Bringing Sonos Controls Back to the Lock Screen
Sonos has officially rolled out an update to its iOS application, introducing support for Apple's Live Activities and the Dynamic Island. This highly anticipated feature restores the ability to manage audio playback directly from the lock screen, a functionality that users have been requesting for some time.
According to a representative from Sonos, the team is enthusiastic about reintroducing this capability through the modern framework of iOS Live Activities, providing a seamless experience for managing speaker groups and volume levels.
How to Enable Live Activities
The feature is not enabled by default. Users who wish to utilize this functionality must activate it manually within the app. To do so, follow these steps:
- Open the Sonos app and navigate to your Account settings.
- Select App Preferences.
- Toggle on Live Activity.
Once active, the Live Activity will appear on your lock screen whenever audio is playing. While basic controls are visible, please note that for security, you will need to authenticate via Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode to interact with the playback buttons. If you wish to hide the interface, it can be dismissed with a simple swipe.
Current Limitations and Future Updates
While the implementation brings essential control back to the lock screen, it is currently in its initial phase. Notable limitations include:
- Lack of Album Art: The feature does not currently display album artwork, though the company notes they are investigating methods to improve the visual experience on the lock screen.
- Watch and CarPlay Support: Although the Live Activity may appear on Apple Watch or CarPlay displays due to system integration, full functional control is not yet supported for these platforms.
Regarding alternative playback methods, Sonos clarified: «You can still use the local playback controls that appear on screen or the Live Activity. You can choose which you prefer to use.»
As iOS continues to evolve, Sonos confirmed that their development teams are already exploring the new capabilities offered by upcoming operating system versions to ensure continued compatibility and improved performance.