Apple has long been synonymous with innovation in the technology world, and one of its groundbreaking creations, the AirPort Express also known as “1st Generation”, remains a hallmark of its pioneering spirit. Launched in July 2004, the AirPort Express revolutionized wireless audio streaming, offering users unparalleled freedom in enjoying their favorite music without the constraints of wires.
At its core, the AirPort Express was designed to simplify the way users streamed music. With its compact size and advanced features, it quickly gained traction in the market. Apple’s announcement of the world’s first 802.11g mobile base station with wireless Internet connections and USB printing capabilities reshaped how people envisioned connectivity both at home and on the go.
One of the standout features of the AirPort Express was its ability to seamlessly integrate with existing home stereo systems. With both analog and digital audio outputs, users could effortlessly connect it to their preferred audio setup. The introduction of AirTunes music networking software further elevated the experience, enabling wireless streaming of iTunes music from Mac or PC to any room in the house.
Phil Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, highlighted the immense potential of the AirPort Express, citing its groundbreaking features and the overwhelming response it received from consumers. With over 80,000 pre-orders, it was clear that the device struck a chord with music lovers seeking convenience and quality.
Setting up the AirPort Express was a breeze, thanks to its intuitive design and seamless integration with iTunes. Users could easily detect remote speakers and select them within the iTunes interface, paving the way for hassle-free wireless streaming.
Weighing just 6.7 ounces and featuring a single-piece, compact design, the AirPort Express offered unparalleled portability without compromising on functionality. It allowed users to share a single DSL or cable broadband account with up to 10 simultaneous users, catering to the needs of both individuals and small groups.
Apple prioritized the security of its users’ data with advanced features such as WiFi Protected Access (WPA), 128-bit encryption, and a built-in firewall. These measures ensured peace of mind for users, safeguarding their networked computers from potential threats.
Upon its initial release, the AirPort Express was priced at $129, making it an attractive option for consumers looking to enter the realm of wireless audio streaming. It was widely available through the Apple Store, retail outlets, and authorized resellers, ensuring accessibility for users worldwide.
Although the AirPort Express was eventually discontinued by Apple in 2008, its legacy continues to endure. Now 19 years old, the device remains a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of technology. Despite its discontinuation, the AirPort Express remains fondly remembered for its forward-thinking design and its role in shaping the future of audio streaming technology.
AirPort Express Details
| Introduced | July 7, 2004 – 19 years ago |
| Discontinued | March 17, 2008 – 16 years ago |
| Time on the Market | 44 months (3 years) |
| Model Number | A1084 A1088 |
| Order Number | M9470LL/A |
| Original Price | $129 |
| Weight | 6.7 oz. 189 Grams |
| Dimensions | 3.7″ D x 2.95″ H x 1.12″ W 9.39 cm D x 7.49 cm H x 2.84 cm W |
Wireless Specs
| Wireless Data Range | Up to 54 Mbps |
| Range | 150 ft. / 50 m (11 Mbps) 50 ft. / 15 m (54 Mbps) |
| Compatibility | Wi-Fi (802.11b/g) |
| Frequency | 2.4 GHz |
| Radio Output Power | 15 dBm (nominal) |
| Security | WPA WPA2 WEP (40-bit or 128-bit encryption) |
| Capacity | 10 users |
| Supported Protocols | NAT DHCP FTP PPPoE VPN Passthrough (IPSec, PPTP, and L2TP) QuickTime Streaming DNS Proxy SNMP |
Connections
| Ports | 1 – RJ-45 1 – USB 1 – 3.5 mm mini-audio jack for analog or optical digital sound |
| Storage | None |
| AirPlay | Yes (Stream iTunes to external speakers) |
| Power over Ethernet | No |
Further Reading and References
- AirPort Express: Technical Specifications – Apple Support
- Apple Ships New AirPort Express with AirTunes – Apple Newsroom
- AirPort Express – Wikipedia
- How Apple AirPort Express Works – HowStuffWorks
- Apple AirPort Express Review – Trusted Reviews
- Apple AirPort Express Wi-Fi Hub-D/A processor – Stereophile (Image 1 Source)
- Referencing Apple WI-FI devices: Airport, Airport Extreme, Airport Express and Airport Time Capsule – Freney (Image 2 Source)
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