September 17, 2024, 10:21 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Once a year, AVM releases a major FritzOS update. This year, it is FritzOS 8.0, which brings over 60 new features to the Fritzbox as well as the manufacturer’s repeaters, telephones, and numerous DECT devices. TECHBOOK provides an overview of the most important new features and optimizations.
AVM had already tested many of the new functions in FritzOS 8.0 before the official release. The various lab updates should ensure the final update runs flawlessly on the routers and home network devices. The firmware update is now ready and is gradually being rolled out for the various AVM devices. The Fritzbox 7590 AX will be the first.
Overview
FritzOS 8.0 brings 60 new features to Fritzbox and co.
FritzOS 8.0 promises users a better overview and more control over their home network. For example, AVM has adapted some displays and gives users more freedom in naming connected devices. The firmware update brings a total of 60 new features that affect different areas such as smart home, telephony, Internet, and the home network in general. The update will also improve the security and stability of all Fritz products.
More control with new online monitor
Which devices are connected to the home network, and how high is their utilization? In the future, users will be able to answer these questions at a glance using the new online monitor. It makes it possible to monitor the Internet connection utilization by individual devices in the home and guest network. This allows users to see which devices are particularly data-intensive at any given time. The online monitor also helps to identify unauthorized devices connected to the home network.
AVM now displays these devices with icons to identify them. As a rule, the system recognizes the corresponding icon itself – for example, a telephone icon appears on a smartphone or landline phone. However, if the display does not fit or the user wants to change it for other reasons, the icon can be changed at any time from a selection list.
New options for the smart home
At IFA, AVM announced a realignment of its smart home system. This includes renaming devices that are already available so that they are easier to recognize. With FritzOS 8.0, the manufacturer is also expanding the range of functions on the software side.
In the future, for example, the Fritz!DECT 350 window and door contact will be able to communicate even better with selected radiator controllers from AVM. If the sensor detects an open window or balcony door, the thermostat automatically switches off the heating. Another new feature is that the adjustable temperature of the radiator controllers can be limited by minimum and maximum values.
In addition, new templates allow users to set more than just the desired temperature for their radiator controllers. They can also adjust the brightness, saturation, and color of lamps as well as the position of roller shutters in percentage values, which should enable even more precise control than before.
Set up Fritzbox via smartphone
With the MyFritz app, AVM also allows access to the Fritzbox while on the move. It can now also be used to set up the Fritzbox via a step-by-step guide. According to AVM, all users have to do is open the app and scan the QR code displayed. The initial setup wizard will do the rest.
Telephony, Internet, and VPN
FritzOS 8.0 brings minor adjustments in the areas of telephony, Internet, and VPN. For example, anyone using a Fritzbox with a DECT base in the office or store will be able to make up to five calls at the same time instead of the previous three. According to AVM, this will be possible for the Fritzboxes 7590, 7590 AX, and 7583 at the start.
AVM introduced WireGuard as a VPN solution back in 2021. The function was gradually expanded further. FritzOS 8.0 adds support for iPv6 data transmission, which should make it easier to set up secure connections to the home network. Using a QR code or software, users can establish encrypted connections on smartphones, notebooks, or PCs.
FritzOS 8.0 also has other new functions and improvements, all of which AVM lists in the release notes.
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How to get the update on the Fritzbox
As a rule, the Fritzboxes automatically indicate when an update is available. All users have to do is call up the menu. They can do this by entering fritz.box in the browser bar and then logging in with their access data. All relevant information can be found under “System” and “Update”. If the automatic update function is activated, FritzOS 8.0 will download automatically.
It will take a while until FritzOS 8.0 is available on all current devices. Initially, AVM will update the Fritzbox 7590 AX. Other Fritzboxes, as well as repeaters, powerline adapters, and the FritzFon, will follow.