Linksys has hit the market with a new router that incorporates the latest Wi-Fi flavor, 802.11ac, which can reach gigabit data transfer rates.
Cisco said the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Router AC 1750 HD Video Pro, announced earlier this year, was now available through retail and online stores in the U.S. The new router complements the company’s previously announced Universal Media Connector, which was designed specifically to connect to Smart TVs, Blu-ray players and game consoles at gigabit speeds.
IEEE 802.11ac is not only faster than current 802.11n products, but also offers improved reliability and better range, based on beamforming capabilities.
Linksys also provides a set of tools and apps that allow consumers to control their home network and devices through. With these apps, customers can apply for a Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Account during product set-up. After creation, the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Account can be accessed securely from any web browser or through the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi App on a smartphone or tablet, the company said.
Linksys has also introduced a means of connecting devices to the router that aims to make the process of connecting devices easier. Called SimpleTap, devices can connect to the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Router with as little as one tap of a button or with a quick swipe or scan of a device or tag, the company said.
At the same time, Linksys announced a partnership with another consumer electronics manufacturer, LG Electronics. The two plan to collaborate on a variety of broadband services, though Linksys offered only vague details on what that might entail beyond making sure Linksys’ new router and LG’s Smart TVs work well together.
“As part of LG’s smart device innovation leadership strategy, we’re pleased to collaborate with Linksys to offer consumers the best experience in streaming entertainment at home. While delivering an unparalleled Smart TV experience with our slim-profile Cinema 3D Smart TVs and the unique LG Magic Remote, we’re also focusing our efforts on simplifying home network connectivity. Using Linksys Smart Wi-Fi routers that also enable superior streaming experiences represents an important first step in a broader relationship between LG and Cisco intended to enhance and simplify end-user enjoyment of a variety of broadband services,” said Samuel Chang, general manager of Innovation Development, LG Electronics USA.
The Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Router AC 1750 HD Video Pro (model EA6500), is available for $219.99 (MSRP) at Best Buy, Wal-Mart, Amazon, Staples, RadioShack, and the Cisco Home Networking Store.
