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craigskiAnswer
Local Superstar
July 26, 2023

https://support.sonos.com/en-gb/article/release-notes-for-sonos-s2

  • We’ve removed the ability to control the Sonos app for iOS using lock screen controls and device hardware buttons. The way these features were architected do not meet Apple’s experience guidelines for developers and no longer offer a reliable control experience.
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Airgetlam
Airgetlam
July 29, 2023

I’m sure Sonos is just as unhappy about this as we are. I cant imagine anyone there is excited about losing access to features people use. But it does seem fairly clear from the way the release notes were written that this is being forced on them. 

Bruce
    StevenFang
    Avid Contributor I
    July 30, 2023

    Updated my app/system to 16.5 now I can’t control the volume on my iPhone. Infuriating 

    any help would be appreciated 

     

    It is a nice feature to have as I use it also instead of TV remote. I think right now, it is just removed from IOS seem not for this period. I wonder what this updates have improve on the sound quality ? 

    AjTrek1
    AjTrek1
    July 30, 2023

    Here’s a keyword that is part of Apple’s Commitment to it’s customers: SECURITY.

    From Apple’s point of view it’s devices aren’t locked (secured) if an instaslled 3rd party app allows the user access to it (the 3rd party app) via the lock screen. To Apple that’s a potential vulnerability that could be exploited to gain access to a customers device if it somehow wound up in the hands of someone other than the owner.

    Also, there’s the possibility of reverse engineering to re-write the code of a 3rd party app that has access via the lock screen for other nefarious explotations. Apple would rather Sonos users be upset than face a potential lawsuit for failing to secure the devices it sells as promised when behind a lock screen and not powered down.

    Example:

    TSA approved locks for luggage can still be opened by a TSA agent for just cause. So it turns out that the money you spent to secure your luggage with a lock isn’t really locked after all. Except to us noobs 😂

    Together Everyone Achieves More = T.E.A.M.
    buzz
    buzz
    Grand Maestro
    July 30, 2023

    Basically, it was a SONOS hack that enabled the SONOS controller to use the Lock Screen. I’m sure that, as the innards of iOS changed, the hack needed to be adjusted. I can imagine that it became or will soon become impractical to continue with the hack. 

      jlsineaston
      Contributor I
      July 30, 2023

      Then make it a better user interface.  Larger size, maybe arrow up/down on the app. I’m already annoyed with the lack of functionality of this app. It’s the only app I have connected to external hardware that loses its connection where I have restart the router.  Ring hardware, never had this, Wyler plugins, never.  Spend some money and invest in quality product design and testing. 

      I agree! If we can’t have our easy-to-use volume buttons, then please Improve the dang functionality of the S2 app. It could use a top to bottom reorganization and optimization of its interface. I can adjust the comfort settings of our HVAC system more efficiently than I can control my music. Yes, you bet I’m embarrassed to be kvetching about this while there are so many monumental issues that our world needs to address, but please, at least we can cobble together a fix for this little fiasco. 

        AjTrek1
        AjTrek1
        July 30, 2023

        Basically, it was a SONOS hack that enabled the SONOS controller to use the Lock Screen. I’m sure that, as the innards of iOS changed, the hack needed to be adjusted. I can imagine that it became or will soon become impractical to continue with the hack. 

        It appears you verified my thoughts regarding Apple security for the iPhone; hack or not. 🙂

        Together Everyone Achieves More = T.E.A.M.
        Gymowner10
        Lyricist II
        July 30, 2023

        If they remove existing features weather by choose or forced by apple they should be coming to the table with valid workarounds like a remote.

         

        telling us to use AirPlay or Spotify connect defeats the purpose of the Spotify app.

        ontop of the fact that AirPlay and Spotify connect are glitchy when using multiple speakers

         

        benefit of the app allows for near seamless use of each service, Spotify, apple, SoundCloud.

        AZTEKCA
        Lyricist I
        July 30, 2023

        Updated my app/system to 16.5 now I can’t control the volume on my iPhone. Infuriating 

        any help would be appreciated 

        Yup I wish it would tell you the update in details I should have came here now I’m pissed that my volume controls are even worse now

          Dirk 1406
          Lyricist I
          July 31, 2023

          How come it does work when I play it from directly from the Spotify app and select my Sonos equipment as resource? Does Apple accept the feauture being used from other apps? I think this is strange. 

          Because Spotify is actually a mobile device ‘audio player’, whereas the Sonos App doesn’t play anything, it’s merely a remote (control) for their speakers, which play direct from the source… so if using a player / airplay on your mobile and playing through the mobile you can use the lock-screen controls. Otherwise it’s probably best to use a Home Screen ‘widget’ as mentioned earlier, which does not need the iOS mobile to be unlocked.

          The IKEA app still uses the side buttons to control the volume. I rest my case...

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