The company has unveiled three shells for the OnHub which are meant to be placed over the device to give it some added visual appeal.
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Designers of the range of OnHub covers include Bower, a Brookyln studio that produces contemporary furniture; James DeVito, an interactive lighting and electronics artist; and Brook&Lyn, an LA-based husband-and-wife team that create objects, furniture and interiors that are inspired by fashion and culture. Available in bamboo, black and silver, and white and gold for between $29 and $39, they’re all super blah, especially compared to the designer shells.
The idea is a cool one and allows owners of the OnHub to personalize the device to ensure that it fits – in a design sense – into their home. The third one looks quite different with its wood texture. Meanwhile, OnHub Makers is essentially a marketplace for artists who have created some very interesting OnHub Shells, ranging from Shells that double as lamps or fruit bowls, Shells covered in art, wool or fur, and even a slinky router. Google has encouraged everyone to follow their example and thus gather a nice collection of OnHub routers.
As part of the new community, Google has shared the designs so you can download them and create your own. Google has made the Maker Packet available for 3D files, or simple patterns and guidelines that would work.
Creators can tag a photo of their creation on social media using #OnHubMakers and, if selected, their creation can appear in the Maker Gallery online.
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Google is no stranger to releasing products that are ahead of their time (we’re looking at you Nexus Q), but doesn’t everyone want better Wi-Fi? “Routers are often an eyesore, with blinking lights, a mess of wires, and unsightly antennas – so we hide them under desks or behind cabinets, which leads to spotty connections and dead zones”. Sound off on your favorite design offered by Google.
