AVM announces FRITZ!OS 8.50 update with new security and smart home features

AVM has announced the upcoming FRITZ!OS 8.50 update, currently available in a laboratory beta version for several FRITZ!Box models. The update introduces several key features aimed at improving network diagnostics, security, and smart home integration.

A central addition is the ‘Smart Check’ feature within the MyFRITZ! app, which provides automatic status analyses for WLAN, mesh connections, telephony, and smart home systems, offering troubleshooting tips for optimization. For enhanced security, a system-wide DNS filter will be implemented to block phishing attempts, malware, and advertising trackers across all connected devices, with support for community blocklists.

Smart home capabilities are being expanded through a Matter bridge function, specifically for the FRITZ!Box 5690 Pro, allowing seamless integration with ecosystems such as Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa. Additionally, the update includes automatic prioritization of real-time communication to stabilize video conferences. For mobile-based models (4G and 5G), new failover options have been introduced to improve connection reliability.