FRITZ!

News Summary:

On October 4, 2026, FRITZ!, formerly known as AVM, commenced the rollout of FRITZ!OS 8.50, a significant firmware update for its routers and mesh repeaters. The FRITZ!Box 7690 was the initial model to receive the software, with broader distribution planned for current FRITZ!Box and FRITZ!Repeater models in the coming weeks. This update incorporates DNS filtering, automatic prioritization, and Matter bridge support. Previously, on September 29, 2026, AVM began deploying FRITZ!OS 8.50 to initial FRITZ!Box models, highlighting features such as a DNS filter to block ads and trackers, a new diagnostic tool called Smart Check, and automatic prioritization for gaming and video calls. Earlier, on September 23, 2026, the company promoted its FRITZ! products by stressing network stability over speed for gaming, noting that FRITZ!OS 8.50 automatically prioritizes gaming traffic, while new routers like the FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro and FRITZ!Box 6690 Pro, alongside new mesh repeaters, are designed to ensure consistent home network stability. In September 2026, FRITZ! also introduced FritzOS 8.40 as a laboratory update, bringing seven new features and 48 adjustments to four FRITZ!Box models. The company had unveiled its latest generation of Wi-Fi 7 FRITZ!Box routers at IFA 2026 on September 8, 2026, simultaneously announcing that FRITZ!OS 8.50 would introduce Matter Bridge functionality, allowing compatible smart home devices connected to a FRITZ!Box to integrate with Apple Home and other Matter ecosystems.