfaces and programmer guide from the Novatel Developer’s Lounge at www.novatelwireless.com/lounge.
Flexibility for Enterprise and Consumer Uses. The MiFi 2372 provides a flexible platform to address the evolution of mobile broadband for both enterprise and consumers. The MiFi 2372 enables IT managers to extend and enhance mobile workforce solutions and better secure, control and manage broadband connections, together with the ability to host vertical applications. Consumers can enjoy a vastly improved user experience, turn a Wi-Fi device into a mobile Internet device, and personalize cloud computing applications to seamlessly engage with the content they desire.

Operators launching MiFi have already experienced incremental revenue streams for mobile data by extending mobile capability to traditionally fixed Wi-Fi enabled devices.

“We are very pleased to announce the continued evolution of the MiFi Intelligent Mobile Hotspot product line,” said Peter Leparulo, chairman and CEO of Novatel Wireless. “The availability of the MiFi 2372 HSPA will significantly expand the addressable market for MiFi technology, as well as offering users unrivaled high speed access to multiple devices virtually anywhere they go around the globe.”

ABOUT NOVATEL WIRELESS

Novatel Wireless, Inc. is a leader in the design and development of innovative wireless broadband access solutions based on 3G and 4G WCDMA (HSPA & UMTS), CDMA and GSM technologies. Novatel Wireless’ USB modems, embedded modules, Intelligent Mobile Hotspot products and software enable high-speed wireless Internet access on leading wireless data networks. The Company delivers specialized wireless solutions to carriers, distributors, OEMs and vertical markets worldwide. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Novatel Wireless is listed on NASDAQ: NVTL. For more information please visit www.novatelwireless.com. (NVTLG)

In addition, the MiFi 2352 also has a separate applications processor, with its own RAM and flash memory, from which it can run standalone web-connected software accessible to WiFi-connected clients.  Novatel Wireless released the SDK for the MiFi 2352 (together with its CDMA 2200 siblings, available in the US on Sprint and Verizon) earlier today.

The Vodafone Spain MiFi 2352 will be available through the carrier’s business arm, though it’s yet to make an appearance on their website.  We’re also waiting to hear back on pricing for the WiFi modem.

Update: Tariffs range from €32 ($46) per month for 1GB of data, through €39 ($55) for 3GB to €49 ($70) for 5GB.  The MiFi 2352 itself seems to be priced at €29 ($41) subsidized by a data plan.

The API is applicable both to the MiFi 2352 – currently available with Euro 3G support – and the MiFi 2200 which is on sale in the US through Verizon and Sprint with EVDO Rev.A support - together with future models (such as the tipped 2372 US 3G UMTS model).  Developers also get access to the Novatel support forum and can help the company shape future MiFi models.

The MiFi 2352 has a secondary processor, RAM and flash memory, which can be used to run network-attached apps on the device itself.  That way, any WiFi connected client will be able to access the app’s services (security permitting).  Registration for the MiFi developer program is free.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Accelerates MiFi Evolution with First Release of MiFi Web Server Interface to Developer Community

Release of CGI Streamlines MiFi Application Development

SAN DIEGO, Jul 27, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Novatel Wireless, Inc. (Nasdaq:NVTL), a leading provider of wireless broadband access solutions, today announced the availability of its MiFi Web server Common Gateway Interface (CGI) for the MiFi Developer Program. Easy to understand, the interfaces are targeted for both novice and advanced developers. The release of these interfaces will promote the acceleration of the MiFi ecosystem, by allowing the Company to harness the creative power of potentially thousands of Internet programmers. Releasing the Web server CGI is designed as the first step in enabling developers to leverage MiFi’s open CGI interface and access the on-board processing capabilities of the MiFi line of Intelligent Mobile Hotspots.

In conjunction with this announcement, developers will be able to download the MiFi CGI API Programmer Guide from the Novatel Wireless Developer’s Lounge at www.novatelwireless.com/lounge. The API applies to the current MiFi generation of products (2200, 2352) and future generations. Developers will also be able to access a Novatel support forum, get tips from fellow developers and make suggestions for further MiFi enhancements.

