Google launches stylish OnHub router

Routers generally are either meh or WTF when it comes to looks. You either want to hide them or want them in plain sight so you can keep an eye on them just in case they decide to wreak havoc. The new one from Google, however, is almost pretty.

This new addition from Google is called the OnHub Wi-Fi router. Its tidy looks are down to it featuring internal antennas but it also sports some subtle lighting.

It kinda reminds me of a rounder Sonoro GoLondon radio.

According to Google, it “starts fast and stays fast” and, as it learns your bevhaiour its performance is said to improve over time – depending on whether you find your router becoming a bit of a stalker a good thing or not.

One neat feature that is becoming standard on decent routers is the ability to prioritise devices. Want it to connect quicker to your telly so you can stream in HD or 4K? Just set it as your priority device.

Google says that

A unique antenna design and smart software keep working in the background, automatically adjusting OnHub to avoid interference and keep your network at peak performance.”

The OnHub stands 7.5-inches and is 4.6-inches wide. Inside lives a 1.4Ghz Dual Core processor and it is packing a single USB3.0 port. The lighting comes courtesy of six tri-colour arrays.

Wi-Fi is covered with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies.

You can also manage it using the Google On companion app for iOS or Android. This lets you check the bandwidth, run network checks and troubleshoot connection problems.

Google wants you to share the love and from that same app you are able to grab the router’s password and text it to friends instead of holding the router up and shouting the password to them.

The OnHub is available to pre-order in blue or black over in the US now, and costs $199. There’s no word on a UK release as yet.

[youtube id=”HNnfHP7VDP8″]