As expected, Apple today released a new AirPort utility app on the iTunes App Store designed to allow users of Apple based wi-fi hardware to administer their Time Capsule, AirPort Extreme or AirPort express devices via their iOS 5 based iPhone or iPad.
Apple originally stated that they planned to place thee AirPort based utility software directly into iOS 5, but seem to have had a change of heart since their original iOS 5 announcements.
Apple states that you can“Use AirPort Utility to manage your Wi-Fi network and AirPort base stations, including AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, and TimeCapsule – right from your iPad, iPhone, iPod touch. See a graphical overview of your Wi-Fi network and devices. Change base station and network settings, or manage advanced features such as security modes, wireless channels, and more. AirPort Utility works with all Apple 802.11n Wi-Fi base stations, including AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, and Time Capsule.”
The application allows users to configure their base station and network settings such as wireless channels, security modes and more while providing you with a neat graphical UI. It also lets you update passwords, port mappings and restart your base station too. This is yet another sign that Apple is moving ahead with its notion of having iOS as “PC-Free” as possible.
The AirPort Utility is free and will work with any iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch device that has been upgraded to iOS 5.