When Wi-Fi Wi-Fi launched in 2017, it quickly became our mesh router of choice, thanks to its small size, easy-to-use setup, and value for money compared to the rest of the competition.
And now, it looks like we're getting closer to launching a follow-up, with new Chrome Unboxed revelations stating that a Google Wifi 2 is already in production and that it should launch later this year.
Codenamed Mistral (Wind Direction), the next generation of Google Wifi will use Qualcomm's new QCS400 SoCs (SoCs on Chips) as the main processor. This is an unusual option for a router because the QCS400s are primarily designed for use in smart speakers. The new Qualcomm SoC also supports Wi-Fi 6, the next-generation wireless technology formerly known as 802.11ax.
This means that Google Wifi 2 will be able to achieve a higher maximum bandwidth with better distribution across multiple devices, while offering the possibility of voice input and audio playback. .
It's all in the name
Although the arrival of Google Wifi 2 remains speculative, it is also possible that we will find these same features in a Google Home 2 smart speaker that also doubles as a mesh router - the codename Mistral was discovered in April 2019 by Kevin Tofel. who, at the time, assumed the device was a new smart speaker or display.
However, Google traditionally names its Wi-Fi products based on wind types, for example "Storm" for OnHub routers produced in association with Asus and TP-Link, and "Gale" for the first generation Google Wifi. - The first mesh system in the "Made by Google" hardware range.
Boxed Chrome eagle-eyed folks have also found a pretty compelling clue in a code-change update for Mistral, confirming that it's actually a reality. a mesh router and not a smart speaker. 9to5Google also revealed some conversations between Google developers, referring to both Gale and Mistral.
Anyway, Chrome Unboxed noted that Mistral was already in production validation testing (PVT), which means we probably won't have to wait until we get a better overview of this faster and potentially smarter Google Wifi network system. . .