The discontinued Harman Spark was a unique AT&T OBD2 hotspot, providing in-car Wi-Fi and vehicle telematics. While no longer available for purchase, this review examines its features, specifications, and explores modern alternatives for those seeking a connected car solution.
What Was the AT&T Harman Spark?
The Harman Spark was a small device that plugged directly into a vehicle’s OBD-II port. This transformed the car into a Wi-Fi hotspot, supporting up to 8 devices. Beyond Wi-Fi, it enabled features like emergency assistance, fleet management, and vehicle tracking. It was designed for vehicles manufactured in 1996 or later that lacked built-in connected car services.
Data plans varied, starting at $10/month for basic telematics without Wi-Fi. Plans with data included 5GB for $25/month and 10GB for $40/month. An unlimited data option was briefly available but has since been discontinued. Significantly, the Spark’s terms of service restricted its use to vehicles, with automatic Wi-Fi shutoff after 30 minutes of inactivity. Two versions existed: an initial model and a later version with support for AT&T’s FirstNet band 14.
Harman Spark Specifications:
- Model Numbers: HSA-15UA-AA (original), HAS-15UA-BR (FirstNet)
- Wi-Fi Capacity: 8 devices
- USB Tethering: No
- Network Compatibility: 4G LTE (Bands 2, 4, 5, 12, 17; Band 14 on newer model)
- LTE Category: Cat 4 (150 Mbps downlink / 50 Mbps uplink theoretical maximum)
- Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), 2.4 GHz
- Power Source: OBD-II port (no battery)
- Dimensions: 2.95″ x 2.06″ x 1.13″
- SIM Card Type: Micro
Why Was the Harman Spark Discontinued?
While the official reason for discontinuation isn’t explicitly stated, the rise of more versatile mobile hotspots and increasing demand for 5G connectivity likely contributed. The Spark’s limitations, such as vehicle-only use and the lack of 5G, may have made it less competitive in the evolving mobile internet landscape. Furthermore, many newer vehicles now come equipped with built-in Wi-Fi hotspots and telematics services, reducing the need for an aftermarket solution like the Spark.
Modern Alternatives to the AT&T OBD2 Hotspot:
For those seeking similar functionality, consider these alternatives:
- Dedicated Mobile Hotspots: Devices like the Netgear Nighthawk M7 Pro or Inseego MiFi X Pro offer 5G speeds, greater flexibility, and can be used in any location with cellular coverage.
- Built-in Car Wi-Fi: Many new car models offer integrated Wi-Fi hotspots as either standard or optional features. Check with your vehicle manufacturer for availability.
- Smartphone Tethering: Most smartphones can share their cellular data connection via Wi-Fi, creating a temporary hotspot. However, this can drain your phone’s battery faster.
Conclusion:
The AT&T Harman Spark OBD2 hotspot offered a convenient way to connect cars, but its limitations and eventual discontinuation paved the way for more versatile solutions. Today’s market offers superior alternatives for in-car and on-the-go connectivity, primarily through dedicated mobile hotspots and built-in vehicle systems. Choosing the right solution depends on individual needs and vehicle compatibility. If you’re seeking an OBD2 specific solution, consult with a qualified automotive technician for compatible telematics devices.
