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AirPort Express
AirPort Express
AirPort Express
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The redesigned AirPort Express released in 2012
1st Generation AirPort Express
Historical development of some wireless router chipset variants

AirPort Express is a discontinued line of Wi-Fi base stations made by Apple Inc. from 2004 to 2018. It was positioned as the entry-level router in the AirPort product line, below the AirPort Extreme and AirPort Time Capsule. While more compact and in some ways simpler than the AirPort Extreme, the Express offered audio output capability the Extreme lacked. The AirPort Express was the first AirPlay device that could receive audio streamed from a computer running iTunes on the local network. In Japan, the AirPort Express was sold as the AirMac Express.[1]

Description

[edit]

When connected to an Ethernet network, the Express can function as a wireless access point. The latest model allows up to 50 networked users. It can be used as an Ethernet-to-wireless bridge under certain wireless configurations. It can be used to extend the range of a network, including functioning as a printer and audio server. The model introduced in June 2012 includes two Ethernet ports: one WAN and one LAN.[2]

The AirPort Express uses an audio connector that combines a 3.5 mm minijack socket and a mini-TOSLINK optical digital transmitter, allowing connection to an external digital-to-analog converter (DAC) or amplifier with internal DAC. Standard audio CDs ripped in iTunes into Apple Lossless format streamed to the AirPort Express will output a bit-for-bit identical bitstream when compared to the original CD (provided any sound enhancement settings in iTunes are disabled). DTS-encoded CDs ripped to Apple Lossless audio files - which decode as digital white noise in iTunes - will play back correctly when the AirPort Express is connected via TOSLINK to a DTS-compatible amplifier–decoder.[3] This is limited to 16-bit and 44.1 kHz when streaming from iTunes; any higher quality content, such as high fidelity audio that uses up to 24-bit and/or 192 kHz will be truncated down to 16-bit and 44.1 kHz.[4][full citation needed]

The audio output feature of the AirPort Express on a system running OS X Lion or earlier can only be used to wirelessly stream audio files from within iTunes to an attached stereo system. It cannot be used to output the soundtrack of iTunes video content to an attached stereo.[5] OS X Mountain Lion introduced AirPlay support, a feature to output Mac system-wide audio directly to AirPort Express.[6] This allows output of the audio of protected video content within iTunes, and also correctly maintains the audio sync with the image displayed on-screen. Video is synced with output audio when playing the video through an AirPort Express if the video is in a format supported by QuickTime Player (such as HTML 5 video in Safari etc.).

For Windows and Mac operating systems (before OS X Mountain Lion) there are a few software options available for streaming system-wide audio to the AirPort Express, such as Airfoil and TuneBlade. For the Logitech Media Server (Squeezeserver), the AirPlay bridge plugin allows it to behave as a seamless SqueezePlayer client. [1]

History

[edit]

2004 model

[edit]

The first version (M9470LL/A, model A1084) was introduced by Apple on July 7, 2004;[7][8][9] it included an analog–optical audio mini-jack output, a USB port for remote printing, and one Ethernet port. The USB port could also be used to charge the first generation iPod Shuffle, although this was not supported by Apple.[10] The main processor of the 802.11g AirPort Express was a Broadcom BCM4712KFB wireless networking chipset, which incorporated a 200 MHz MIPS processor. The audio was handled by a Texas Instruments Burr-Brown PCM2705 16-bit digital-to-analog converter.

2008 model

[edit]

An updated version (MB321LL/A, model A1264) supporting the faster 802.11 Draft-N draft specification and operation in either of the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, with almost all other features identical, was introduced by Apple in March 2008.[11] The revised unit includes an 802.11a/n (5 GHz) mode, which allows adding Draft-N to an existing 802.11b/g network without disrupting existing connections, while preserving the increased throughput that Draft-N can provide.[12] Up to 10 wireless units can connect to this AirPort Express.

2012 model

[edit]

In 2012 Apple introduced a completely redesigned model with a new square form factor and two ethernet ports.