“We are very excited about opening the software interfaces of MiFi to the developer community,” said Rob Hadley, CMO of Novatel Wireless. “This is the first of several steps in building a vibrant third party developer community and enabling the development and distribution of advanced enterprise and consumer applications that extend the software power of the MiFi line of Intelligent Mobile Hotspots.”

ABOUT NOVATEL WIRELESS

Novatel Wireless, Inc. is a leader in the design and development of innovative wireless broadband access solutions based on 3G and 4G WCDMA (HSPA & UMTS), CDMA and GSM technologies. Novatel Wireless’ USB modems, embedded modules, Intelligent Mobile Hotspot products and software enable high-speed wireless Internet access on leading wireless data networks. The Company delivers specialized wireless solutions to carriers, distributors, OEMs and vertical markets worldwide. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Novatel Wireless is listed on NASDAQ: NVTL. For more information please visit www.novatelwireless.com. (NVTLG)

Elsewhere, Nokia’s long-awaited N97 finally reached North American customers’ hands, ours included, and you can find our unboxing and first-impressions here.  It’s a decent smartphone, and understandably the flagship of Nokia’s line, but can it hold up in the face of iPhone’s upgraded OS 3.0 software?  We’ll have our full review this coming week.

If it’s a QWERTY keyboard you’re after, but you prefer your phones berry-flavored, then the news that both Verizon and Sprint would be offering the BlackBerry Tour 9630 in the near future will probably come as some relief.  3G, GPS, for all the specs check out the official RIM video.  Finally, Samsung took the wraps off of the Omnia Pro B7610, complete with a glorious OLED touchscreen display and slide out ‘board.

It’s not all been smartphones, though.  SlashGear sat in front of a small screen, in the shape of Fujitsu-Siemen’s Amilo Mini Ui 3520 netbook, and a big screen (albeit a virtual one) with the Q-London 3D 80″ Video Eyewear.  Oh, and in the name of extreme destruction, we watched Lenovo’s ThinkPad T400s go head to head with a 26,000lb DOW truck.  If you want to see whether a slender ultraportable notebook can cope with getting comfortable between rubber and gravel, check out the video.

Finally, Microsoft confirmed that the Zune HD PMP will use NVIDIA’s Tegra chipset, making us even more keen to see what this potential-iPod-killer (yes, we know, a cliché if ever there was one) brings to the table.  And for your high-definition home entertainment, PopcornHour delivered their C200 Blu-ray ready media-streamer.  If you’ve ever looked at your media collection and wished there was a set-top box that could handle it all without breaking a sweat, this is the gadget for you.

For the full rundown of what’s in the MiFi box, check out our video unboxing.  Basically, in its SIM-free form as you see here, Novatel Wireless supply a global power-adapter with various plug inserts, a USB to microUSB cable, rechargeable 1,530mAh battery and a small printed Getting Started guide.  The MiFi 2352 supports various connection speeds, from quadband (850/900/1800/1900MHz) GPRS/EDGE up to triband (900/1900/2100MHz) UMTS HSUPA/HSDPA.  Network-depending, you can theoretically see up to 7.2Mbps downlink rates and up to 5.76Mbps uplink rates.

There’s no driver disc, because there needn’t be any drivers.  As standard Novatel require no connection manager – the software Verizon supply with their CDMA MiFi is their own decision; Sprint’s version uses no such app – presuming you’re using the 2352′s WiFi connection.  Setup is as speedy as dropping in your SIM, holding down the single button until the lights begin blinking, and then waiting for the MiFi to start spitting out a wireless connection.  The default SSID is a sensible “MiFi_2352″ and by navigating to “http://www.mifi” you access the device’s locally-hosted homepage showing the number of connected clients (up to 5 are supported simultaneously), connection details and battery status. 

Since sharing a capped HSPA data connection via an unsecured WiFi network seems a recipe for overage charges or disconnection, the first step for most users will be accessing the admin pages and setting up WEP, WPA or WPA2 encryption.  Thankfully that’s straightforward with the MiFi’s basic but speedy UI; there are also options for MAC filtering and recording various logs of WiFi connections and modem events.  The MiFi can be loaded with up to six “internet profiles”, each with corresponding settings to a different SIM; that way, if you regularly switch between carriers (say, if traveling) then it’s simple to flick between the presets.

