OnHub, the app-controlled Wi-Fi router and smart home hub that was unveiled by Google recently, is now up for preorder through a variety of channels.
The OnHub is Google's solution to make Wi-Fi access easier for customers, with 13 internal antennas that replace the cables and wires found in traditional routers. The router casts signals that detect the best channel for broadcasting automatically, with one of the OnHub's antennas measuring the congestion of networks to make the OnHub distribute the bandwidth across several devices and then prioritize a specific device, which should come in handy for Netflix marathons.
The OnHub can now be preordered for $199.99, with Google's webpage for the router listing six channels through which customers can place their preorder. Specifically, the channels are the Google Store, the TP-Link Store, Amazon, Frys, Newegg and Walmart.
However, the OnHub only comes in blue for preorders channeled through Amazon, Frys, Newegg and Walmart. For black models of the OnHub, customers will have to order through the online store of either Google or TP-Link, which is Google's partner for the router.
While the website indicates no definite date for the availability of the OnHub, only stating that it will be available in the coming weeks, the listing of the router on the other retail websites indicate availability and shipping commencing on either Aug. 31 or Sept. 1.
The OnHub is managed by users through the Google On app which is available for both iOS and Android devices. The device also comes lights in four different colors depending on the status of the Wi-Fi network. If the network has no issues, the lights are green. However, if there is an issue the lights are orange. In such a situation, users can launch the Google On app to check the problem. The app can then assist the user in troubleshooting the Wi-Fi network, and will provide additional information to solve the issue.
The router will also automatically update with security upgrades and additional features without causing any interruptions to the Wi-Fi network.
OnHub will work with any broadband connection, be it cable, Fiber or DSL, with any major Internet service providers. The router can support up to a whopping 128 connections simultaneously.
