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185 'Sonos' stories October 2013 - September 2015
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Apple Music ‘adding features and cleaning up’ service this year, says iTunes Intl. VP

Avatar for Zac Hall Sep 3 2015 - 12:56 pm PT
12 Comments

While Apple Music’s content library may be plenty, there’s undoubtedly issues with the software behind it as the product is new and faces the hurdle of integration with lots of legacy iTunes cruft. Some may find that okay during the start of the three-month free trial period, but Apple’s streaming music service will have to shape up and quick if it wants to compete with Spotify and others in the same space. Oliver Schusser, iTunes International VP, tells The Guardian that Apple is currently working to clean up and improve the overall product:

“There’s a lot of work going into making the product better. Our focus is on editorial and playlists, and obviously we have teams all around the world working on that, but we’re also adding features and cleaning up certain things,” Oliver Schusser, vice president, iTunes International, told the Guardian.

Schusser is likely referring to improvements coming to the Music app in iOS 9, which Apple is expected to preview again next week and release later this month ahead of the iPhone 6S, but the exec also mentioned the upcoming Android version, Apple Music Connect, and Sonos support.
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Yamaha announces MusicCast Wi-Fi multi-room audio system, supports Apple Lossless + FLAC formats

Avatar for Ben Lovejoy Aug 20 2015 - 7:26 am PT
5 Comments

If you want a Wi-Fi-based multi-room audio system, you so far haven’t had many alternatives to the market leader, Sonos. Other manufacturers offer their own solutions, but generally only in a handful of products. That looks set to change as Yamaha today announced that its MusicCast system will be supported by more than 20 products, with pricing starting from $250. That includes all but one of its 2015 receivers, reports CNET.

Unlike Sonos, MusicCast supports five different lossless audio formats, including Apple Lossless, FLAC and WAV. It’s controlled by an iOS app, which can stream both your own music library and services like Spotify, Pandora and Rhapsody. Support for Apple Music seems likely further down the road … 
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Everything you hate about Apple Music & what needs improving before converting switchers

Avatar for Jordan Kahn Jul 2 2015 - 1:16 pm PT
170 Comments
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Many have praised Apple Music’s launch this week, although the focus has largely been on the free component of the service, a 24/7 streaming radio station called Beats 1. But how are users reacting to the rest of the Apple Music service? It received a lot of positive reviews in the media, but users have noticed some user experience issues and technical hiccups with Apple Music that might keep them from making a switch from the competition when the service’s free three month trial is up. Since the issues aren’t getting a lot of attention from the main stream media, I wanted to share everything we hate about Apple Music so far and what Apple needs to fix before converting potential switchers:
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Apple Music will be available on Sonos speakers by end of the year

Avatar for Benjamin Mayo Jun 28 2015 - 7:14 am PT
22 Comments
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Update: Apple has confirmed in a statement to Buzzfeed that Apple is working with Sonos to get Apple Music available on the connected speaker system by the end of the year. Original story below.

Apple Music senior director Ian Rogers — ex Beats Music CEO — has announced on Twitter that integration with Sonos for Apple Music is coming as soon as possible. Although Beats Music did have native support on the popular internet-connected speaker system, there have been no announcements about a partnership with Apple Music so far. In the tweet, Rogers confirms that there will be no Sonos integration at launch.


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Beats almost had a Sonos killer built before Apple bought them and killed it

Avatar for Chance Miller Jun 12 2015 - 5:09 pm PT
35 Comments
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According to a new report from Variety, Beats was developing a line of Sonos-like speakers before it was acquired by Apple. When the Apple acquisition occurred, development of the connected speakers was stopped, according to the report. Some of the engineers that were working on the project were moved to other teams, while others have since left the company.

The line of speakers that Beats had planned was originally slated to launch before the 2014 holiday season. While the company already offers several Bluetooth-based speakers, the company wanted to develop a new line that combined Bluetooth, WiFi, and NFC technologies to allow for more seamless playback. Beats was planning a large, living room speaker that was reportedly going to be priced at around $750, as well as several smaller, more affordable options.


