August 26, 2026, 3:33 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
Currently, many Fritzboxes and Fritz!Repeaters are running Fritz!OS 8.20. However, Fritz! (formerly AVM) is already working on the next major version. Fritz!OS 8.50 is set to bring a comprehensive update with new security features, additional smart home capabilities, network optimizations, and further improvements for the MyFritz!App. Some features can already be tested in a public beta version.
Fritz!OS 8.50 Promises More Than Previous Updates
With Fritz!OS 8.20, Fritz introduced numerous innovations, including an online monitor for tracking data-intensive devices in the home network, a fail-safe for network disruptions, and improvements to parental controls. Subsequent updates with Fritz!OS 8.24 and 8.25 aimed primarily at resolving issues, as the major update did not run smoothly on some Fritzbox models.
With Fritz!OS 8.50, the manufacturer is taking a different approach. Instead of focusing mainly on bug fixes and stability improvements, the new version is set to include numerous additional features. Owners of a Fritzbox 5690 Pro can already test one of these features. The current DSL and fiber optic top model now supports the smart home standard Matter in the Fritz beta. In addition to DECT-ULE and ZigBee, the Fritzbox can now integrate Matter devices into the smart home.
Additionally, the Fritzbox 5690 Pro can be used as a Matter bridge, allowing Fritz smart home devices to more easily collaborate with platforms like Apple Home, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa.
New DNS Filter to Block Ads and Malicious Sites
One of the most notable new features of the update is a DNS filter. This can block known malware sites, phishing offers, trackers, and excessive advertising upon request. The filtering applies not only to individual devices but to the entire home network.
Until now, ad blockers were often limited to specific web browsers and primarily used on computers. The new DNS filter aims to extend filtering to other devices, explicitly including smartphones and smart TVs. Users can utilize freely available block lists for this purpose.
Also new is the automatic prioritization of important network connections. The Fritzbox will soon be able to recognize when certain applications need to be prioritized. This is intended to ensure a more stable connection, especially for video conferences and other real-time applications.
When prioritization is activated, the Fritzbox displays the status directly on the respective network device in its user interface. The display remains visible for up to 24 hours. Initially, the feature is available for the Fritzbox 5690 Pro and the Fritzbox 7690. More models are expected to follow later.
More Options in the Smart Home
Fritz is also expanding the functionality in the smart home. In the future, routines can be combined with multiple triggers. Additionally, automations can be started based on location using geofencing.
Previously, routines could only be triggered by phone calls or the occurrence of a specific event. More complex processes will be possible in the future. Fritz! provides an example of an automation where a Fritz!Thermostat 302 is activated when the temperature at home falls below a set value.
With Matter support and the new Matter bridge function, collaboration with other smart home platforms is also expected to be easier. Fritz! devices can more easily connect with the ecosystems of Apple, Google, and Amazon.
Also of interest: Fritzbox receives smart home upgrade many have been waiting for
FritzFon and MyFritzApp Receive New Features
Not only the smart home will benefit from Fritz!OS 8.50. The manufacturer also plans additional features for the Fritz!Fon. New is a “Simple Mode,” which provides a streamlined interface with the most important telephony functions.
Part of the new mode is also an SOS function. Users can store up to four emergency contacts there. In case of emergency, these are automatically called one after the other.
The My!FritzApp is also being expanded. The new “Smart Check” feature analyzes the condition of the Fritzbox, Fritz!Repeater, and other Fritz! products within the home network.
The app then provides tips and solutions for various areas, including Wi-Fi, internet, telephony, smart home, and security. For example, Smart Check can alert users to missing mesh connections or offer recommendations for better securing the home network. Additionally, Fritz! integrates service pages and a chatbot directly into the app.
AVM Releases Fritz!OS 8.20 With More Than 40 New Features
Fritzbox 7590 AX Receives Major Update to Fritz!OS 8.20
Fail-Safe Soon Available for Mobile Models
Owners of mobile routers will also benefit from Fritz!OS 8.50. The fail-safe “FritzFailsafe” will soon be extended to these devices. The feature was introduced with Fritz!OS 8.20 and ensures that if the landline connection fails, it automatically switches to a mobile connection. Currently, a mobile-capable device connected via USB is required.
In the future, mobile models like the Fritzbox 6860 5G and Fritzbox 6825 4G will be able to use their LAN connection for internet access for the first time. These devices will also benefit from the extended fail-safe.
When Will Fritz!OS 8.50 Be Released?
Fritz has not yet announced a release date for Fritz!OS 8.50. However, the manufacturer currently provides a beta version. It serves as a public test version and offers an early look at upcoming features.
Also of interest: Vodafone launches new Fritzbox with Wi-Fi 7 for cable connections
Users can already try out the new features and provide feedback to the developers. As with all beta versions, the features are still in development and are not considered fully mature. Fritz! notes that there may be instabilities when operating the Fritzbox. Therefore, the manufacturer recommends backing up your profile before testing.