Sprint follows Verizon in MiFi game

Following a similar move by Verizon Wireless, Sprint Nextel announced that it will launch a MiFi device from Novatel Wireless that allows users to connect multiple devices to a 3G connection via WiFi. Verizon said earlier this month it will sell the device.

[1]The MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot will use Sprint's EV-DO Rev. A network to create a personal WiFi cloud that can connect up to five WiFi-enabled devices. Sprint is selling the device for the same price as Verizon--$100 with a new two-year contract and after a $50 mail-in rebate.   

However, the service plans are different between the two carriers. Sprint is offering customers two different options: either a $60 per month mobile broadband-only plan or a $150 per month Simply Everything plan and mobile broadband.

Verizon's plans center on usage. Verizon said it will offer a $40 monthly plan for 250 MB of data, or a $60 plan for up to 5 GB of data. Verizon customers will be able to sign up for 24-hour access for a $15 fee.

Verizon will launch the device May 17. Sprint will launch in the first week of June.

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[1]Related Articles:
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WiFi becoming valuable customer retention tool [3]
Will the next BlackBerry Storm include WiFi [4]?
Study: Smartphones users prefer WiFi over 3G [5]
WiFi [6]: More relevant than ever
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