Apple is reportedly not reviving its AirPort wireless router lineup, but there may still be hope for fans of Apple-designed network solutions. According to Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter, the company is exploring new ways to integrate wireless access point capabilities into its home devices, powered by its in-house Proxima chip.
While the AirPort was discontinued in 2013, the Proxima chip’s advanced design could potentially turn products like the Apple TV or HomePod into hybrid devices that serve as wireless access points, similar to offerings from Google. Though Apple hasn’t confirmed plans to activate such functionality, the Proxima chip is expected to feature in a range of devices, including future iterations of the iPhone, Mac, Apple TV, and HomePod.
This development keeps alive the possibility of Apple reentering the networking space indirectly, offering users a seamless, integrated experience for their smart homes.
