Apple hasn’t updated their AirPort lineup in nearly 5 years, and today we’ve learned that Apple is officially leaving the router business, as their AirPort lineup has now been discontinued. The discontinuation of the AirPort Express ($99), the AirPort Extreme ($199), and the Time Capsule ($299) marks the end of an era for the Cupertino based company.

This isn’t the first we’ve heard of Apple’s plans to end the AirPort lineup, as back in 2016 Bloomberg reported that Apple had begun to shut down the division, moving AirPort focused employees to other roles within the company. The announcement today marks the culmination of those efforts.

The discontinuation doesn’t mark the immediate end of AirPort routers, as Apple will continue selling remaining stock in stores and through Apple.com. In addition, support and software updates will be available for at least the next 5 years, allowing users time to move away from their wireless routers. Apple plans to help users in that transition, and has already published a new support document sharing tips for choosing a new router that works with Apple devices.

Apple’s AirPort routers provided users with unique features that likely won’t be available with any other router, such as AirPlay music streaming in the AirPort Express, as well network backups via Time Machine with the Time Capsule (or an AirPort with a USB drive connected). Those features can be replicated with extra hardware, but having the features built in helped the AirPort line stand out in the router crowd.

For users looking to move away from the AirPort lineup following this announcement, a mesh WiFi system is likely the way to go these days. There are plenty of great options available to fit your specific needs, so doing your homework before jumping into one system would be a great idea. Personally, I’m looking to switch to Google WiFi, as I’ve heard great things about it from a few friends who have moved in that direction.

What are your thoughts on Apple killing off their router brand? If you were an AirPort user, what are your plans for your WiFi now? Let us know!