Sonos Brings Lock Screen Controls Back to iPhone
Sonos reintroduces lock screen controls via Apple's Live Activities, allowing users to adjust volume and switch songs without fully unlocking their iPhone.
The update
Sonos has released an app update that brings speaker controls to the iPhone lock screen through Apple’s Live Activities system. Once enabled, users can monitor what’s playing and adjust volume or switch songs after unlocking their device via Face ID or passcode. The live activity automatically disappears 15 minutes after playback stops. The feature works in CarPlay and on Apple Watch, though controls aren’t supported on those platforms yet.
Why it matters
This is a return of functionality that Sonos users previously had from 2016 until 2023, when it was removed due to Apple’s updated design framework. After a controversial app redesign in 2024 that removed many features, Sonos has been working to restore core functionality. The company describes this Live Activities integration as a “much requested, anticipated and needed feature” that addresses a long-standing user pain point for quick access to speaker controls.
What to watch
Sonos has noted that album art isn’t currently displayed on the lock screen, though the company is exploring “alternative ways to enhance” the experience. While the feature is available on Apple Watch and CarPlay, controls aren’t supported there yet. It remains to be seen if Sonos will expand functionality to these platforms or add more visual elements to the lock screen display.
Sources
- engadget.com — Details about the Live Activities integration and limitations
- theverge.com — Information about the feature rollout and CEO comments
