Google has overnight announced a new router called OnHub, which is being produced with their partner TP-LINK, that’s designed to ease those Wi-Fi connection headache’s such as spotty connections, and be ‘fast, secure, and easy to use’.
The router is designed to be better looking than your average router which for the most part, is usually a fairly bland box with antennas hanging off them that you usually stick out of sight. Google has worked with TP-Link to use internal antennas to bring a unique design for OnHub, that means you’ll be willing to leave it out in the open – where routers work best.
The OnHub also has less blinking lights than your average router, with ‘useful lighting’ included.
The OnHub will feature easy setup, with an app – available on iOS and Android – that will make it simple to set up and manage your Wi-Fi connection. There are diagnostic tools, an option to select preferred connections and you’ll even be able to send your Wi-Fi password to friends with a simple tap.
Google has designed OnHub to be somewhat future-proof, with firmware updates and security patches automatically updated on the device. The OnHub will also support a range of smart devices using a wide range of technology including Bluetooth Smart Ready, Weave, or 802.15.4.
The OnHub is available for pre-order for US$199.99 from online retailers in the US only for now, though it will be heading to physical stores in Canada and the US in the coming weeks. Availability will also extend later in the year with a planned partnership with Asus.
We hope to see these in Australia, but it’s not likely in the near future, so hit up your friendly shipping forwarder and grab one.
Update:
We reached out to Google Australia regarding whether they will be bringing the OnHub router to Australia in its current form or when Asus release their version later this year and they advised:
There’s no timeline for Australia at the moment.
Your netgear/d-link are always wanting you to buy their expensive networking boxes … some designs are out there.
At USD199 this is still a fairly expensive unit, especially for a TP-Link.
So its got a load of antennas, other built in standards etc… how does this compare to the other suppliers, is this a $300+ unit from them?
Its only a router too, so still need a standalone modem.
But i can see this helping google push its internet of things for the home with Weave etc.
Dan, did someone say Nexus router?
Anyone else notice the Cloudy with a chance of meatballs frame shown on the TV is where he’s loading a load of Marshmallows?