- SoundTouch speakers will lose cloud services in May 2026
- Bose has published an API for third-party app developers
- Spotify Connect and AirPlay will continue to work
Bose's SoundTouch speakers, introduced in 2013, are set to lose their cloud services in May 2026. The company stated, "we’re no longer able to sustain the development and support of the cloud infrastructure that powers this older generation of products." Instead of making these devices obsolete, Bose has provided extensive information on how to continue using them via Bluetooth and AirPlay, along with an API for third-party developers to enhance SoundTouch features.
Imagine owning a multi-room wireless speaker like the Bose SoundTouch 20, originally priced around $399 / £350 / AU$549, and not having it rendered useless. Thanks to Bose's approach, this won't be the case.
A Smarter Way to Handle Smart Speaker Obsolescence
Bose assures that the speakers will remain functional. Standalone SoundTouch speakers with Bluetooth and Aux connections will still work, and home theater products will connect via HDMI or optical connections. While SoundTouch streaming will be discontinued, features like AirPlay and Spotify Connect will remain operational.
The company has provided ample notice, first announcing the server shutdown in October 2025 and extending the timeline to May 2026. After this date, the app will be updated to a version that no longer relies on cloud services.
In practical terms, Bose explains:
"With this version of the app, you will be able to control any system that is on the same Wi-Fi network as your phone. You will still be able to set up, configure, remotely control, and group systems through the app. However, browsing music services and initiating content from within the SoundTouch app will no longer function. Instead, you may download your favorite music service apps (TuneIn, Pandora, etc.) and send audio to the SoundTouch systems via AirPlay, Bluetooth, or AUX. If you are a Spotify user, stream content to your SoundTouch system using Spotify Connect from within the Spotify app."
This proactive approach by Bose contrasts sharply with other companies. For instance, Sonos faced backlash in 2019 for requiring customers to render their existing speakers unusable to qualify for an upgrade discount, while the complete shutdown of Spotify's Car Thing in 2024 also drew criticism.
As previously noted, consumers should be cautious when purchasing devices tied to a single service or proprietary platform. The experience with Car Thing serves as a reminder that some devices may not last long. However, Bose's message is reassuring.
This initiative not only addresses the concerns of existing SoundTouch owners but also communicates Bose's values to potential smart speaker buyers, showcasing a thoughtful approach to product longevity.
