The list of devices ranges from dedicated e-readers to advanced GPS units. There will also be more mobile routers, similar to the pocket-sized that can connect up to five Wi-Fi enabled devices to a wireless CDMA 1x EV-Do Rev A network.

Recently, Taiwan-based manufacturer Zyxel Communications Inc. announced a competitor to MiFi called the MWR222, a mobile wireless router that is compatible with faster 802.11n Wi-Fi devices (as well as 802.11b/g) and 3G wireless networks. The device, which is alos pocket-size, will go on sale in the first quarter of 2010 for $300 through various online electronics sites, said Jake Sailana, marketing manager for Zyxel's North America operations.

Two similar mobile wireless routers from Zyxel will go on sale with somewhat different form factors and features for less with prices of $200 and $100, he said.

Zyxel is hopeful it will get wireless carriers to resell the routers to their subscribers, and is also working to sell its products in retail stores, such as Best Buy, Sailana said in an interview.

The MWR222 was named an Innovations Honoree on Nov. 10 by the Consumer Electronics Association, which picked devices in 36 categories that it will display at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in early January.