Bose SoundTouch owners face end-of-life changes as Bose releases API documentation

Ars Technica
Ars Technica
12h ago
Bose released API documentation for SoundTouch speakers as the company moves toward an end-of-life plan that removes cloud features and updates while keeping some wireless functions working.
Bose SoundTouch owners face end-of-life changes as Bose releases API documentation
A What happened
Bose announced SoundTouch Wi‑Fi speakers and soundbars will lose cloud connectivity, the companion app, and security and software updates on February 18, leaving AUX, HDMI, or Bluetooth as connection options. Bose later emailed customers that AirPlay and Spotify Connect will still work after end-of-life, and AirPlay 2-capable SoundTouch devices will still be able to play the same audio simultaneously. Bose said the SoundTouch app will update on May 6, 2026 to a version that supports functions that can operate locally without the cloud. Bose emailed customers SoundTouch API documentation so independent developers can create SoundTouch-compatible tools and features.

Key insights

  • 1

    Bose kept some wireless features working past end-of-life: Bose told customers AirPlay and Spotify Connect will still work with SoundTouch speakers after end-of-life, and AirPlay 2-capable devices will still support synchronized playback.

  • 2

    Bose enabled third-party development via API documentation: Bose emailed customers SoundTouch API documentation so independent developers can create SoundTouch-compatible tools and features.

  • 3

    The text cites a common reason companies avoid open-sourcing smart devices: The text states companies may avoid open-sourcing because of concern that the device and the original maker could become associated with a controversial hack.

Takeaways

Bose is proceeding with SoundTouch end-of-life changes while preserving limited local and wireless functionality and providing API documentation for independent developers.

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