Should You Upgrade to Wi-Fi 7? My Buying Advice After Testing a Next-Gen Router at Home
The Asus RT-BE86U packs a robust suite of security features, ensuring you can confidently embrace next-gen high-speed internet. But is it worth the upgrade? The router delivers fast, wireless connections protected by multiple security features, but getting the most out of the device requires Wi-Fi extenders which can be an expensive endeavor. However, with widespread adoption of Wi-Fi 7 becoming more prevalent, the technology is now more accessible to consumers.
This mid-range Wi-Fi 7 router offers top-notch performance without breaking the bank, making it a great option for those looking to upgrade their home internet without overspending.
As Wi-Fi 7 becomes increasingly ubiquitous, it's essential to consider how this technology will evolve and impact the way we manage our home networks in the future.
Amazon has introduced the Eero 7, an entry-level dual-band Wi-Fi 7 mesh router priced at $169, offering a budget-friendly option for users looking to explore the latest wireless technology. Despite its attractive price and user-friendly app for setup, the Eero 7 lacks key features such as a high-performance 6 GHz band and has limited port availability, which may hinder its appeal for more demanding users. As the router competes against similarly priced models, it raises questions about the trade-offs consumers face when opting for lower-cost technology solutions.
The Eero 7's launch reflects a growing trend of budget-friendly tech options that prioritize accessibility over high-end performance, challenging consumers to weigh cost against capability.
Will the limitations of budget routers like the Eero 7 push consumers toward more expensive models, or will they find satisfactory performance within these constraints?
The D-Link Eagle Pro AI R32 is a budget-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router that delivers excellent performance over short distances and at a fraction of the cost of similar routers. With speeds of up to 800Mbits/sec on the 2.4GHz band and a maximum speed of 2.4Gbits/sec on the 5GHz radio, this router is perfect for basic connectivity across a few rooms. Its simple setup process and range of features make it an attractive option for those who don't need advanced settings.
The Eagle Pro AI R32's performance highlights the limitations of wireless networking technology, where a single weak antenna can significantly impact signal strength and speed.
Will this router's affordable price point be enough to justify its shortcomings in terms of long-range coverage and feature set compared to more expensive alternatives?
The ASRock B860I Lightning Wifi is an attractive option in the budget Mini-ITX space, offering robust power delivery with active cooling, a Thunderbolt 4 Type-C port, ample storage options, and fast memory support. Although it lacks Wi-Fi 7, its competitors' offerings may not provide better performance. The board's design features a striking aesthetic with an attractive purple-to-blue color scheme, making it stand out in the market.
The B860I Lightning Wifi's limitations highlight the trade-offs between form factor and feature set in compact motherboards.
How will the inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 on future Mini-ITX motherboards impact consumer expectations for performance and value in these small form factors?
Devolo has launched a new portable router that comes with 5G support and can provide internet access to multiple mobile devices via a cellular network when no regular home internet connection is available. The WiFi router might be useful in various scenarios, such as traveling or working remotely where a stable connection is essential. By leveraging the power of 5G connectivity, Devolo's new router offers a convenient solution for those who need fast and reliable internet on-the-go.
This innovative device has the potential to transform the way we access the internet while traveling or working remotely, offering a flexible and reliable solution that can bridge the gap between cellular networks and traditional home internet connections.
As the demand for mobile internet continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how Devolo's WiFi 6 Router with 5G support evolves in terms of speed, range, and compatibility with different devices and networks.
The Netgear Orbi 870 is a capable mesh router that delivers class-competitive performance across its 6 GHz and 5 GHz bands. However, its $1,299 price tag comes with significant compromises, particularly in the form of missing 5 Gbps or 10 Gbps LAN ports and the absence of USB ports on both the router and satellites. These downgrades are particularly disappointing given the Orbi 870's position as a Wi-Fi 7 mesh router.
The situation underscores the trade-offs that consumers must make when investing in high-end, cutting-edge technology: do they prioritize performance and features over price?
How will Netgear address these hardware limitations in future updates or revisions to the Orbi 870, potentially at a lower price point?
