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Basis of Presentation Narrative (Details)
$ in Thousands
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2016
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2015
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2016
USD ($)
Segments
Sep. 30, 2015
USD ($)
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]        
Net loss attributable to Novatel Wireless, Inc. | $ $ (18,567) $ (20,847) $ (33,172) $ (37,893)
Number of reportable segments | Segments     1