Amidst all the hubbub with yesterday's Apple TV and iPhone announcements, Apple also released an updated AirPort Extreme Base Station. The new unit, which runs on the 802.11n networking standard, is cited as up to five times faster boast twice the range of it predecessors.

Breaking from the classic "flying saucer" design that these units have been associated with for years, the new AirPort Extreme Base Station sports a smooth, square form factor similar to the Apple TV and Mac Min, measuring 6.5" square and 1.3" in height.

Although the new model is based on the 802.11n networking standard, the device is compatible with both the older 802.11b and 802.11g standards and devices. The 802.11n protocol uses a Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) technology to both communicate with older products as well as run at faster speeds while offering a longer communications range. The 802.11n standard can support up to 50 simultaneous wireless connections at once, perhaps replacing environments with multiple older AirPort Base Stations currently in place.

The new units will ship in February and be priced at $179.

Pictures of the unit will be available with today's photo gallery.

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