AVM begins rollout of FRITZ!OS 8.50 update

AVM has begun the rollout of FRITZ!OS 8.50, a major operating system update for its FRITZ! devices. The update is entering a beta phase, starting with models such as the FRITZ!Box 7690 and FRITZ!Box 5630, with a gradual release planned for other current FRITZ!Box and FRITZ!Repeater devices in the coming weeks and months.

Key features of the update include a new DNS filter designed to block advertisements, trackers, malware, phishing sites, and botnets across all devices in a home network. The MyFRITZ!App will receive a ‘Smart Check’ feature to provide network transparency and security recommendations.

To improve home office and gaming performance, the software can automatically prioritize real-time communication applications, such as video conferencing. Additionally, FRITZ! Failsafe functionality is now available for 4G and 5G models, allowing for automatic mobile internet failover if a fixed connection is interrupted. For telephony, a new ‘Simple Mode’ and an SOS function for emergency contacts have also been introduced.