On August 28, 2018 Apple added AirPlay 2 support to the 2012 AirPort Express, providing the ability to be added to the Apple Home app as an audio destination.[13]

Discontinuation and support

[edit]

On November 21, 2016, Bloomberg reported that Apple had disbanded its wireless router division.[14] In an April 2018 statement to 9to5Mac,[15] Apple announced the discontinuation of the AirPort line and exit from the consumer router market. Apple continued supporting the AirPort Express, although an older version of its "AirPort Utility" is required to support the earliest version of the device.[16][17]

Models

[edit]
AirPort Express Base Station models
U.S. model number Product family number Date Wi-Fi standard Features Consumer Nickname AirPort Utility Versions
M9470LL/A A1084 / A1088 July 2004 - March 2008[2][18] 802.11b/g
  • 10/100 Ethernet WAN or LAN port
  • Analog/digital audio output jack
  • USB Printer Port
 AirPort Express 802.11g (1st Generation) Mac: 5.x
iOS: none
Windows 5.5.3, 5.6.1
MB321LL/A A1264 March 2008 – June 2012[11][19] 802.11a/b/g/Draft N
  • Wireless-to-Ethernet bridge
  • 10/100 Base-T Ethernet WAN or LAN port
  • Analog/digital audio output jack (AirTunes, AirPlay v1, v2 since 7.8[20])
  • USB Printer Port
 AirPort Express 802.11n (1st Generation) Mac: 5.x (OS X 10.5.9+) - 6.x
iOS: 1.0 - 1.3
Windows 5.6.1
MC414LL/A A1392 June 2012 – April 2018[21] 802.11a/b/g/n simultaneous dual-band
  • Wireless-to-Ethernet bridge
  • 2 10/100 Ethernet ports: WAN or LAN, LAN only
  • Analog/digital audio output jack
  • USB Printer Port
  • AirPlay 2
 AirPort Express 802.11n (2nd Generation) Mac: 5.6 - 6.x
iOS: 1.0 - 1.3
Windows 5.6.1

See also

[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to AirPort Express.

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

AirPort Express

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The AirPort Express is a compact base station developed by Apple Inc., first introduced on June 7, 2004, as an ultra-portable router supporting 802.11g standards, with built-in AirTunes (later ) for streaming music to connected audio systems and a USB port for print sharing. It weighs just 6.7 ounces in a single-piece design, priced at $129 upon launch, and was compatible with both Mac and Windows PCs for easy setup via AirPort Utility software. Over its lifespan, the AirPort Express evolved through several models, including the 2008 second-generation version that added 802.11n with dual-band support (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, selectable) for improved speed and range, and a 2012 third-generation model with a redesigned square form factor, simultaneous dual-band , and separate WAN and LAN Ethernet ports. Key technical specs for the final 802.11n model include IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n compatibility, a maximum radio output power of 20.5 dBm, support for channels 1-11 and 36-116 (varies by country), one 10/100BASE-T Ethernet WAN port, one 10/100BASE-T Ethernet LAN port, one USB 2.0 port, and a 3.5 mm analog/optical audio output, all housed in a 3.85 by 3.85 by 0.9-inch white plastic enclosure. It functioned not only as a primary router but also as a extender to boost existing networks and a versatile receiver, enabling or later playback to any stereo or without cables. Apple discontinued the entire AirPort product line, including the Express, in April 2018 after nearly 14 years of production, citing a shift in focus away from amid a competitive market dominated by third-party systems. Despite its discontinuation, the device remains notable for pioneering consumer-friendly wireless audio streaming and simple , influencing modern smart home ecosystems; a January 2018 update added 2 support to 802.11n models, though the last update was released in June 2019.

Introduction

Product Overview

The AirPort Express is a compact, discontinued Wi-Fi base station produced by Apple Inc. from 2004 to 2018. It served as a versatile networking device, functioning primarily as a wireless access point to create or join Wi-Fi networks, an Ethernet-to-wireless bridge to connect wired devices to a wireless network, a range extender to boost coverage in existing setups, a print server via its USB port for sharing printers across the network, and an audio streaming device for wireless music playback. A key unique selling point of the AirPort Express was its seamless integration with Apple's technology, allowing users to stream audio from or compatible devices to connected speakers or stereos without cables. Later models supported up to 50 simultaneous wireless users, making it suitable for small home or office environments. Positioned as Apple's entry-level router, it offered simpler features and a lower compared to the more advanced and models. Historically, the AirPort Express marked a milestone as the first device to enable audio streaming over , revolutionizing wireless music playback when introduced in 2004. In , due to issues, it was marketed under the name AirMac Express. Apple discontinued the entire AirPort lineup in 2018, citing a focus on other priorities while supplies lasted.

