Along with the desktop updates, Apple has also updated the AirPort Extreme and Time Capsule network base stations. AirPort Extreme is a 802.11n router, while the Time Capsule adds a server grade hard drive to make it a wireless backup solution.
The big new feature in both of them is dual-band support, for simultaneous N and G compatibility. Previously, if you wanted to connect to a 2.4Ghz G device like an iPhone, the rest of your devices also had to connect at G speeds. Now your Macs can communicate in N while your iPhone and other G devices can chug along at G.
This update also brings in a new feature Apple calls ‘Guest Networking’. It is now possible to set-up a separate Wi-Fi network (with its own unique password) for your guests or frequent visitors. They’ll be able to use your internet, without having access to private parts of your network such as shared hard-drives, computers or even printers.
Apple has also added the ability to now access the files on a shared drive over the internet, if you have a shared drive connected. Both devices still don’t feature the innovating AirTunes feature that is exclusive only to the Airport Express.
The Time Capsule costs $299 for the 500GB model, and $399 for the 1TB model. The AirPort Extreme on the other hand goes at $159.
{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
I wish they’d update the Airport Extreme to have Airtunes also. In the meantime, I have to run two routers so I can stream my audio, and let my 360 and Blu-Ray player on the internet.
I just ordered one of the new Time Capsules. I love the idea of having access to my backups through Mobile Me (and predicted this a long time ago). I also like the guest wifi access as well as the dual band for use with my iPhone of course. Nice update Apple, this is now officially a necessity around here. One less My Passport to carry around!
Whats so serious ‘an update’ with Time Capsule? Duh! Aiport Extreme goes definitely better, but as Phil said, Airtunes not on a more expensive loaded router is so sick!
You don’t understand how important the dual band functionality is with these new routers. Imagine having to run your ENTIRE network in G mode because you have a G iPhone or a G Printer (this case is directly pulled out of @aryayush’s whining).
Moreover, the sharing files over the internet is also pretty cool. We’ll have to see how well that works, although, since the Time Capsule itself is the router, I don’t see it having any issues connecting to MobileMe.
I think I might get one of these AEBS for myself…
@bikalpa The new features are what’s so good with the new Time Capsule. Having AirTunes on the unit doesn’t make much sense since it’s unlikely to fit near both your modem and your speakers. Express’ are so great because they are so tiny (though the price of those here went up, is that the same everywhere else?).
Matt, I have my router and speakers both on my entertainment center. Didn’t feel like getting a wireless adapter for my 360, and ethernet is the only option for my BluRay player. While this may not be for everyone, I’m sure there are plenty of us that would like to be able to use just 1 router. I already have enough stuff plugged into that outlet.
@phil I guess I see your point, but it’s a pretty unusual setup I would say. I have my router in the same room as one of my main speakers, but there is no way I could get them near each other, and I thought that was unusual.
The Extremes update is a worthy one, the dual band thing will really help us mobile users.
Why didnt Apple put the black logo on it too??