Owais Crawford
Apple has discontinued its AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, and AirPort Time Capsule Wi-Fi routers, and will no longer be producing replacement parts. While Apple will continue to offer support and parts for current generation AirPort Base Stations for the next five years, there is currently no device that can perform the same functions as an AirPort Express. Customers seeking to replace their AirPort Express can consider a HomePod, a wireless extender, a mesh system, a Bluetooth adapter, or a Chromecast Audio.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Apple Airport Express replacement | Apple is ceasing production of its AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, and AirPort Time Capsule Wi-Fi routers |
| Apple is helping customers obtain service and parts for current generation AirPort Base Stations for the next five years | |
| Apple will be posting knowledge-base articles to help customers transitioning away from AirPort products | |
| Alternatives | HomePod, wireless extender, mesh system, Bluetooth adapter, or Chromecast Audio |
| Ubiquiti devices | |
| Synology RT6600ax router | |
| Motorola MB8611 modem | |
| Eero Pro | |
| TPLink X20 or X60 | |
| Belkin AirPlay | |
| Roku3 |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Apple is exiting the Wi-Fi router business
Apple's router products were last updated in 2013 with support for 802.11ac Wi-Fi. Since then, companies like Eero, Netgear, and Google have begun manufacturing router systems that use a mesh network approach for better whole-home coverage.
Apple introduced AirPort in 1999 when wireless technology was in its infancy. At the time, Apple felt it had to provide Wi-Fi support in Macs and routers to bring it to the mainstream. Over the years, as Wi-Fi standards progressed, Apple stayed in the market to help push those standards forward. For example, AirPort Express, introduced in 2004, included a built-in audio jack that could connect speakers and stream music wirelessly across a house or business.
Now, Apple sees the Wi-Fi router industry as thriving on its own, with multiple highly-motivated vendors that no longer need Apple to push technology and innovation. Apple is focusing on expanding its role as a connected devices company, with plans to develop a speaker with built-in Siri capabilities.
For existing Apple AirPort customers, the company will continue to sell AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, and AirPort Time Capsule while supplies last. Apple is also helping customers obtain service and parts for current-generation AirPort Base Stations for the next five years.
Heathrow: London's Largest Airport?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![[UL Listed] OMNIHIL White 5 Feet Long AC Power Cord Compatible with Apple Airport Express 2nd Generation A3192](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31HJpx4oaWL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
AirPlay music streaming alternatives
AirPlay is Apple's wireless streaming technology, which allows users to stream music, videos, and photos throughout their living premises. However, it is limited to Apple devices, and certain devices can only send or receive media.
Stream What You Hear (SWYH)
SWYH is an open-source and free application that allows users to stream music from their PC to any DLNA or UPnP device, such as TVs, amps, game consoles, and network receivers. It is a popular alternative to AirPlay and offers a simple, one-click setup.
SoundWire
SoundWire is a freemium application that enables audio mirroring. It allows users to stream music from any music player on their PC or laptop, such as Spotify, YouTube, or iTunes, to their Android devices over WiFi. SoundWire is the most popular Android and Linux alternative to AirPlay.
TuneBlade
TuneBlade is a commercial alternative to AirPlay that allows users to stream audio to AirPlay-compatible devices, including Airport Express, Apple TV, speakers, and HiFi receivers. It offers a simple setup and redirects audio between PCs.
Porthole
Porthole is a software that allows users to stream music from their Mac to multiple AirPlay devices and speakers simultaneously. It offers a straightforward and intuitive interface, with keyboard shortcuts for easy control.
Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi is a customizable solution that requires some technical know-how. It can be used for multi-room audio, integrated with smart home systems, or even create a hybrid device supporting multiple streaming protocols. It offers long-term value and versatility.
These alternatives to AirPlay provide similar functionality for music streaming and offer various features and compatibility options.
Haneda Airport: Which Prefecture Does it Belong To?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Extending Wi-Fi range
Apple has stopped manufacturing Airport Express, so it is not possible to buy a new one. However, you can still extend your Wi-Fi range using a wireless extender, which connects to your existing Wi-Fi network and rebroadcasts its own signals, improving the connection quality within its range.
When choosing a wireless extender, consider the following:
- Cost: Good mesh Wi-Fi networks can be expensive, starting at just above $120. A more affordable option is a range extender, which can improve your Wi-Fi connection without having to replace your whole network. Range extenders can be found for under $100.
- Performance: The extender should improve coverage and connectivity compared to using the router alone.
- Ethernet Ports: Ethernet ports allow for wired connections to devices such as game consoles and TVs.
- Mesh Compatibility: Mesh networking features can simplify setup and improve network stability. Some range extenders can even turn your router setup into a mesh system.
- Reviews: Check online reviews to see if the extender has had any recurring problems.
- TP-Link RE715X AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 Range Extender: This extender is easy to install, works with any Wi-Fi 6 router, and can be used to create a mesh network. It is available for $89.99.
- TP-Link RE500X AX1500 Wi-Fi 6 Extender: This extender is also easy to install and is compatible with Wi-Fi 6 routers. It is more affordable at $39.99.