Market Positioning

The AirPort Express was primarily targeted at home users and consumers seeking straightforward network setup, wireless audio streaming capabilities, and a portable device for secondary or travel-based networking, rather than enterprise environments requiring advanced management tools. This positioning emphasized its role as an accessible entry point into connectivity for individuals within the , such as those using for music playback, without the complexity of professional-grade routers. Launched in at $129 USD, the AirPort Express saw its price reduced to $99 USD with the 2008 revision, a level it maintained through subsequent updates to remain competitively affordable against consumer-grade routers from manufacturers like and . This pricing strategy positioned it as a premium yet approachable option in the sub-$150 segment, appealing to budget-conscious households prioritizing integration over raw hardware expansion. The device differentiated itself through seamless integration with Apple's software ecosystem, including exclusive support for (originally AirTunes) for wireless music streaming from , which was unavailable on competing products from or at the time. Its compact, wall-pluggable design further set it apart, enabling easy deployment for portable use or extending networks in smaller spaces, unlike the bulkier, feature-heavy alternatives from third-party vendors. Market reception highlighted the AirPort Express's strengths in user-friendly setup and operation, earning praise for its intuitive configuration process that required minimal technical knowledge, often completed via Apple's AirPort Utility software. However, early models faced criticism for lacking advanced features such as dedicated guest networks, which limited its appeal for households needing isolated visitor access without compromising main . Apple discontinued the AirPort Express line in 2018.

Design and Features

Physical Design

The AirPort Express features a compact, plastic designed for discreet integration into home environments, with a fanless construction ensuring completely silent operation during use. Early models from and 2008 adopt a rectangular form factor measuring approximately 3.7 by 2.9 by 1.1 inches and weighing 6.7 ounces, emphasizing portability through a built-in, fold-out AC plug that allows direct connection to a outlet without an external . The consists of a durable polycarbonate shell with rounded edges and an internal antenna, complemented by a front-facing LED status indicator for visual feedback on power and network status. Subsequent revisions refined the and while maintaining the overall lightweight profile under 0.5 pounds. The 2008 model retains the identical dimensions, weight, shape, and rounded design of its predecessor, prioritizing continuity in portability and ease of setup. In contrast, the 2012 model introduces a slimmer, square profile measuring 3.85 by 3.85 by 0.9 inches and weighing 8.5 ounces, adopting a matte finish and a form factor inspired by contemporary designs to enhance heat dissipation through improved airflow without . All generations are wall-mountable using compatible brackets for flexible placement, and the construction across models provides robustness while keeping the device versatile for travel or temporary setups.

Connectivity and Ports

The AirPort Express series provided wired connectivity options primarily through Ethernet and USB ports, enabling network integration, printer sharing, and limited expansion across its models released in 2004, 2008, and 2012. These ports were designed for simplicity in home and small office environments, supporting basic bridging and sharing functions without advanced features like built-in modems. Early models from 2004 and 2008 featured a single 10/100BASE-T Ethernet port that could function as either WAN for connection or LAN for direct device linking, such as to a computer or hub. This port facilitated wired or network extension, with auto-sensing for crossover cables to simplify setup. All models included a USB 2.0 port dedicated to printer sharing, allowing compatible USB printers to be connected and accessed over the via AirPort Utility configuration. The 2012 model introduced dual 10/100BASE-T Ethernet ports—one designated for WAN connectivity to a and the other for LAN to bridge additional wired devices—enhancing flexibility for small networks without upgrading to Gigabit speeds. The USB port remained unchanged, supporting printer sharing as a for up to multiple users on the network. Power input for all models relied on an external AC adapter rated for 100–240V AC at 50–60 Hz with 0.2A input current, delivering the necessary 5V DC internally for operation. No models included USB 3.0, USB-C, or a built-in modem, limiting expansion to USB 2.0 speeds and requiring external modems for broadband access.

