Google announces second OnHub router from Asus

Google has announced a second OnHub router, but this time it’s being made by Asus.
The internet giant announced the first OnHub Wi-Fi router in mid-August. This $199 North America-only “new way to Wi-Fi” was made by China’s TP-LINK.
Now Google has announced a second OnHub unit, which is being made by Taiwanese manufacturer Asus. It features similar functionality and a similar cylindrical design – though this time it’s slightly bottom-heavy rather than top-heavy.
It’s still designed to be placed centrally in the home, with stronger-than-normal Wi-Fi connectivity thanks to the presence of multiple antennas, and the ability to search out the strongest connection.
The second OnHub also shares the first OnHub’s intuitive nature and easy set-up. Everything is controlled through a dedicated Google On app.
So what’s new? The Asus-made OnHub comes with a feature called Wave Control, which lets you boost the Wi-Fi speed for a particular device simply by waving your hand over the OnHub.
Related: Google OnHub: Why Google’s first router is the key to smart home 2.0
You’ll have to pay a little extra for this wavey feature – the Asus OnHub will set you back $219.99 when it arrives for pre-order this week. Or rather, it will set US customers back that amount. It’s not available in any other markets at present.
In addition to a second OnHub model, Google has announced its first major software update for the OnHub family. Besides general performance improvements, it includes a new smart antenna algorithm for figuring out the best antenna combination for each device, wherever it is in the home.
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