Google OnHub
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Google OnHub was a line of WiFi-enabled internet routers sold by Google from 2016-2022. They were intended to provide high signal strength in a better looking package than typical routers, to encourage users to place them in open areas. They were produced by 3rd party manufacturers, but relied on Google for software support and used a Google cloud interface for all settings and administration.
Consumer impact summary
Freedom
The ability to administer OnHub routers via Google’s cloud servicewas completely disabled in 2023. Since no local interface for doing so existed previously, and Google didn’t include an update to add one, this removed any ability to change any settings on the routers.
Privacy
Market control
Business model
Incidents
Google Removes Ability to Change Any Settings (01-11-2023)
- Main article: link to the main article
On 1/11/2023, Google removed the ability to access or change any settings on OnHub routers via the Google Home application. Because this was the only method available to change settings or otherwise administer these routers, no settings changes could be made to them from that point, onwards. Google’s only suggested fixes for this were an article on how to recycle the router and a discount code for their newer Mesh WiFi devices.
Products
See also