Audio and AirPlay Capabilities

The AirPort Express provides audio output through a 3.5 mm minijack that functions as both an analog stereo connector and a mini-TOSLINK optical digital port, allowing connection to , systems, or AV receivers. This setup delivers uncompressed audio for wireless playback. The output supports resolutions up to 16-bit at a 44.1 kHz sample rate, aligning with CD-quality standards. The device is compatible with Apple Lossless (ALAC) encoding for bit-perfect transmission of lossless audio files, as well as DTS formats when using the digital optical output to pass signals to compatible receivers. AirPlay integration debuted with the original 2004 model under the name AirTunes, enabling wireless streaming of music libraries directly to the connected audio hardware over . The 2008 802.11n model introduced full 1 support, which expanded streaming from and early devices while maintaining compatibility with protected AAC and ALAC files. The 2012 model also shipped with 1 and gained 2 capabilities through a 2018 firmware update (version 7.8), adding multi-room audio synchronization, bufferless playback for reduced latency, and Home app integration for voice control. Typical use cases involve streaming music or podcasts from , macOS, or compatible third-party apps to the AirPort Express, which then routes the signal to attached speakers or receivers for whole-home or zoned audio playback. Unlike many modern devices, it lacks native support, depending entirely on Wi-Fi-based for wireless audio transmission. Key limitations include the absence of video streaming support, as AirPlay functionality is audio-only on the AirPort Express. Audio quality remains capped below high-resolution standards, limited to 16-bit/44.1 kHz even when sourcing higher-bitrate content, due to the device's internal DAC and protocol constraints.

Technical Specifications

Wireless Standards and Performance

The AirPort Express evolved through its revisions to incorporate advancing wireless standards, beginning with the 2004 model's support for IEEE 802.11b/g protocols on the 2.4 GHz band, delivering a maximum theoretical throughput of 54 Mbps. This configuration provided reliable connectivity for basic home networking and audio streaming, with for 802.11b devices to ensure broad device support. The 2008 revision introduced draft 802.11n compatibility with single-stream (1x1 ), enabling operation on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands—though not simultaneously—and boosting theoretical speeds to up to 150 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, approximately five times the prior model's performance. This upgrade also doubled the indoor range to approximately 300 feet while maintaining with 802.11a/b/g devices. By 2012, the model achieved full 802.11n certification with dual-stream (2x2 ) and simultaneous dual-band operation on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, supporting up to 300 Mbps per band and continuing support for legacy 802.11a/b/g/n clients across all generations. Security features across all AirPort Express models included support for WEP (40-bit and 128-bit encryption), WPA-Personal, and WPA2-Personal, but lacked WPA3 due to its post-discontinuation development. Performance metrics emphasized practical usability, with an indoor range of up to 150 feet for the initial model—extendable via multiple units—and capacity for up to 10 simultaneous users, aided by built-in NAT and DHCP for seamless . These capabilities prioritized stable, low-interference connections for audio streaming and small-scale home networks, though real-world throughput varied based on environmental factors and device proximity.

Hardware Components

The original 2004 AirPort Express model utilized the BCM4712 chipset, a single-core MIPS processor operating at 200 MHz that integrated networking functions for 802.11b/g support. In the 2008 revision, Apple adopted an enhanced MIPS-based processor that improved processing efficiency and supported the transition to 802.11n capabilities. The 2012 model shifted to the Atheros AR9344 system-on-chip (SoC), a dual-band radio SoC that handled both application processing and operations for simultaneous 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Memory configurations evolved across generations to accommodate increasing demands. The 2004 model featured 16 MB of RAM and 4 MB of flash storage for basic and operations. Later models upgraded to 32 MB RAM and 8 MB flash in 2008, while the 2012 version increased to 64 MB RAM and 16 MB flash, with flash partially integrated into the SoC. Antennas in the AirPort Express were internal designs, with the 802.11n models (2008 and 2012) incorporating diversity antennas to enable functionality, enhancing signal reliability and throughput in multi-path environments. Power consumption remained low across all models, typically ranging from 5-10 W under normal operation, supported by efficient chipsets and the absence of mechanisms such as fans.