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Sonos Controller app updated w/ quick Rooms access, new iPad UI, improved search, more

Avatar for Jordan Kahn Mar 3 2015 - 7:57 am PT
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Sonos is today rolling out version 5.3 of its Sonos Controller app for iOS to introduce a few new features and a tweaked user interface. 

The feature being highlighted above others in the update is easier access to controlling the app’s Rooms feature: Effortlessly move your music around your home with a more accessible ROOMS menu available by tapping the top of any screen in the Sonos app. Group and ungroup rooms from the ROOMS menu to play music in perfect synchrony throughout your home.

Also new in the update is an updated user experience for iPad users that offers new, separate views for currently playing music and discovery features:

  • More engaging browse experience for tablets. Version 5.3 provides separate views for music discovery and what’s currently playing.
  • Last browsed on a phone or tablet. Quickly return to the last place you browsed.
    • Touch to view the last place you browsed. On your phone, you can also go back to the last place you browsed by swiping down on the Now Playing screen.
    • Touch the collapsed Now Playing screen at the bottom of the screen to return to full-screen view.

Sonos highlighted a few other new features including more readily available search and a new playback progress slider.

The updated app, version 5.3, is available on the App Store now.

What’s New in Version 5.3

SIMPLER ROOM CONTROL AND FASTER ACCESS TO ALL YOUR MUSIC.

Effortlessly move your music around your home with a more accessible Rooms menu available by tapping the top of any screen in the Sonos app.

A more engaging browse experience for tablets with dedicated screens for what’s playing and music discovery.

Simplified track progression bar, just below the album art in the Now playing screen. Drag it to whatever point in the song you want to play. This is only applicable for music sources that allow this.

Switch between screens by swiping down from the Now Playing screen to go back to browsing your music. Then swipe from far left to right to show all your music sources.

Search is now more readily available so you can quickly find and play music.

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Sonos Controller app updated for iOS 8 & iPhone 6/Plus, Sonos Boost support

Avatar for Jordan Kahn Oct 14 2014 - 8:43 am PT
2 Comments

Sonos today updated its Controller app for iPhone and iPad bringing full support for iOS 8 and optimizations for the new larger iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. The app, which offers control of wi-fi connected Sonos audio hardware, also now supports the company’s new Sonos Boost enterprise-grade wi-fi extender accessory:

This update includes support for SONOS BOOST, an accessory that provides enterprise-grade wireless performance for your Sonos system so you get unparalleled reliability – even in homes that are known to have wireless connectivity problems.

Announced earlier this year, the Sonos Boost accessory is available starting today from the Sonos website and other retailers. The Boost will sell for $99 USD, slightly higher than the similar but less powerful $49 Sonos Bridge the company previously offered. “Similar to the BRIDGE ($49 USD), BOOST connects directly to your router to create a dedicated network, allowing all your Sonos speakers and components to talk to each other, with up to 50% greater wireless range.”

Version 5.1.1 of the Sonos Controller app for iOS is available on the App Store now.

What’s New in Version 5.1.1

SUPPORT FOR SONOS BOOST
This update includes support for SONOS BOOST, an accessory that provides enterprise-grade wireless performance for your Sonos system so you get unparalleled reliability – even in homes that are known to have wireless connectivity problems.

SUPPORT FOR NEW APPLE DEVICES AND OPERATING SYSTEMS
This update includes support for iOS 8, including support for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.

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9to5Toys Last Call: free Amazon credit w/ Sonos, Netatmo iOS weather station $150, Seiki 39″ 4K $400, more

Avatar for Jun 2 2014 - 3:00 pm PT
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Be sure to follow 9to5Toys to keep up with the best gear and deals on the web: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+ and Safari push notifications.