The Spitz Plus GL-X2000, a portable Wi-Fi 6 cellular router, offers a unique combination of advanced features that set it apart from other routers in its class. The device boasts dual-SIM connectivity, built-in VPN support for over 30 providers, and high-speed Ethernet connectivity, making it an attractive option for those seeking reliable and secure internet access on the go. Additionally, its compact design and low power consumption make it suitable for use in a variety of settings.
This router's emphasis on security features, such as preinstalled VPN support and encrypted DNS, underscores the growing importance of online safety in today's digital landscape.
How will the widespread adoption of portable routers like the Spitz Plus GL-X2000 impact traditional internet service provider (ISP) business models and their ability to compete in the market?
A handful of top VPN providers have teamed up with router manufacturers to provide users with hardware that has their VPN already installed. This setup streamlines the process of setting up a VPN environment via the router, which covers devices connected to it without needing individual software installation. By choosing a VPN-ready router, home security and privacy are significantly enhanced online.
The integration of a built-in VPN in a router enables seamless protection for all devices in a household, creating a single, unified layer of security against external threats.
Will the increased adoption of VPN routers lead to significant changes in how internet service providers (ISPs) approach data tracking and sharing with governments and other entities?
The Lenovo ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 laptop features Intel Core Ultra HX processors and Nvidia RTX-series GPUs, making it ideal for professionals who require high-performance computing. The new model boasts a 16-inch 3.2K display, Wi-Fi 7, and enhanced cooling capabilities, providing an optimal user experience for demanding workloads like 3D rendering, video editing, and AI-assisted tasks. Lenovo's latest offering also includes a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for AI-based automation and workflow optimization.
This latest ThinkBook model signals a significant upgrade in Lenovo's laptop offerings, positioning it as a viable alternative to high-end gaming PCs and professional workstations.
How will the adoption of Wi-Fi 7 technology impact the future of wireless connectivity in laptops, particularly in terms of data transfer speeds and range?
United Airlines has successfully installed its first Starlink-equipped plane, marking a significant upgrade to in-flight internet speeds. The airline aims to equip 40 planes a month with the new technology and finish its entire regional jet fleet within the year. With speeds of up to 250 megabits per second (Mbps), Starlink is expected to provide users with a "living room in the sky experience."
As United Airlines increasingly offers fast and reliable internet on its flights, it's worth considering how this might redefine our expectations for air travel, pushing the boundaries between leisure and work.
Will other airlines follow suit, and if so, what impact will this have on the overall passenger experience, with potential implications for airline business models?
A U.S. congressional committee has urged Americans to remove Chinese-made wireless routers from their homes, citing a security threat that could allow China to hack into critical infrastructure. The House of Representatives Select Committee on China is investigating China's TP-Link Technology Co, which is the top seller of WiFi routers internationally by unit volume. The Commerce Department is considering a ban on the sale of the company's routers.
The use of Chinese-made routers in U.S. homes serves as a microcosm for a larger global trend: the commodification of security threats through state-sponsorship.
What implications would a nationwide ban on Chinese-made router sales have on the broader tech industry, and how would it affect global supply chains?
Apple is expected to launch upgraded versions of the iPad Air and the 10.9-inch iPad shortly after the release of the M4 MacBook Air, although the new tablets may not arrive within days. Reports suggest that stock levels for the current models are low, indicating an impending refresh, likely featuring enhanced chips such as the M3 or M4. While anticipated upgrades are minor and focused mainly on internal components, the introduction of new features like Wi-Fi 7 could also be on the horizon.
This development reflects Apple's strategy of maintaining a steady cadence of product updates, allowing consumers to anticipate enhancements without drastic design changes.
How will the expected upgrades to the iPads influence consumer purchasing decisions in a market increasingly dominated by multifunctional devices?
The rise of new gadgets from Apple is a welcome change for those looking to upgrade their devices without breaking the bank. The new MacBook Air and iPad Air are notable upgrades that offer faster performance, better webcams, and more affordable prices. Meanwhile, apps like Palworld and Deli Boys are offering fresh takes on gaming and community-building experiences.
