This article was published on June 11, 2012

Apple’s new AirPort Express will do simultaneous 2.4 and 5 GHz connections, look like an Apple TV


Apple’s new AirPort Express will do simultaneous 2.4 and 5 GHz connections, look like an Apple TV

It’s been a big day for Apple, as the 2012 WWDC kicked off with the keynote and a massive amount of new releases. But there’s a smaller item that you might overlook if you’re not careful, so we wanted to tell you about that. Apple is revamping its AirPort Express router with simultaneous dual-band support.

Why is this important? Well, it’s really a matter of crowding spaces. As we get more devices using the 2.4 GHz spectrum, and comparatively few using the 5 GHz, that lower end is getting noisy. Other household wireless devices such as landline cordless telephones, microwaves and even some refrigerators operate on that 2.4 GHz line and signal degradation follows.

With the new AirPort Express, you’ll be able to run simultaneous 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz connections, so that your newer devices won’t have to step down and your older ones will work just fine. You’ll also be freeing up spectrum space, which should lead to more stable connections.

The new device carries the same $100 price tag, and it’s available to order right now.

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