Mobile Hotspot iPod

A New 150Mbps Mobile Wireless N Router was Launched by TRENDnet

The top-of-the-line name in wired and wireless networking hardware, TRENDnet, instigated the a brand new model of 150Mbps Mobile Wireless N Router, it’s the ultra  sleek and compact TEW-655BR3G. By using both traditional and a compatible USB modem from a 3G/4G Internet service provider such as Sprint, AT&T, or Verizon, this Mobile Wireless N Router can be connected to the internet.

With no hassles at all, the 150Mbps Mobile Wireless N Router is devised for individuals who are always on the move. No need for installation. Just plug in 3G/4G USB modem with an active Internet plan with their respective Internet service provider and take pleasure in the fastest and easiest access to the Internet, anytime, anywhere.

Sharing is not also a problem. With a fast shift of a finger, Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) can be integrated to other WPS supported clients. Your files were also protected with the latest wireless encryption.

Rechargeable and replaceable 1.5 hour lithium ion battery pushes the life of the mobile router. Technolgy Director of TRENDnet brandished the amazing and useful fact that the router’s 150Mbps wireless n technology provides generous bandwidth for all connected users.

The new Mobile Wireless N Router will hit the stores on April with a selling price of US $99.99.

iPod Touch + MiFi Mobile Hotsot= “MiFiPod”, a Cool iPhone Alternative

For the North American market, the MiFi was introduced in early 2009 and was licensed for sale by Sprint and Verizon by Novatel.  The MiFi is simply a pocket sized mobile hotspot. Think of it as a roaming WiFi signal that can travel in your pocket. If you don't mind using WiFi at home or the office, imagine beging able to take the WiFi signal "with you".

Everyone loves the iPhone 3G and newer 3GS, but one of the cheif complaints  you hear from owners is the BIG (some say inflated) monthly bill from AT&T, not to mention the less then stellar 3G coverage from AT&T's already overworked and maxed out 3G network. People who want an iPhone have almost no alternative to going the "official" AT&T/Apple route.  As you know, the iPod touch is the little brother of the iPhone. It's 98% similar, with the obvious absense of a cell phone built in. The iPod touch can act pretty much the same as an iPhone when connected to a WiFi signal, but how can you make sure you ALWAYS have a WiFi signal? Keep a MiFi mobile hotspot within 30 feet of the iPod touch, that how. I have a feeling that AT&T does not want iPod touch owners to know about the MiFi mobile hotspot...

One very cool solution is this:

1) Couple the iPod Touch with an external microphone. The "stock" apple earbuds that come with the iPod have a tiny build-in Mic, which works perfect for the iPod Touch. 

2) Install the Skype app on your iPod touch. You can get a dedicated local area code phone number with unlimited calling for around $10 a month with Skype.

3) Buy a Sprint or Verizon MiFi 2200 Mobile Hotspot and subscribe to the data plan.

How does this work? Charge the MiFi and carry it in your pocket - it will be good for 4 hours, likely more than your iPod iteself. The iPod touch will communicate with the MiFi pocket router via its build it WiFi connection. The MiFi will relay your WiFi internet, voice, and SMS to your provicers 3G network. The Verizon MiFi data plan will allow you to make calls over Skype, for all practical purposes, having a true functional "cell phone". The best benefit comes to the cost savings: MiFi plans will cost around $75 per month ($60 monthly fee + about $15 in taxes and fees), while AT&T's average users  iPhone monthly bill is around $112 when taxes and extra fees are levied. The added "bonus" benefit is even cooler - up to four additional people around you within a 30 foot radius can connect to the web thru your MiFi (If you want them to of course!) and access the fast 3G Network over their own WiFi enabled mobile devices. It's a great choice for families - dad on his "MiFipod", and the kids connecting their PSP's and laptops to the web all though a single MiFi while on a long drive to Grandmas house.

The only real disadvantages are that voice calls have to be make thru an external microphone and that you will need to carry two devices. The MiFi itself is only 2 ounces and is about the size of 15 stacked credit cards - I would imagine that the prospects of saving up to 50% on the cost of you iPhone serivice plan AND getting better 3G service far outweights these issues.