As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, it's becoming increasingly important for developers to prioritize accessibility and user experience in their products, lest they become relics of the past.
How will the ever-changing landscape of consumer tech influence the way we approach product design and development in the next decade?
Apple's latest entry-level iPad (A16) showcases a performance boost with its new A16 chip and increased storage, despite not supporting Apple Intelligence features. The device maintains an appealing design and functionality, making it suitable for everyday tasks like browsing, gaming, and streaming. While it lacks some advanced capabilities, it remains a compelling option for users seeking a reliable tablet experience at an accessible price point.
This release reinforces Apple's strategy of offering a diverse range of iPads that cater to various user needs, emphasizing value without compromising core performance.
How might the absence of Apple Intelligence affect user adoption and the overall perception of the entry-level iPad among tech enthusiasts?
The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G, along with its A26 and A56 counterparts, features AI enhancements and improvements to the camera, audio, display, and battery. The new model boasts a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1200 nits, ideal even under direct sunlight. With its 45W wired charging and larger cooling system, this phone offers improved performance and longevity.
This upgrade highlights the increasing importance of mid-range phones in providing consumers with a balance between affordability and feature-rich experiences, blurring the lines between budget and flagship devices.
How will Samsung's focus on AI enhancements in its mid-range offerings impact the overall industry landscape and influence future innovations in smartphone technology?
Qualcomm's latest innovation, the X85 modem-RF platform, promises to drive unprecedented 5G speeds and intelligence, setting a new standard for connected devices. The AI-powered system integrates a cutting-edge processor to boost signal strength and enable faster data transfer rates. As the industry shifts towards more intelligent applications, Qualcomm's X85 is poised to deliver seamless streaming, downloads, and uploads.
The introduction of the X85 modem-RF platform underscores the importance of 5G technology in enabling widespread adoption of connected devices, particularly in industries such as automotive, XR, and IoT.
As 5G networks become increasingly ubiquitous, will device manufacturers prioritize seamless integration with these networks over other features to maintain competitive edge?
The US Federal Communications Commission has approved higher power levels for Elon Musk's SpaceX Starlink service, despite objections from rival companies AT&T and Verizon. The decision allows Starlink to operate a direct-to-cell service with T-Mobile at higher power levels, which could result in harmful interference and impact their service in some areas. The FCC has set conditions to protect terrestrial wireless carrier operations.
The approval of higher power levels for Starlink could be seen as a significant shift in the regulatory environment, enabling more efficient use of spectrum resources while also potentially increasing competition among wireless carriers.
How will the increased power levels affect the overall digital divide in rural areas, where remote locations are often without access to reliable internet connectivity?
Consumers seeking a new smartphone can find a variety of reliable options that prioritize usability over groundbreaking innovation. Current offerings include solid choices across different price ranges, with features that cater to everyday needs while ensuring longevity in software updates and performance. The market reflects a shift towards iterative improvements rather than dramatic changes, allowing users to find devices that seamlessly integrate into their daily lives.
This trend highlights a growing consumer preference for devices that prioritize stability and functionality, suggesting that companies may need to adapt their strategies to meet these expectations.
As smartphone technology becomes more standardized, what unique attributes will brands need to emphasize to differentiate themselves in a saturated market?
The RTX 5070's early availability is a sign of relief for budget builders waiting for the latest GPU, offering them a chance to upgrade without breaking the bank. However, history suggests that these prices are unlikely to last long as supply and demand dynamics take hold. The launch of AMD's RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT GPUs has also created a competitive landscape that could drive mainstream gamers towards Team Red.
The concurrent availability of multiple high-end GPUs on the same day may lead to a surge in sales, potentially resulting in shortages for both Nvidia and AMD models.
Will the widespread adoption of these new GPUs lead to significant improvements in gaming performance, or will the increased competition result in stagnant frame rates?
