Not only has Apple updated its Time Capsule line, it’s also updated its AirPort Extreme Base Station. However, the new model doesn’t have a Thunderbolt port as some expected.

Thunderbolt is a new high-speed computer connection technology that brings together high-speed data transfer and high-definition (HD) display on to a single cable. It’s already appeared on the latest MacBook Pros and iMacs — and is expected to appear on upcoming MacBook Airs, Mac Pros and Mac mini.

As with previous versions, the new AirPort Extreme (US$179) operates in the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and lets you share the Internet and your wireless network with up to 50 users. You can also turn an USB hard drive into a shared drive that’s accessible wirelessly on your network and over the Internet.

— Dennis Sellers