Development History

Initial Launch (2004 Model)

Apple announced the AirPort Express on June 7, 2004, introducing it as the world's first 802.11g mobile base station designed for both Mac and PC users. The device, identified by model number A1084 (M9470LL/A), featured a compact, single-piece design weighing just 6.7 ounces, allowing it to plug directly into a wall outlet without needing an external power brick. Priced at $129 USD, it became available for shipping on July 14, 2004, following strong pre-order demand that exceeded 80,000 units. A key innovation of the initial AirPort Express was its integration of AirTunes, the first Wi-Fi-based audio streaming capability for , enabling users to wirelessly send music from their computers to a connected stereo system via a built-in 3.5 mm audio jack that supported both analog and optical digital output. This feature marked an early precursor to later technology, allowing for multi-room audio playback without additional hardware. Beyond audio streaming, the device functioned as a full with USB printer sharing and Ethernet connectivity, emphasizing portability for home or travel use. The shipped bundled with the AirPort Setup Assistant for initial configuration and the AirPort Admin Utility (version 4.0) for advanced management, available on CD for both Macintosh and Windows systems. It also included 4.6 with AirTunes support to facilitate immediate audio streaming setup. Supporting the 802.11g wireless standard for up to 54 Mbps speeds, the device provided reliable connectivity in a 2.4 GHz band. Upon release, the AirPort Express received positive reviews for its user-friendly simplicity and innovative audio features, with critics highlighting the seamless integration of wireless networking and streaming as a standout convenience for consumers. awarded it an 8.1 out of 10, praising its cross-platform compatibility and compact form factor despite minor setup hurdles on Windows. gave it an 8 out of 10, noting the AirTunes functionality as a justified premium over standard access points, though some reviewers pointed out limitations in range extension compared to larger base stations.

Revisions (2008 and 2012 Models)

In March 2008, Apple released the second-generation AirPort Express (model A1264, part number MB321LL/A), introducing support for the draft 802.11n wireless standard with operation on either the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency to enhance speed and reduce interference compared to the original model's single-band 802.11g. This update allowed the device to share a connection with up to 10 simultaneous users, maintaining its compact, wall-plug design at a price of $99. The revisions responded to evolving standards demanding higher throughput and to user needs for more reliable network bridging in home environments. The third-generation model (A1392, part number MC414LL/A) arrived in June 2012, fully implementing the ratified 802.11n standard with simultaneous dual-band support, while adding a second 10/100BASE-T Ethernet port to improve wired bridging capabilities alongside the existing WAN port. This redesign adopted a square form factor resembling the , with enhanced antenna configuration that extended effective range for better coverage in medium-sized spaces. Priced at $99, it continued to prioritize portability and ease of use, addressing demands for faster, more versatile connectivity amid the widespread adoption of 802.11n devices. Subsequent updates to these models involved minor internal refreshes, such as processor and optimizations, without altering the external or core features, sustaining compatibility until the product's discontinuation in 2018. These iterative changes ensured ongoing relevance for audio streaming and basic routing, with later additions like AirPlay 2 support applied via software updates.

Discontinuation (2018)

On April 26, 2018, Apple announced the discontinuation of its AirPort product line, including the AirPort Express, stating that no new routers would be developed as the company exited the market. The decision followed the disbanding of Apple's internal router development division in November 2016, which reassigned engineers to other projects amid a strategic shift toward core consumer devices and services. This move was influenced by intensifying competition from systems, such as Eero, which offered more advanced home solutions that Apple had not matched in updates since 2013; Apple later acquired Eero in January 2019. Following the announcement, Apple continued selling existing inventory through its online store, retail locations, and authorized resellers, but stocks of the AirPort Express began depleting rapidly. By mid-2018, the last units had sold out in many regions, with no successor product planned or released. The immediate aftermath saw no changes to the functionality of purchased units, which continued to operate as before, though Apple committed only to ongoing software support without any further hardware refreshes or new features.

