Andy’s Tech Blog

Three are launching their MiFi device on 17th September 2009.  So what is it and why do I care I hear you ask?  Well it is basically a self contained, battery powered 3G Modem with a built in WiFi Access Point allowing any device with WiFi to access the Internet via Three’s 3G Mobile Broadband.  Giving around 5 hours of life it recharges via USB.

So take an iPod Touch, Sony PSP, or a Nintendo DSi and off you go your own WiFi access point wherever you want one.  Out and about with your Laptop or NetBook then no troublesome 3G Dongle installation and configuration.  Forget about nasty proprietary access software, just get online whenever and wherever you have a 3G signal.

I can’t wait to get hold of one of these!

I have been a fan of these little white boxes for a while now. The idea is that you buy one of their WiFi Access Points (either €14.95 or €39.90) which have two separate secure WiFi signals, one for your own personal use and one which is available for public use.

Anyone who is already a member of the Fon community can use another users public signal for free. Anyone else can make use of this public signal by paying Fon a fee (as you would with any commercial Hotspot) which you would receive a percentage of.

You get the best of both worlds, free worldwide WiFi access from other “Foneros” when you are away from home. And a possible income from your own Hotspot with minimal effort required on your part. Fifty percent of the net revenue from your Hotspot is paid straight into your PayPal account.

You also have the option of allowing anybody to access the public signal for free if you are feeling particularly community spirited.