The new HP Series 7 Pro 734pm's impressive array of connectivity features, including Thunderbolt 4 in and out, a multi-port USB hub, ethernet, and a high-quality webcam, make it an exceptional choice for business users who require seamless productivity and collaboration. The monitor's 34-inch widescreen form factor and IPS Black panel technology also contribute to its outstanding performance and colour accuracy. However, the relatively low pixel density and limited HDR support at this price point are notable drawbacks.
The emphasis on connectivity in a modern workspace is so great that it's often hard for monitors to stand out by that metric alone; yet, HP's latest ultrawide productivity monitor has done just that with one of the most comprehensive feature sets around.
How will the proliferation of high-connectivity displays like this one impact the future of office spaces and the ways in which people collaborate and work remotely?
AMD's upcoming RX 9070 series GPUs will exclusively require UEFI firmware for optimal compatibility, marking a shift away from the older BIOS and CSM standards. While these new GPUs can still function on legacy systems, AMD does not guarantee an optimal experience, potentially leading to reduced performance and unexplained issues. This transition emphasizes the growing importance of modern firmware to fully exploit the advanced features of high-performance graphics cards.
This decision reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where manufacturers are increasingly prioritizing modern standards to enhance user experience and system performance.
How might the requirement for UEFI influence consumer behavior and the longevity of older hardware in the gaming community?
The new iPad (A16) boasts up to 50% faster performance compared to its predecessor, thanks to the A16 chip, which features a 5-core CPU, a 4-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine. The device now starts at $349 with 128GB of internal storage, offering more space for apps, photos, and files. Despite this upgrade, the iPad (A16) does not support Apple Intelligence.
The lack of Apple Intelligence might be seen as a strategic decision by Apple to maintain control over its AI-powered features, potentially allowing it to fine-tune these capabilities in-house without outside interference.
How will the absence of Apple Intelligence affect the overall user experience and potential security implications for this entry-level iPad compared to its more advanced counterparts?
The Google Pixel 9a has appeared in the FCC database, revealing significant hardware features such as NFC, wireless charging, and satellite connectivity. This mid-range smartphone is poised to be the first in its category to support satellite calls, following in the footsteps of more premium models like the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. As anticipation builds for its official launch, the Pixel 9a's specifications indicate a strong competitive edge in the mid-range market.
The introduction of satellite connectivity in a mid-range device could redefine industry standards, potentially influencing other manufacturers to enhance their offerings in this segment.
What implications will the Pixel 9a's features have on consumer expectations for mid-range smartphones in the future?
The new Compute Module 4 variants from Raspberry Pi have expanded its capabilities to tackle extreme environments. The latest updates are designed to meet the growing demand for industrial applications, where devices must operate in harsh conditions. With a wider temperature range, these modules will find their way into unique and interesting projects.
This upgrade highlights the importance of addressing the needs of industrial applications, which often require devices to withstand extreme temperatures and environments.
What role will the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 play in the development of autonomous vehicles, where reliability and durability are crucial components?
When purchasing a 4K TV, buyers should prioritize the quality of upscaling technology, especially since most streaming content is not available in 4K. A good image processor can significantly enhance lower-resolution content, making it visually acceptable even on larger screens. As the streaming landscape evolves, the ability of a TV to effectively upscale content becomes increasingly crucial for an optimal viewing experience.
This consideration reflects a shift in consumer priorities, where the focus is not solely on resolution but also on the technological prowess of the device to deliver a better picture across various content types.
In a world where streaming services are constantly evolving, how will consumers adapt their purchasing decisions based on the changing availability of high-resolution content?
Bluetooth 6.0 is the latest update to the wireless technology, bringing exciting new features that enhance user experience and performance. The new standard introduces Channel Sounding, which enables precise location of Bluetooth devices, and Isochronous Adaptation Layer (ISOAL), which optimizes data packet transmission for reduced latency. Additionally, Bluetooth Extended Advertising improves scanning efficiency and security.
The integration of advanced technologies like Channel Sounding in consumer electronics could revolutionize the way we interact with our devices, enabling new use cases such as precise device tracking and secure data exchange.
Will the increased focus on user experience and usability translate to improved overall performance and battery life for Bluetooth-enabled devices, or will there be trade-offs in terms of functionality?