# Plug-In Long-Range Wi-Fi Morse Micro's USB Dongles Add Wi-Fi HaLow to Existing Devices By Mursal Rahman | Written with AI assistance | Published 2026-09-03 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/Plug-in-long-range-Wi-Fi References: [iot-now](https://iot-now.com/2026/08/24/158025-morse-micro-announces-two-wi-fi-halow-usb-dongle-reference-designs-to-enable-long-range-edge-ai-connectivity/) & [morsemicro](https://www.morsemicro.com/news/morse-micro-announces-two-wi-fi-halow-usb-dongle-reference-designs-to-enable-long-range-edge-ai-connectivity)  Plug-in long-range Wi-Fi is making extended connectivity easier to add to existing devices as Morse Micro introduces two [Wi-Fi HaLow USB Dongle](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/plugables) Reference Designs. Powered by the company’s [MM8108 SoC](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/specialized-microchip), the dongles can provide native IP connectivity at distances of up to one kilometer. The MM8108-RD09 supports routers, access points and computers through compatible drivers, while the MM8108-RD17 appears as a standard Ethernet interface, allowing devices including industrial computers, robotics, tablets and phones to connect without host driver installation. For Morse Micro, the reference designs could accelerate Wi-Fi HaLow adoption by reducing the need for manufacturers and service providers to develop entirely new connected hardware. Existing routers and devices can instead gain [longer-range connectivity through USB integration](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/netgear-exs27). This approach could lower development barriers while expanding potential applications across industrial automation, large properties and IoT deployments where conventional Wi-Fi coverage may be limited. Image Credit: Morse Micro ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.6/10 - Popularity: 51% | Activity: 56% | Freshness: 91% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Plug-in Connectivity:** USB-based networking modules create a faster path for legacy hardware to gain modern wireless capabilities without full device redesigns. - **Long-range Iot:** Kilometer-scale Wi-Fi HaLow access expands connected sensing and automation across factories, farms, campuses and large properties where standard Wi-Fi is constrained. - **Driverless Device Integration:** Ethernet-emulating dongles reduce compatibility friction by allowing diverse devices to access extended wireless networks through familiar interfaces. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Industrial Automation:** Extended wireless links support flexible machine monitoring, robotics coordination and sensor deployment in facilities where cabling and conventional Wi-Fi coverage are limiting factors. - **Telecommunications:** Service providers gain new potential to extend IP connectivity across hard-to-reach sites using add-on hardware rather than purpose-built infrastructure. - **Smart Property Management:** Large residential, commercial and agricultural properties can benefit from simplified network expansion for security systems, environmental sensors and connected maintenance tools. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Robust 5G Travel Hotspots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/netgear-nighthawk-5g-m7.md) - [Rugged Communication Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/terra-m.md) - [High-Performance WiFi 8 Routers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tplink-archer-8.md) - [Next-Gen Intelligent CPE Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/reference-design.md) - [Efficient Indoor Routers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/indoor-router.md) - [Energy-Efficient Outdoor Gateways](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wirnet-istation.md) - [Checkpoint Communication Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mesh89.md) - [Professional Wireless Intercom Solutions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wireless-intercom-solution.md) - [Next-Generation Enterprise Wireless Lineups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wireless-lineups.md)