Apple adds simultaneous multi-band Wi-Fi to routers

Apple didn't just tweak its desktop Mac line-up today - it also tinkered with its wireless router range.

The Time Capsule and AirPort Extreme both gain the ability to host connections over both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands simultaneously.

Both already had the ability to use these two bands - 2.4GHz for 802.11b, g and n - and 5GHz for 802.11a and n - but owners had to select which to use: 5GHz for less crowded airwaves, or 2.4GHz for backward compatibility.

Apple also added the ability to host two wireless networks: one for you, one for guests. The latter can be limited to internet access, with the main WLAN only providing access to the shared network resources the two boxes provide, such as printers, external storage or, in the case of the Time Capsule, the on-board 500GB or 1TB hard drive.

Available immediately, the Airport Extreme router costs $179/£139. The 1TB Time Capsule costs $499/£379. The 500GB model costs $299/£229. ®