The new ZTE hotspot has a 5,000mAh battery, WiFi 6 and support for up to 16 connected devices.
ZTE has opened pre-orders for the M3 Pro 5G portable WiFi hotspot in China. The device is priced at 599 yuan, around $90, and will go on regular sale on September 24.
The M3 Pro 5G is designed for users who need a dedicated internet connection while travelling or working away from home. It supports 5G connectivity along with 4G and 3G networks.
ZTE M3 Pro 5G specifications
The portable hotspot uses an unnamed octa-core processor based on a 6nm process. It supports both Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G networks.
ZTE has equipped the device with a nine-antenna array for improved signal stability. It also supports 4×4 MIMO on selected 5G bands, including n1, n3, n41 and n78.
The company claims download speeds of up to 500Mbps under laboratory conditions. Actual speeds may vary based on network coverage, carrier conditions and other factors.
For local wireless connections, the device supports WiFi 6. It works on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and can connect up to 16 devices at the same time.
Compatible Android phones can also use the built-in NFC feature. Users can tap their phone against the hotspot to connect without manually entering a WiFi password.
5,000mAh battery offers up to 14.5 hours
The ZTE M3 Pro 5G packs a 5,000mAh battery. ZTE estimates around 14.5 hours of battery life under normal usage.
The device measures 149 × 70 × 12.5mm. ZTE also claims that its 2.4GHz wireless signal can reach up to 220 metres in open conditions without walls or major interference.
Some versions of the hotspot support multiple 5G SIM cards. Users can manually switch between supported carriers when their current network has poor coverage.
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Smart Life app and upcoming features
The M3 Pro 5G can be managed through the ZTE Smart Life app. The app includes features such as firewall controls, data usage tracking, device blacklisting and guest network management.
ZTE plans to release another software update in October 2026. The update is expected to add a high-speed rail mode designed to help maintain connectivity while travelling by train.
The company also plans to add a gaming acceleration plugin for China Mobile users.
India availability remains unclear
ZTE has announced the M3 Pro 5G for the Chinese market, with regular sales scheduled to begin on September 24. The company has not provided availability or pricing details for India in the information provided.
The portable WiFi segment is also seeing new products from other brands. Huawei has introduced an affordable eSIM portable WiFi device with up to nine hours of battery life and support for 16 devices. Lenovo has also introduced the Legion LM50S with WiFi 6, 4G LTE and up to 12 hours of battery life.
For now, ZTE’s M3 Pro 5G remains confirmed for the Chinese market, while details about an Indian launch have yet to be announced.
