Novatel Wireless on Tuesday announced it will soon release the MiFi range of portable wireless routers, or what it also calls Intelligent Mobile Hotspots, which promise to deliver wireless 3G data network access to multiple users within a small area. The MiFi, which is about the size of a credit card, allows users to pick from access to EVDO Rev. A or HSPA high-speed data networks. The MiFi products are also open platform, and therefore capable of running flexible applications depending on particular needs.

The MiFi products will sport a four-hour battery life and more than 40 hours of standby time, Novatel claims. The company suggests it as useful for a morning commute in a carpool, where passengers can access the Internet over the cellular connection via just one MiFi device. Some of the devices based on the platform can run applications such as auto VPN, automatic syncing of e-mail and, as an option, remote management capabilities for IT managers.

The MiFi routers will launch in the first half of 2009 and be sold via wireless carriers as well as Novatel itself. Exactly whom Novatel will partner with is unknown, and prices have not been announced.