Netgear has a new mobile router in the pipeline called the Nighthawk M1. They claim that it’s the first of its kind to support download speeds of 1Gbps and is aimed at those without access to conventional fiber broadband.

Using a Qualcomm-supplied X16 LTE modem, the Nighthawk M1 can be used as a conventional router with its GbE port and USB headers, a network-attached storage device thanks to its microSD card slot and its 5040mAH battery gives it portability. Up to 20 devices can connect at one time and there are apps for both Android and iOS that allow management of the router.

For now, this modem is exclusively available on Australian carrier Telstra’s network. Its hefty price tag of US$276 might keep it away from developing countries like ours, but if something like this were to be repackaged by one of Malaysia’s local carriers, we could have a viable broadband solution for those outside the Klang Valley. That is, if the carriers are willing to invest in 4G coverage.