Main points
- Sonos plans to release a major app update on May 7, focusing on an improved user interface.
- The new app will feature a customizable home page, a simplified setup wizard and an improved Now Playing screen.
- The new app is expected to launch ahead of Sonos launching new wireless headphones this summer.
Sonos is preparing to release a major update to its popular app that will overhaul the software’s user interface. We’ve long known that the company has been working on a major overhaul, but according to a tip from The Verge , we now know that the launch date will be May 7.
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The most notable change for users is definitely the improved interface. The app’s tabbed navigation has apparently been completely abandoned in favor of a new “home” experience.
The new home interface will be customizable by design, allowing you to rearrange playlists and music service sources as needed. The new search bar will feature prominently throughout the interface, and the revamped mini player will now support volume controls for easier access.
The app’s now-playback screen will also receive some attention, with new shuffle and repeat buttons being placed alongside other typical media controls.
Sonos may also make setting up new hardware easier. The revised setup wizard should make the process easier to follow. This is especially noteworthy when you consider that the audio company is preparing to launch its first wireless headphones later this summer.
Once you’ve set up your device, a new System section in the app will bring together relevant settings and controls for all connected Sonos speakers.
A new app user experience but built on existing software
Sonos is expected to launch the software as an update to its existing Sonos S2 app. It’s unclear whether the updated app will continue to reference the “S2” moniker or drop it entirely. It’s unclear whether the update will arrive on both iOS and Android.
We do know that the app icon itself will be getting a new coat of paint, and it will now display the Sonos logo on a black background. The new app logo suggests the possibility of a broader rebranding strategy, but we’ll have to wait and see.
As always, the rumored redesigned app is set to launch on May 7, a date that could change at any time. The audio company’s new headphones won’t launch until sometime in June, so it could delay the software release if it deems more testing necessary.
Once the update is released, you can download it from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
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