As on a full-sized router, there’s also port filtering support, the ability to set custom permitted applications, port forwarding, a switchable DHCP server and VPN pass-through support.  Unlike a normal router there’s also an optional power management setting which can shut the MiFi down after between 2 or 60 minutes of idle time.  Once you’ve made all the tweaks you want, you can backup the settings to a connected computer.

Buttons may be in short supply on the MiFi, but blinking colored lights are not.  To be fair, there are only two: one single blue WiFi logo hidden in the chrome strip running the modem’s waist, the other a multicolored light integrated into the power button.  The former lights solid when WiFi is on, then flashes when users are connected.  As for the latter, that cycles through various hues to indicate GPRS/EDGE, EDGE/WCDMA or HSPA connections (green, blue or violet respectively) together with flashing red to show low battery and amber to show charge status (flashing when charging, solid when full).  There’s no obvious way to see more granular battery status; that requires accessing the MiFi’s status page. 

One of the main differences between this HSPA MiFi and the CDMA versions available in the US is its microSD slot, according to the documentation happy with up to 16GB cards.  With this, it’s possible to turn the MiFi into a miniature, portable NAS of sorts; access can be set as read-only or read/write, though there’s no granular password control over different users as you’d find on a full-scale NAS.  From talking with Novatel, it seems this might be addressed in a future update.  Access, though, is limited to anybody with encrypted WiFi access, which is likely enough control for most users, making the MiFi ideal for storing commonly-accessed files and documentation.  It’s also ideal for use with a netbook, UMPC or MID, which might sacrifice internal storage for portability.  A few 16GB microSD cards are a whole lot cheaper than paying for an SSD upgrade on such a device, plus they’re then of benefit to any WiFi-connected computer.

So far it’s a pretty basic NAS, though.  You can upload files (one at a time), open or delete them from the web interface, but there’s no way to transfer files already on the card between folders.  We were also unable to map the microSD card as a network drive.  On the up side, each folder can be given separate read-only or read/write status.

It’s also possible to use the MiFi as a standard, USB modem, with the supplied cable and the drivers available to install from the device itself.  Novatel’s connection manager offers the usual connect and disconnect choices, with basic stats, plus an SMS app and address book.  Unfortunately using a direct connection kicks the MiFi 2352 into non-WiFi mode, something Novatel’s quick start guide seems to imply is intentional but that we’d prefer was a user option.  There’s no provision for topping up the MiFi’s battery via USB while also sharing its 3G connection, though of course most OSes will let you broadcast the connection over the notebook’s own WiFi.

Also new to this particular MiFi model is its processing capabilities.  Novatel have given the 2352 a separate 900MHz ARM app processor, RAM and flash storage, with the obvious expectation being that there’ll be a growing catalog of third-party and homegrown mobility software that can run on the device itself.  As with any new platform, however, the limitation is primarily a shortage of cooperating developers.  There’s seemingly just one third-party app on offer right now, an enterprise-level device manager from Alcatel-Lucent (which we didn’t have access to for testing), while Novatel themselves have apparently developed a “basic” VPN client.  With no MiFi App Store or equivalent, however, distribution seems left to carriers or hardware providers, not individual users, and there’s currently no publicly available SDK.

That’s unlikely to stop the intrepid from delving into the MiFi 2352′s Linux roots, albeit on a small scale.  Having been told that the intelligent hotspot “doesn’t support Android at present, but runs an OS selected for its potential for Android installation at some point in the future” we’re feeling cautiously optimistic that – likely as the Google OS itself develops, and becomes more suited to non-smartphone devices – future MiFi units could end up with an Android Market injection.

All early days, though, and right now the bigger question is how those extra components might impact on battery life.  Novatel quote the same 4hrs use/40hrs standby for the 2352 as the Sprint and Verizon MiFi 2200 units, which lack the app processor, and supply a bigger, 1,530mAh battery than the 1,150mAh in its simpler cousins.  In our testing the 2352 managed a little over Novatel’s active usage estimates, complete with some standby downtime; your experience will vary on how strong the 3G signal is, and we did notice the MiFi became quite warm after extended use, particularly when it was struggling to keep a grip on a connection indoors.

