Apple’s AirPort Revival: Routers Could Return Via HomePod, Apple TV

Apple may be poised to re-enter the Wi-Fi router market, but not in the way many expect. The tech giant is reportedly exploring turning existing devices into wireless access points.

Apple’s New Chip Could Transform Devices

In December, Mark Gurman of Bloomberg reported that Apple is designing its own Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip. This chip is slated to premiere later this year in new Apple TV and HomePod mini models.

According to Gurman, the custom chip is “so sophisticated” that it could “theoretically” turn these devices into a wireless access point. However, he cautioned against getting hopes up too high. It remains to be seen whether Apple will actually implement this feature.

The latest Apple devices are expected to have significant upgrades. In fact, approximately 33% of U.S. households now use smart-home devices (Statista 2024).

Wi-Fi 7 on the Horizon?

Gurman indicated that Apple’s chip will support Wi-Fi 6E. The final AirPort models supported what is now known as Wi-Fi 5. In contrast, supply chain analyst Jeff Pu suggests the chip will actually support the newer Wi-Fi 7 standard.

AirPort’s Discontinuation and Possible Re-Entry

Apple’s AirPort line, which included the AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, and AirPort Time Capsule, was discontinued in 2018. These devices provided Wi-Fi routing and, in the case of the Time Capsule, external storage for Mac backups.

The Future of Apple as a Router Provider

While it is uncertain whether the Apple TV and HomePod will gain routing capabilities, Apple is clearly working on the underlying technology. This opens the door for Apple to offer innovative solutions in the home networking space.