BT has unveiled the latest version of its Home Hub broadband router, adding support for 802.11n wireless technology.

The new smaller curved black case has been designed to better blend in with the majority of today's TVs and entertainment systems.

As well as a new design and support for the new wireless platform, Home Hub promises a simplified install process, parental controls, power-saving options and default WPA encryption.

Previous versions defaulted to WEP security, which is easily cracked.

"The new Hub will give you up to twice the wireless range of our competitors, giving our customers much more coverage in the home even in those 'difficult-to-reach' areas," said John Petter, managing director of BT Retail Consumer.

"The 'n' standard technology also helps to prevent your wireless connection from annoyingly disappearing by providing a much more efficient wireless signal. "

Customers wishing to make use of the new 802.11n technology will need to make sure the wireless adaptors in their mobile devices can support the technology.

Currently most only support wireless 'b' and 'g' but many new and upcoming laptops and other wireless devices will support the 'n' protocol.

From 18 July the new Home Hub will be free to new customers who sign up to a BT Total Broadband Option 3 or 4 contract. Those who order Option 2 online can also receive the new Hub for free, but will have to pay £40 for the phone.

Existing customers can purchase the new Hub for half price of £45, although again the phone will have to be bought separately.

BT also announced that subscribers to its Vision service, will be receiving the Setanta Sports 1 channel for free.