Google has announced a new smart Wi-Fi router called OnHub. It aims to provide fast Wi-Fi performance, specially when using streaming services, using smart software and an innovative circular antenna for better coverage. The router ships with the Google On app which helps to diagnose issues, perform easy setup and create/share passwords.
Why Google OnHub Wi-Fi Router?
Priced at $200, Google OnHub Wi-Fi router is not the cheapest option available around but it makes big promises of performance, ease of use, smart software, future compatibility, on-going firmware updates and much more. The price might seem expensive but Apple’s comparable Wi-Fi router, Airport Extreme is also priced at $200.
Technically, Google OnHub is compatible with 802.11a/b/g/n/ac and supports 1900Mbps speed throughput at 2.4GHz and 5 GHz. This means that any past, current and future devices would work well with it. Google OnHub also takes care of Internet of Things standards such as Bluetooth® Smart Ready, Weave, and 802.15.4 so you would not have to buy a separate hub to work with them. A circular antenna and automatic and manual prioritisation of devices ensures that bandwidth is utilised at its best efficiency and there is no buffering during streaming.
With 4GB of on board storage, Google OnHub will be ready for future software updates and new features. It also has a USB 3.0 port so you should be able to add storage or a shared printer to your home network. LAN port, WAN port, a 3W speaker (to send an audio tone to your mobile device for quick setup) and a 4 color ambient light sensor round up the rest of the external hardware features.
The Google On app will be available for both iOS and Android to help users diagnose network issues, run speed tests and configure the network remotely or from home. Google also claims that upto 128 devices can simultaneously use the router, including TVs, laptops, tablets, smartphones and smart devices.
The router is available for pre-order from Google Store, TP-Link Store, Amazon, Frys, Newegg and Wallamart and will start shipping in the next couple of weeks.
