Novatel signs Eastern Europe deal for MiFi hotspot

LONDON, July 8 (Reuters) - Modem maker Novatel Wireless (NVTL.O) has signed a deal to sell its MiFi mobile hotspot throughout central and eastern Europe and the Middle East with mobile distributor Mobilx, it said in a statement on Wednesday.

Novatel is the first company to offer such mobile hotspots, pocket-sized modules that connect up to five wifi-enabled devices such as laptops, music players or gaming consoles through a single 3G mobile connection, including in moving vehicles.

Earlier this year, the company announced a deal to sell the MiFi with U.S. operator Sprint Nextel (S.N) for $99.99 with a two-year contract. It aims to sell the MiFi to small businesses and enterprises as well as consumers.

Mobilx, which sells through a network of resellers and online, will sell the MiFi for $229. (Reporting by Georgina Prodhan; Editing by Jon Loades-Carter)