Software and Management

AirPort Utility

AirPort Utility is a free software application developed by Apple for macOS and iOS devices, designed to facilitate the setup, configuration, management, and monitoring of AirPort wireless base stations, including the AirPort Express. Originally launched as AirPort Admin Utility in 1999 with the debut of Apple's initial AirPort Base Station, the tool provided essential network administration features for early Wi-Fi products. In 2007, coinciding with the introduction of the 802.11n AirPort Extreme, Apple renamed it AirPort Utility to reflect its expanded capabilities and integration with the evolving AirPort lineup. The application offers a range of key functions tailored for user-friendly network handling. Users can create and customize Wi-Fi , set access passwords, configure for specific services, and enable guest in supported later versions to provide isolated access for visitors. It includes tools for scanning and displaying connected devices, viewing graphical overviews of network status, and adjusting advanced settings such as security modes (e.g., WPA2), wireless channels, configurations, and DHCP options. Additionally, the iOS version supports scanning multiple simultaneously, allowing quick assessment of nearby devices. For capabilities on the Express, the utility enables basic audio streaming setup by configuring relevant network parameters. AirPort Utility maintains compatibility with modern operating systems, with the macOS version compatible with versions up to macOS Sequoia (released in 2024) and reported to work on subsequent versions as of November 2025, and the iOS app requiring 9.0 or later for devices like , , and . These versions ensure ongoing usability for legacy AirPort hardware on current Apple ecosystems, though the software's interface remains focused on local network interactions. One notable limitation of AirPort Utility is the absence of cloud-based remote management, requiring physical proximity or local network access for all operations. Device discovery relies on Apple's Bonjour protocol for , which uses to locate base stations on the same local network without manual IP entry. This design, while efficient for home and small office environments, can pose challenges in complex or segmented networks where Bonjour traffic may be restricted.

Firmware and Security Updates

The for the original 2004 AirPort Express (model A1084, supporting 802.11g) progressed to version 6.3, released on , 2006, which addressed reliability issues with AirTunes streaming, improved compatibility with other AirPort devices, and resolved connectivity problems with certain third-party routers. No further firmware updates were issued for this model after 2006. For the revised 2008 and 2012 AirPort Express models (both supporting 802.11n), firmware development continued under the 7.x series, with the final version being 7.8.1, released on June 20, 2019, which provided security enhancements for all 802.11n base stations. A notable prior release, version 7.8 on August 28, 2018, added support for 2 functionality, enabling multi-room audio and integration with the Home app despite the product's discontinuation earlier that year. Earlier in this series, version 7.6.9, released December 12, 2017, included patches for WPA2 vulnerabilities such as the exploits (CVE-2017-13077, CVE-2017-13078, CVE-2017-13080), which could allow attackers to decrypt wireless traffic. Firmware updates for all AirPort Express models are delivered exclusively through the AirPort Utility software, available for macOS, , and Windows. The utility performs automatic checks for available updates when the base station is connected via Ethernet cable, recommending a wired connection to ensure stability during the installation process, which typically requires the device to restart. Regarding security, AirPort Express devices received patches for known WPA2 weaknesses, including the 2017 vulnerabilities, but they do not support WPA3 due to hardware limitations in the 802.11g and 802.11n chipsets. The 7.8.1 update in 2019 addressed additional unspecified security issues, marking the last firmware release for the product line, with no updates provided since then. As of 2025, newly discovered vulnerabilities in and legacy protocols remain unpatched, posing potential risks to users and prompting calls for Apple to resume support.

Legacy and Current Status

Impact on Users

Following the discontinuation of the AirPort Express in 2018, owners have encountered several compatibility challenges when integrating the device into contemporary networks. While the AirPort Express remains functional for basic Wi-Fi connectivity and management via modern versions of macOS and iOS through the AirPort Utility app, it is limited to the 802.11n wireless standard and does not support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), restricting its performance in high-speed, dense environments. The 2012 second-generation model, however, received a firmware update in 2018 that enabled AirPlay 2 compatibility, allowing it to serve as a multi-room audio receiver in Apple's ecosystem even after discontinuation. Users face notable challenges in maintaining and expanding their networks due to the device's outdated architecture and lack of ongoing official support. Expanding coverage via wireless bridging or mesh-like setups is hindered without third-party firmware, as options like are not supported on AirPort Express hardware, leaving owners reliant on Apple's final firmware version from 2019. Additionally, the absence of security patches since that update exposes devices to unpatched vulnerabilities, such as the AirBorne exploits targeting , which could enable remote code execution and network compromise without user interaction. To mitigate these issues, many owners repurpose the AirPort Express in limited roles, such as pairing it with modern extenders from third-party vendors like or to bridge Ethernet connections while disabling its own radio, or configuring it solely as an receiver connected via audio output to legacy speakers. Post-2018 discontinuation, the resale value of used units has significantly declined, with second-generation models now typically fetching $20 to $50 on secondary markets, down from their original $99 retail price. The user community has actively responded through online forums, where discussions on platforms like and Apple Support Communities focus on legacy setups, compatibility, and custom configurations to prolong device usability, though on advanced user modifications remains fragmented and incomplete in public resources.

