Apple rumored to stop producing wireless routers

First monitors, now routers. Citing unnamed sources, Bloomberg reported today that Apple has disbanded their wireless router development team. This move will effectively kill the Cupertino giant’s AirPort line of WiFi routers.

Apple’s AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, and AirPort Time Capsule routers were once fairly popular among consumers, marketed as devices that would act as a useful component in the Apple ecosystem. The line of routers hasn’t been updated since 2013, however, and the lack of a refresh has resulted in stagnant sales. Lumped under the “Other Products” category for revenue reporting, the routers counted for less than 5% of Apple’s sales in 2016.

The AirPort routers are made to seamlessly integrate with other Apple products, allowing features like automatic storage backup over a wireless network or music streaming from an iPhone or iPod to speakers connected to a router. Though AirPort routers are not known for pushing WiFi technology and wireless standards, they are nonetheless well regarded for their simple setup and ease of use.

It’s unknown if Apple will stop making AirPort routers at this point. This move, should it be true, would follow Apple’s exit from external monitors announced in October this year. Instead of manufacturing and selling their own monitors, Apple has opted instead to work with third parties like LG.

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