Prolific fans of Sonos — particularly those who are on the hunt for the latest app updates in hopes of vast improvements — may have noticed a new feature. It’s one that’s definitely cause for excitement, though perhaps not quite in the way some have hoped. A recent update has added the ability to add Bluetooth headphones to a Sonos setup. That’s exciting in its own right because you’ve never been able to use Bluetooth headphones with the Sonos app before. But it’s also an addition that’s directly tied to the announcement of the Sonos Ace headphones.
These headphones, as you’ll recall from our first look at the Sonos Ace, are the first headphones from the company that has only made speakers intended to be stationary. You’ll also recall that the Sonos Ace are more like traditional Bluetooth headphones in that you don’t have to use the Sonos app to use them. This is a good thing, as you can pair them like any other Bluetooth headphones and listen via any app you like. This flexibility makes the Sonos Ace a versatile addition to any audio setup.
However, just like other Bluetooth headphones, you might still want to use them in conjunction with their app. Pairing with the Sonos app gives you access to an EQ, and it’s also how you control active noise cancellation, spatial audio, and head tracking. You’ll also be able to toggle the wear sensors, which detect if they’re on your head, and pair with a second device via Bluetooth Multipoint. Additionally, you’ll be able to see the precise battery level, which is always useful.
There’s some understandable confusion, though. The way the option looks in the settings menu could lead you to believe that you can add any Bluetooth headphones to the app. But for now, it’s just the Sonos Ace. This limitation might be disappointing for users hoping to integrate their existing Bluetooth headphones into the Sonos ecosystem, but it’s a step forward nonetheless.
The introduction of the Sonos Ace headphones marks a significant shift for Sonos. Known for its high-quality speakers, the company is now venturing into the world of personal audio. This move is likely to attract a new segment of users who prefer the convenience and versatility of Bluetooth headphones. The Ace headphones promise to deliver the same audio quality that Sonos speakers are known for, but in a more portable format. This new direction suggests that Sonos is keen to diversify its product line and cater to evolving consumer preferences.
This update and the release of the Sonos Ace headphones underscore Sonos’s commitment to staying relevant in a highly competitive market. As more consumers opt for wireless and portable audio solutions, Sonos is ensuring that its offerings keep pace with these trends. The integration of the Ace headphones with the Sonos app enhances the user experience by providing advanced features like EQ adjustments and active noise cancellation controls, which are becoming standard expectations for high-end headphones.
Moreover, the addition of Bluetooth Multipoint support allows users to connect the Ace headphones to multiple devices simultaneously. This is a particularly useful feature for those who switch between devices frequently, such as using a laptop for work and a smartphone for personal use. The ability to see the precise battery level within the app adds a practical touch, ensuring that users are always aware of their headphones’ charge status and can avoid unexpected power drains. These practical features highlight Sonos’s dedication to user-friendly designs.
Despite the excitement around these new features, it’s important to manage expectations. For now, the ability to add Bluetooth headphones to the Sonos app is limited to the Ace headphones. This limitation might be a downside for some, but it’s likely a strategic decision by Sonos to promote their new product. Over time, this exclusivity could change as Sonos expands its product line and updates its software capabilities, potentially opening up the app to support a broader range of Bluetooth headphones.
In summary, the introduction of the Sonos Ace headphones and their integration with the Sonos app represents a significant development for Sonos. This move into the personal audio space, coupled with the advanced features available through the app, demonstrates Sonos’s commitment to innovation and user experience. While the current limitations might be a downside for some, the overall direction indicates a promising future for Sonos in the competitive audio market. The anticipation and curiosity among Sonos fans are well justified, as the company continues to evolve and expand its product offerings. This new chapter for Sonos could very well redefine how users experience their audio devices, blending the stationary and portable into a seamless audio ecosystem.
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