Ongoing Support and Alternatives

As of July 2025, Apple has classified the and most other products as obsolete, meaning the company no longer provides hardware servicing, repair parts, or official support for these devices. The last update for the , version 7.8.1, was released in June 2019 to address security vulnerabilities, and no further updates have been issued since then. While hardware warranties expired years ago with the 2018 discontinuation, the AirPort Utility software remains available and functional for configuration on current versions of macOS and , allowing existing devices to operate without an announced end-of-support date for software compatibility. Apple has not outlined specific ongoing maintenance plans for the AirPort Express beyond this software availability, reflecting a shift away from since the product's discontinuation. In the absence of official repairs or parts, users must rely on third-party solutions for any hardware issues. For networking needs, Apple owns Eero, a mesh system acquired in 2019, which serves as a seamless alternative integrating with Apple ecosystems. For AirPlay streaming functionality originally provided by the AirPort Express, Apple directs users to devices like the or , which support 2 and later protocols natively. In 2025, there have been no new developments or revivals for the AirPort Express, with its 802.11n standard (Wi-Fi 4) increasingly obsolete compared to modern and 7 technologies, potentially rendering it incompatible with future devices and requirements by 2026 according to industry analyses. Community discussions highlight growing vulnerabilities due to unpatched , underscoring the need for migration to contemporary alternatives, though Apple has not confirmed a precise full end-of-life timeline.

References

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  36. https://www.apple.com/sg/newsroom/2008/04/17Apple-Introduces-New-AirPort-Express-with-802-11n/
  37. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/3064394
  38. https://wikidevi.wi-cat.ru/Broadcom_BCM4712
  39. https://www.vonwentzel.net/ABS/Dissection-Express/
  40. https://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wireless/wireless-reviews/apple-airport-express-2012-reviewed/
  41. https://weblog.rogueamoeba.com/2012/06/19/airport-express-disassembly/
  42. https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/List_of_AirPort_Routers
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  45. https://www.apple.com/environment/reports/docs/AirPortExpress_PER_feb2014.pdf
  46. https://www.tpcdb.com/product.php?id=1819
  47. https://9to5mac.com/2018/04/26/apple-airport-cancellation/
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  49. https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/4/26/17287434/apple-airport-time-capsule-routers-discontinued
  50. https://www.macrumors.com/2018/05/17/apple-selling-out-of-airport-base-stations/
  51. https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/apples-airport-extreme-base-station-routers-sold-out/
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  54. https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2018/04/apple-exits-wi-fi-game-airport-routers-discontinued-after-stock-sells-out/
  55. https://tidbits.com/2012/02/01/airport-utility-6-0-adds-icloud-support-but-removes-many-features/
  56. https://support.apple.com/guide/aputility/about-airport-utility-aprtc6ff2ed9/mac
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  58. https://roaringapps.com/app/airport-utility
  59. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/256042309
  60. https://support.apple.com/en-us/106794
  61. https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/apple-releases-airport-extreme-firmware-5-7-express-firmware-6-3-first-intel-compatible-releases/
  62. https://support.apple.com/en-us/106601
  63. https://9to5mac.com/2018/08/28/airport-express-airplay-2-homekit/
  64. https://www.macrumors.com/2017/12/12/apple-airport-base-station-firmware-update-2/
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  67. https://9to5mac.com/2019/06/20/airport-firmware-security-update/
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  70. https://firmware-selector.openwrt.org/
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  72. https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/airplay-to-homepod-mini-drops-when-using-airport-express-as-extender.2411130/
  73. https://community.tp-link.com/us/home/forum/topic/682444
  74. https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/airport-extreme-express-resale-values.2406317/
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  76. https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/how-to-set-up-an-old-airport-express-solved.2424980/
  77. https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/11/apples-airport-products-are-now-obsolete-with-one-exception/
  78. https://australianapplenews.com/2025/07/14/apple-has-reduced-support-for-almost-all-of-its-airport-products/
  79. https://www.macrumors.com/2025/07/13/apple-airport-might-return-in-unexpected-way/
  80. https://www.letemsvetemapplem.eu/en/2025/03/04/popularni-routery-od-applu-se-nejspis-vrati-tentokrat-ale-trochu-jinak/
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