Milenas: Tiny NAS with WiFi and up to 2TB launches on Kickstarter

A new Kickstarter campaign for a particularly compact network attached storage device has kicked off. The Milenas NAS measures only 3.6 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches and weighs just 1.8 oz. It’s powered by an MT7628 SoC, which is paired with somewhat paltry 256MB of memory. The internal storage is limited to 8GB, but depending on the configuration, up to 2TB of additional storage capacity is available for user data.

The manufacturer further specifies a data transfer rate of up to 300Mbps. The NAS can access networks via WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, there’s no traditional Ethernet port. The Milenas is also powered via USB with 5V and 1A. Additionally, the portable NAS supports the SMB protocol and can be used by different users thanks to individual profiles, even though specific folders can be accessed by everyone. This could be useful on a family vacation, to name just one example.

No app is required in order to use the Milenas NAS, devices can be linked via a simple QR code. In addition to local data transfers, this gadget also supports various cloud storage services. It can also be used to automatically back up photos and videos from smartphones, for instance. For bigger files, the Milenas can be connected to laptops via USB. Alternatively, USB Ethernet dongles should also work.

The Milenas supports OpenWrt, and there appear to be no restrictions in terms of software support, at least from the manufacturer's side. Kickstarter backers are currently promised a unit in return for a pledge of around $109 plus $15 in shipping fees. First deliveries are expected to arrive in November. The usual financial risks of crowdfunding campaigns apply and might be a significant factor in this case.

As a possible alternative, check out the Synology Beedrive on Amazon.