- RE600X: This extender is a good choice if you have a TP-Link router, as it can be used to create a mesh network.
Newark Airport: Recent Developments and Happenings
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![EnGenius Wi-Fi 6 [EWS356-FIT] Dual Band AX3000 | Cloud & App & OnPrem Control Options | WPA3, MU-MIMO, Mesh & Seamless Roaming - Power Adapter not Included.](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31RyV36LAlL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Refurbished or used Airport Express
Apple has discontinued the production of Airport Express. However, you can still purchase refurbished or used Airport Express units from online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, and specialised Apple resellers like Mac of All Trades.
Refurbished Airport Express units sold on Amazon are inspected, tested, and refurbished to be fully functional according to Amazon Renewed standards. These products are backed by the Amazon Renewed Guarantee, which offers a replacement or refund if the customer is not satisfied.
On eBay, you can find plenty of A1264 and A1392 models available, some even advertised as "new". Prices can range from $50 to $60, and it is recommended to look for a seller's guarantee.
Mac of All Trades offers discounted and refurbished Apple Airport products with a 90-day hardware warranty and free ground shipping.
When purchasing a refurbished or used Airport Express, it is important to note that this technology is older and may not perform as well as newer alternatives. However, for those with existing Airport Express networks, adding a used or refurbished unit can be a seamless and cost-effective way to extend their current setup.
While Apple does not offer a direct replacement for the Airport Express, there are alternative options available, such as a HomePod, wireless extender, mesh system, Bluetooth adapter, or Chromecast Audio, each with its own advantages and disadvantages depending on your specific needs.
Canceling Bounce Airport Rides: A Quick Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Alternatives to Airport Express
Apple discontinued the AirPort Express in 2018, and the last significant upgrade to it was in 2012. The AirPort Express was a unique product as it included an audio jack, which allowed users to send audio to speakers in their home. Since there is no direct replacement for the AirPort Express, you will need to set up new equipment that gives you similar capabilities.
Eero Home Wi-Fi System
The Eero Home Wi-Fi System is very similar to the Apple AirPort Express and is available in individual units at $199, a 2-unit pack at $349, and a 3-unit pack at $499. Eero Plus is an additional optional subscription that unlocks several features, including a VPN app, ad blocking across an entire network, additional parental controls, and access to the popular password manager 1Password.
AmpliFi HD (High-Density) Home Wi-Fi System
AmpliFi HD is a mesh network system that helps bring a strong and consistent connection to different locations in the home. It has been praised for its design, ease of setup and use, and its different features. You can purchase additional mesh points for bigger homes. AmpliFi also has an additional device that can create a plug-and-play VPN to improve online security.
Synology RT2600AC
The Synology RT2600AC is an excellent choice if you are looking for just a Wi-Fi router. The 802.11ac dual-band router can handle a Time Machine backup from a Mac and even allow anyone to share a printer or hard drive across a network. Thanks to two USB ports and an SD card reader, the router can easily become a multimedia hub. It also receives regular security updates and offers features like intrusion protection, denial-of-service protection, and firewall management.
Linksys Dual-Band Velop
The Linksys Dual-Band Velop uses intelligent mesh technology to provide better speed and improve handling between different nodes. The Velop app will recommend the best placement for each node to help reduce latency, maximize throughput, improve range, and offer better signal strength. Buyers can select from a starter pack with one, two, or three nodes, and additional nodes can be purchased later to expand the system.
OnHub
The OnHub router has a simple setup process and a range of up to 2,500 square feet, making it suitable for modest-sized or larger homes. It has a maximum theoretical throughput of up to 1.9Gbps across both bands and can register a throughput of 308Mbps at a close range of 15 feet. However, it lacks customization features for advanced users and standard router-management features such as parental controls and support for VPN services.
Asus RT-AC5300
The Asus RT-AC5300 offers theoretical throughput speeds of up to 3.1 Gbps across both bands and is capable of moving up to 1 Gbps in the 2.4 GHz band and 2.1 Gbps on 5 GHz bands. It offers game-enhancement options such as Multi-User Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MU-MIMO), 4X4 data transmissions, and a wealth of management settings. However, it is a large router with bulky antennas, and unless you have a large house or an office with plenty of Wi-Fi devices, it may be more than you need.
Airport Dispatching: A Guide to Becoming a Pro
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
No, Apple has discontinued its AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, and AirPort Time Capsule Wi-Fi routers and exited the Wi-Fi router business.
Apple felt it had to stay in the market and help push forward Wi-Fi standards like 802.11n and 802.11ac. Over time, this slowed and then stopped, with the AirPort Base Station line last updated in 2013.
Alternatives to the AirPort Express include the Ubiquiti devices, HomePod, wireless extender, mesh system, Bluetooth adapter, or Chromecast Audio.
Alternatives to the AirPort Extreme include the Eero Pro, Nest Wifi, and Unifi by Ubiquiti.
Yes, refurbished or used AirPort Express units are available on eBay and Amazon.
