NEC Aterm WM3300R for MiFi-style mobile WiMAX sharing

It packs all the grace of an FM radio, but the NEC Aterm WM3300R distinguishes itself not by aesthetics but by packing a WiMAX radio and WiFi router into a palm-sized device.  Basically a MiFi but for WiMAX rather than 3G connections, the WM3300R offers up to 40Mbps downlinks and up to 10Mbps uplinks, together with a removable 1,880mAh Li-Ion battery.

The device supports WiFi b/g, together with direct USB connections for tethered use, and offers the usual encryption standards so that it's only you taking advantage of the high-speed network.  Sadly there's no 3G/UMTS radio in there to fall back on, should you step out of WiMAX coverage.

You'll also be able to pick up spare batteries for around 5,000 yen ($54), which is probably a good idea as each pack lasts for only 2.5hrs of active use.  Price for the Aterm WM3300R itself is expected to be around 25,000 yen ($272).

[via Akihabara]