Bose is turning its SoundTouch speakers into 'dumb' devices in February—but for users who bought these $400+ gadgets, the API release might be a balm for bruised wallets.
Bose announced SoundTouch Wi-Fi speakers and soundbars will become 'dumb' devices on February 18, 2025, retaining only AUX/HDMI/Bluetooth connectivity. Post-EoL, devices will lose cloud connectivity, app integration, and features like Spotify sync and multi-device playback. Bose noted:
"On May 6, 2026, the app will update to a version that supports the functions that can operate locally without the cloud."
Remaining functionality includes AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect, with AirPlay 2 enabling multi-device playback. Bose released SoundTouch API documentation for independent developers to create compatible tools, addressing user concerns about device obsolescence.
SoundTouch devices (2013-2015) originally priced between $399 and $1,500. Context: Companies increasingly 'brick' smart devices to focus on new products, sparking debates over e-waste and consumer rights.