Google OnHub Router Ends Up Being a Chromebook In Cylindrical Form

[DroidModderX]

The OnHub router by Google is a bit of a mystery. Google has not really gone into depth about the technology that makes this thing tick. We know that it is a Cylinder with inactive radios and firmware that can be easily update. Some developers decided the OnHub needed rooting. Apparently they subscribe to the theory of "ROOT ALL THE THINGS!".

What they found when they dug through this router was pretty surprising. It turns out the OnHub is actually a Chromebook in router's clothing! Some developers from "Exploitee.rs" figured this out by dumping the SPI flash and eMMC from the board. The device runs a modified ChromiumOS to make it function as a router! They were able to gain root by accessing the hidden switch screw on the bottom of the router which enables developer mode. Rooting this device is as easy as booting into a modified developer mode! Now that we know this is essentially a Chromebook and we have root we may see some custom firmware for this device.

via Exploitee.rs

 

[Jeffrey]

Not sure how I missed this post

Looks like the OnHub is one of the most sophisticated routers on the market. 802.15.4 technology is coming down the pike and this device already supports it. Having Bluetooth 4.0 on your router is a nice enhancement as well.
According to Google, The OnHub supports up to 128 simultaneous connected devices without any lag in performance. Looks like I may need a new router...

Tech Specs
Size and weight
Unit weight 1.9lb
Package weight 3.5lb
Unit dimensions 7.5in tall x 4.6in diameter
Package dimensions 10.8in x 5.0in x 5.0in
Hardware
CPU IPQ8064 Dual Core 1.4GHz
e-MMC flash 4GB
Memory 1GB DDR3L
NOR flash 8MB
USB port 1x USB3.0
Speaker 3W
Ambient light sensor Included
LED Six tri-color arrays
Trusted Platform Module Infineon SLB 9615
Compatibility
Thread (coming soon) 802.15.4 conformance
Bluetooth Bluetooth 4.0
Wireless security WPA2-PSK
Electrical and environmental requirements
DC in <12V*3A
AC in 100~240V 50~60Hz
Operating temperature ranges 0-40°C
Operating humidity 0-90% humidity; non-condensing
Networking
2.4 GHz wireless 802.11b/g/n 3x3 with smart antenna
5 GHz wireless 802.11a/n/ac 3x3 with smart antenna
AUX wireless 802.11a/b/g/n/ac 1x1
Ethernet switch QCA8337 Gigabit sw
WAN port 1x 10/100/1000 Mbps
LAN port 1x 10/100/1000 Mbps
System requirements
A broadband Internet connection. For initial setup, the Google On app on a device with Android 4.0 or higher or iOS 7 or higher is required.