Officially, the MiFi 2352 is only available through one European carrier at present, Telefonica in Spain.  It’s unclear if they’ve made use of the MiFi’s A-GPS abilities; there doesn’t appear to be any obvious way to access it in our non-carrier unit.  Sprint’s 2200 MiFi can be set to integrate location data with such things as Google searches, automatically bringing back nearby listings ahead of more general ones.  That appears to be a carrier-specific function.

Speaking of carriers, Novatel have a GSM version of the MiFi intended for US 3G bands.  The MiFi 2372 is yet to show up on the company’s own webpages, but its been spotted clearing the FCC complete with support for the 850/1900MHz bands; that suggests we may be seeing an AT&T version sometime in the near future.

There’s little not to like about the Novatel Wireless MiFi 2352.  It’s slightly thicker than the EVDO versions, and that’s partly because of the discrete app processor that, right now, we’re not seeing much use of, but future implementations could righten that balance.  Similarly, the microSD functionality may not be as flexible as a traditional NAS, but it’s a nice bonus and a quick way to share information between devices or users.

None of that distracts from what the MiFi does best, though: sharing a single connection in a straightforward way.  With a reasonable HSPA link it’s possible to fool yourself into thinking you’re at home or the office, as devices automatically hook up to the MiFi 2352′s connection and leave you to focus on what it actually was you wanted the internet for.  We’re not sure on UK pricing for the 2352 (nor US pricing for the 2372) but importer Mobilx.hu are offering it, unlocked, for €220 including tax ($315/£186) and in Spain Telefonica are charging €29 or €59 per month.  Considering you can realistically replace a smartphone data package, and multiple traditional USB or PC Card modem contracts, for just one MiFi connection, road warriors and traveling families could do a lot worse than checking out the 2352.  Its certainly found a permanent place in our kit bag.

Novatel Wireless MiFi 2352 unboxing video:

Unboxing video after the cut

As with the Sprint and Verizon models, the concept behind the MiFi 2352 is simple: pay for one 3G mobile broadband connection, and share it between your various WiFi-enabled devices.  The MiFi 2352 supports triband HSPA (900/1900/2100MHz) and quadband GPRS/EDGE (850/900/1800/1900MHz) together with A-GPS, WiFi b/g and WEP/WPA/WPA2 security.  There’s also a microSDHC slot, which you can use to share files between the WiFi clients.

Novatel are particularly proud of the MiFi’s ability to quickly serve up a landing page.  The complexity of that page depends on the carrier: Sprint and Verizon have used the default setup system (and Verizon also use a connection manager, though Sprint’s MiFi does without) whereas Telefonica have gone one step further and created a new landing page with full microSDHC access, shortcuts to the carrier’s support pages and widgets.  Right now the widgets include geotagging and geosearch, but Novatel talked about cloud-based storage back at CES and it seems likely that an enabling widget for that will arrive soon enough.

Where the MiFi 2352 differs from the Sprint and Verizon 2200 models is in its application capacity.  Novatel have given the GSM model a separate Linux OS, application processor with memory, and flash storage; these mean that the MiFi 2352 can host and run third-party applications, accessible to each of the WiFi-connected clients.  Alcatel-Lucent were the first to announce an app for MiFi, a version of their Nonstop Laptop Guardian software for enterprise users that allows system admins to remotely manage, monitor and even freeze users’ computers and mobile devices.  Novatel themselves will be supplying a basic VPN client that can be run on the MiFi 2352 itself.

It’s early days for the MiFi 2352′s app capabilities, but from talking with Novatel it seems they have big plans for the platform.  They’ve obviously thought carefully about which OS to put on the hotspot, to give their developer partners the best start; interestingly, while the current device does not yet support it, the company told us that the MiFi has been designed with a mind for future Android compatibility.  It’s not difficult to envisage plenty of scenarios where an always-connected 3G device capable of sharing information with a variety of WiFi clients could be deployed, and we’ve high hopes for the “intelligent” direction Novatel plan to take the MiFi in.

First-impressions of the MiFi 2352 specifically are, as with other models, very good.  It’s surprisingly light, at 81g – it feels as though there’s no battery inside – and setup is as straightforward as powering it on, waiting for the LED status light to indicate a connection, and then connect via WiFi from your laptop, netbook, smartphone, PSP or whatever other device you want to use.  We’ll have our full review once we’ve had the chance to put the MiFi 2352 through its paces; until then, enjoy the unboxing video and gallery below.