Apple has released a new version of its Airport Express wireless networking base.

The new version brings support for the 802.11n norm which has been adopted by Apple a year and a half ago.

Now featuring support for the faster 802.11n Wi-Fi specification, the new AirPort Express Base Station delivers up to five times the performance and twice the range of the previous model. The world’s smallest 802.11n-based mobile base station, the new AirPort Express offers a great option for anyone who wants to set up a high-speed wireless network, share a printer wirelessly, or stream iTunes music wirelessly from a Mac or PC with AirTunes. And because its so compact, you can take AirPort Express with you and set up an ad hoc wireless network in your hotel room. Available immediately for Mac and Windows, AirPort Express sells for just $99.00.

The new Airport Express base remains at $99 and is available immediately.

Hints at the release of a renewed Airport Express base were leaked on Apple Swiss web site a few days ago.