By: MarkJ - 17 August, 2010 (1:49 AM) - Score: 9828 - Wi-Fi, Mobile Broadband

Mobile operator Vodafone UK has finally launched its own portable battery powered Wi-Fi Mobile Broadband USB Modem router (Vodafone Mobile Wi-Fi R201), which others prefer to call MiFi. The device will allow up to five people to simultaneously connect to the internet over the Vodafone network. Three (3) mobile offers something similar.

Available FREE on a £25, 18 month price plan including 5GB of monthly Mobile Broadband data usage, the new device makes it possible for Wi-Fi enabled products, such as laptops and tablet PCs, games consoles and music players, to simultaneously access the internet through a single Vodafone Mobile Broadband connection.

Eagle eyed readers will note that an earlier version of this device was first touted in September last year (here, including a video), albeit only for business customers in Germany, Romania and Spain. The updated UK version, despite being one year late, adds a display screen to provide information about the type and strength of signal available, Wi-Fi connectivity and battery life. MicroDS card support is also present.