Live Activities Arrive on iOS
Sonos has finally introduced Live Activities support in its iOS app, allowing iPhone users to control playback directly from the lock screen. The company announced the feature in a Reddit post, calling it a much requested, anticipated, and needed addition. The update is now available for download.[S1][S2]
Once you start playing music and lock your iPhone, a Live Activity appears on the lock screen, displaying the current room or group and the song title. Users can control the volume and change tracks, but only after unlocking with Face ID or a passcode. This feature stays active for 15 minutes after playback ends.[S1][S2][S3]
How to Enable and Limitations
The feature is off by default and must be enabled in both the Sonos app preferences and the iOS settings for Sonos. This follows the backlash from the 2024 app redesign, which removed many features. The company has been gradually restoring functionality since then.[S1][S4]
Sonos is considering ways to improve the lock screen experience, including the potential display of album art in Live Activity. While the feature functions in CarPlay and Apple Watch, control functionality is not yet supported on these platforms. Sonos has not provided a timeline or confirmation for the addition of these controls.[S1][S2][S3]
Background and Future Updates
Sonos had lock screen controls in 2016, but they were removed in 2023 due to compatibility issues with Apple's design framework. The company's CEO hinted at Live Activities support in a February interview with Bloomberg. The feature is now available, and Sonos promises more improvements during the iOS 27 lifecycle.[S1][S4][S3]
