Nova media (http://www.novamedia.de/index_e.html) has unveiled the XYFI, a 3G wireless router built by the Belgium company Option. The router -- available now for approximately US$235 -- offers Wi-Fi access for up to eight users simultaneously and supports a 3G Internet connection with up to 14.4 Mbit/s download speeds.

XYFI is powered by any given USB port with at least 5V/1 amp output power, e.g. by a smartphone power adapter or by an USB port in a car. A dedicated software or driver installation isn't required to configure or use the XYFI.

"The XYFI is configured through any web browser," says Jan Fuellemann, nova media spokesperson. "For smartphones and tablets, a customized web interface is provided. In addition, the XYFI can be used as a standard 3G modem or WiFi modem for OS X and Windows computers."

The built in 3G modem allows connections with up to 14.4 Mbit/s download and up to 5.76 Mbit/s upload speeds. The router isn't SIM locked and can be used in all 3G networks with support of 900, 1900 und 2100 MHz frequencies. For GRPS and EDGE, all 850-, 900-, 1800- und 1900 MHz frequencies are supported. The WiFi part is compatible to 802.11 b/g networks with up to 54 Mbit/s.

The integrated microSD-card slot allows users to share and stream data from a microSD-card. A retractable USB connector offers protection when the XYFI isn't in use.

XYFI uses WPA, WPA2, WEP for security and supports WPS. The web interface can be used to set up a guest account which requires an additional password for the use of the hot spot.