In recent hours, all the news from China seems to revolve around its currency, but this time we have something different. Xiaomi, the local giant that needs to expand to the rest of the world as soon as possible, has unveiled its new Mi Wi-Fi Nano router.
Its compact design makes it incredibly easy to carry, its Micro USB connector allows the use of battery packs, and with an average price of $12, it's very hard to resist...
A compact solution for on-the-go connectivity
Any user who needs to share a Wi-Fi/3G/4G signal or connect to an open network with an extra layer of security outside their home should consider getting a portable router. The market is full of them, and some have managed to redefine the meaning of the word “compact.” There are also virtual alternatives like Connectify Hotspot, but hardware solutions tend to be more complete, and the truth is that their prices are increasingly competitive. If we look East, the cost of certain products borders on the incredible, and at the forefront of that trend is none other than Xiaomi. Cheap TVs, GoPro camera clones and smart TV modules are some of the things we've seen from the company, but today it's the turn of the Mi Wi-Fi Nano.
Design, coverage and connectivity
Xiaomi didn't provide any exact dimensions for the router, but judging by the images, carrying it in your pocket shouldn't be a problem, even with its external antennas. The official announcement promises 150 square meters of coverage with the Mi Wi-Fi Nano, which seems a bit exaggerated, but it's too early to judge. A very interesting aspect of the router is the presence of a Micro USB port. You can connect accessories like battery packs (Xiaomi estimates 30 hours of autonomy with a 10,000 mAh battery), and I imagine a computer could power the Mi Wi-Fi Nano with the right USB cable. It's available in five different colors, and its connectivity reaches the 802.11n standard.
Price and availability
As with other products, Xiaomi placed a lot of emphasis on the price of the Mi Wi-Fi Nano, and it has good reasons to do so. The router will go on sale on August 16 for a mere $12. Unfortunately, the Mi Wi-Fi Nano will be exclusive to China for a while, but we hope to see it in other territories.
