Sprint's Overdrive is a super-quick 4G Mobile Hotspot

by Stevie Smith - Jan 7 2010, 09:15

If you’re a tech-savvy consumer looking to make the network leap from 3G to 4G, you’ll probably want to cast an appreciative eye at the Overdrive from Sprint Nextel when it becomes available this January 10.

Described by Sprint as the first 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot to hit U.S. shores, the Overdrive by Sierra Wireless allows users to connect several Wi-Fi-enabled devices to a single shared connection boasting 4G performance that’s up to 10 tens quicker than existing 3G speeds.

“The fact that [the Overdrive] connects up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices is especially meaningful because at 4G speeds, customers can download and upload more data – gigabytes, not megabytes – in a matter of seconds,” enthused Dan Hesse, chief executive at Sprint.

“The Overdrive on the 4G network is made for the multitude of bandwidth-hungry applications customers want to access wirelessly, like video streaming, 4G beats 3G for speed and for value,” he added.

Compatible with notebook computers, gaming devices, digital cameras and even smartphone handsets carried by other operators, the Overdrive works with all operating systems and includes an LCD view screen to communicate device information such as Internet connection status, number of people sharing, and remaining battery life.

Other contributing aspects associated with the Overdrive include built-in Wi-Fi GPS (on 3G), a microSD slot for shared storage between devices, a network range of up to 150 feet, peak 4G download speeds of more than 10Mbps, peak upload speeds of 4Mbps, and average download speeds between 3-6Mbps.

Prospective buyers willing to sign up to Sprint’s high-speed wireless service can secure the Overdrive for $99.99 USD. The mobile 4G hotspot will also be made available through leading American retailer Best Buy.

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