Stay connected while travelling with Java Mifi
Stay connected while travelling with Java Mifi
Stay connected while travelling with Java Mifi
- Ability to roam in up to 150 countries across all continents
- Aims to add North Korea and the Maldives in its list
INDONESIA-based Java Mifi provides pocket WiFi rental for outbound and inbound trips. Founded in 2015, Java Mifi focused on providing portable devices for inbound travellers to Indonesia before adding outbound services in 2017.
“We saw the demand from people renting our devices rise 20% to 30% per year which shows that people need an internet connection when they travel,” said Java Mifi founder Andintya Maris (pic, above).
Java Mifi uses virtual SIM technology, and the device will be activated automatically when users reach their destination country. They do not need to switch their SIM cards.
“We work with two local operators in 150 countries on all continents,” says Andintya.
The device has a 5,000mAh battery that lasts for 12 to 15 hours. It is able to connect to up to five devices and also works as a power bank.
Users can book the devices through Java Mifi’s website before they depart and they will be available for pickup at Jakarta, Surabaya, Bali, Lombok, and Bandung’s airports. They also provide same day delivery services.
For outbound devices, Java Mifi offers three different models which will determine its latency to receive networks in a destination country.
“As an example, one of these devices works better in Japan, meanwhile the other works better in Europe. We have tested it out and also provide guarantees, refunds, and 24-hour customer services.”
Users will be charged between 40 thousand rupiah (US$2.80) to 100 thousand rupiah (US$7.20) daily depending on their destination. Java Mifi also provides bundle packages for backpackers.
In terms of business growth, Java Mifi has seen a growth of 60% to 70% from 2016 to 2018.
For inbound travellers, Java Mifi has the most users in Jakarta and Bali, while for outbound, users come largely from Jakarta and Surabaya heading to Japan and Europe.
“The growth is driven by the rise in the overall number of devices we have which is 5,000 to 6,000 devices. Seventy to 80% of these will be used for outbound trips. We work closely with banks to offer special deals.”
Andintya faces challenges in terms of educating the market about portable WiFi and how it will provide convenience in staying connected when travelling.
“But, when people use and are aware of our product, it will become a need.”
She aims to be able to add more outbound destination countries such as North Korea and the Maldives in the near future.
“Although it will be challenging, we see that there are not many players who are tapping into these two places.”
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