In his most recent Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman pondered whether Apple should start selling wireless routers again.
In the ‘90s, Apple built its credentials as one of the first major proponents of consumer-grade wireless Internet with the AirPort Base Station, which broke cover alongside the iBook laptop in 1999. Now, some users believe it is time for Apple to reinvest in this sector, utilising the HomePod to deliver wireless Internet.
With the AirPort range of routers having been discontinued in 2018, Gurman has suggested that Apple could put similar technology into a HomePod mini.
“It would make sense,” Gurman reasoned, explaining that “Apple already wants users to buy a speaker for every room, and integrating Wi-Fi into that would make it a bit more compelling.” He pointed out that Google has already been taking this route with its most recent Nest routers.
Alternatively, he suggested, Apple could simply come up with its own “full-blown mesh router system” incorporating the Cupertino company’s own software and deep device integration, which he said could help prevent buyers from choosing offerings from rivals like Amazon and Alphabet.
Could such a trip back to its own past be one of the very things that places Apple a step ahead of its competitors in the future? It’s certainly an appetising thought.