Google OnHub
Why is there a vase in this magazine?
That’s no vase. It’s actually a wireless router for use in the home. Dubbed Google OnHub, it’s the latest product fromthe search engine giant.That can’t be a wireless router because itdoesn’t look like a rejected piece of military hardware. OnHub’s slick looks are one of its big selling points. The antennae are usually on display, but here they’re concealed within its cylindrical housing. And rather than featuring more blinking lights than a town-centre Christmas tree, its status is reflected via a subtle glowing ring on top. Is setting it up needlessly complex, likemost wireless routers?
No, and this is another of its advantages. Connect it to your phone line and turn it on and the rest is handled via a simple smartphone app. You can also use this to allocate bandwidth, so your streaming TV series can take priority over your kid’s shoot ‘em up. How does the OnHub compare with anormal router?
Pretty favourably. In reviews its ease of use is matched by decent range and fast speeds. It’s also future-proof, so it’ll handle Bluetooth Smart Ready, Weave, and 802.15.4 – the technologies that will power internet-connected smart homes.
When can I get one?
Google hasn’t announced a UK release date and price for OnHub yet, but it’s available in the US for $200 (£130). There will be more coming soon, too – this one’s manufactured by TP-Link, but Asus has partnered with Google for another router later this year. Maybe it’ll look like abowl of potpourri.
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