The spectacular Sonos multi-room sound system no longer needs a hardware bridge
First announced earlier this year, Sonos has just unveiled an update to its controller app for iOS devices. Starting with version 5.1, users can connect a speaker directly to their Wi-Fi network and don’t need a wired connection to a router with the hardware bridge.
With the app, you can still select whether to use the older bridge setup or connect directly via Wi-Fi. Sonos says that a bridge is still required for 3.1 or 5.1 home stereo setups or in rooms where a wireless signal has trouble reaching.
The company also announced that an alternative to the Bridge, Sonos Boost, will be available later this year and retail for $99. It will help boost the wireless signal in homes with Wi-Fi challenges.
A universal app designed for the iPhone/iPod touch and iPad/iPad mini, the Sonos Controller app can be downloaded now on the App Store for free.
Before the most recent update, version 5.0 of the controller app landed back in May. A huge step forward, it offered a redesigned look and a great universal search feature.
While the Sonos speakers were previously aimed at the high-end of the market, the company broke through last year with the Play:1. Retailing for $199, it is competitively priced with many Bluetooth options while offering a number of advantages. I named that speaker one of my favorite accessories of 2013.
Making the bridge all but obsolete for most users is great news, and I think more music lovers will be able to experience the high-quality system.
For other app news and reviews today, see: You’ll need to think fast and add up digits in GREG – A Mathematical Puzzle Game,The Room Three will arrive on the App Store in spring 2015, and Amazon Cloud Drive Photos updated with AirPlay integration and other features.