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Get a $50 Amazon credit and 6 months of Google Play w/ a Sonos PLAY:3 or PLAY:5

Netatmo Weather Station for iOS and Android Devices $150 shipped (Reg. $179)

Seiki 39-inch 4K Class Ultra HDTV w/ HDMI: $400 shipped (Reg. $700)


Other new deals:

  • New! Bluetooth Speakers: Sony Portable NFC system: $98 shipped (Reg. $150), more
  • New! Games/Apps: Diablo 3 $20, up to 66% off Batman Arkham (Mac), iOS freebies, more
  • New! LifeProof frē water/shock proof case cover for iPad Air: $66 shipped (Reg. $110)
  • New! iPad Deals: iPad Air 64GB WiFi $580 (Reg. $699), free $50 gift card w/ iPad Air, more
  • New! Up to 30% off MacPaw apps: Gemini, Hider 2, CleanMyMac, more
  • New! Printers: Canon Portable w/ AirPrint $75 (Reg. $100), HP All-in-One $230 (Reg. $300)
  • New! Daily Deals: Beats by Dre Solo Headphones: $80, Pioneer 4K Receiver: $250, more
  • New! More than 50% off select ‘Scroogled’ apparel


More deals still alive:

New products/useful info:

Giveaways presented by SlickWraps: Apple TV, $100 iTunes gift card, $50 SlickWraps gift card, more

The above contest is now over, congratulations to our winners: @Jemarch86, @austinkeith and @robertburnspr – stay tuned for more great giveaways…

Microsoft/Google/Android:

Sonos releases redesigned iPhone & iPad apps w/ universal search & more

Avatar for Jordan Kahn May 13 2014 - 6:28 am PT
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First launched a couple months back as a beta for Android users, Sonos today announced that its redesigned mobile app for iPhone and iPad users is now available. On top of a streamlined interface with a darker color palette (pictured above), the app also introduces a new universal search feature and much more:
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9to5Toys Last Call: Up to 50% off Kingston SSDs, Free Super Bowl music, PNY 128GB USB3 flash drive $57, more

Avatar for Feb 3 2014 - 10:20 am PT
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Be sure to follow 9to5Toys to keep up with the best gear and deals on the web: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+ and subscribe to the new Safari push notifications feature.

Today’s can’t miss deals: 

Computer Components & Peripherals:

Free and discounted music from Super Bowl Halftime performers on Google Play

PNY 128GB USB 3.0 flash drive: $57 shipped (Reg. $100)


Other great deals from today:

More great deals still alive:

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9to5Toys Cyber Monday: ZAGG 50% off, Logitech UE BT speakers, Belkin Lightning dock $18, Adobe Lightroom $70, MacBook Airs, more

Avatar for Dec 2 2013 - 9:48 am PT
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[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXca4WcCzlo]

Take a few moments out of your Cyber Monday to cash in on some terrific deals! Be sure to follow 9to5Toys to keep up with the best gear and deals on the web: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+

Update: Pad and Quill is taking: 20% off iPhone cases,  25% off MacBook cases for 9to5 readers

Update2: Adobe Lightroom: under $70 shipped.

Today’s can’t miss deals:

ZAGG Cyber Monday: 20% off tablet keyboards, 50% off everything else (InvisibleSHIELD, Lightning cables, more)

Belkin Charge and Sync Lightning dock w/ built-in USB cable $17.50 (Reg. $35)

Apple MacBook Air 11.6″ $870 shipped (Reg. $1,060), MacBook Pros $100-$200 off

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 5 for Mac/PC or Photoshop/Premiere Elements: $70 shipped

 

SanDisk MicroSD Cards: 16GB: $10 (50% off), 32GB: $17 (76% off), 64GB: $35 (65% off)

The best Cyber Monday tech deals from around the web

Other great deals from today:

The best deals that are still alive:

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9to5Toys Last Call: Just-Mobile iPhone stand giveaway, Mophie Helium case $35, Infinity Blade Free, iPad Air $429, Sonos free bridge/credit, more

Avatar for Nov 25 2013 - 10:00 am PT
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Be sure to follow 9to5Toys to keep up with the best gear and deals on the web: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Giveaway: Just-Mobile AluCup aluminum iPhone stand ($30 value)

Mophie Juice Pack Helium Protective Charging Case Refurb. for iPhone 5/5S $35 shipped (Reg. $99)

App/Game Deals:

  • Infinity Blade for iOS goes free ($5.99 savings)
  • Xbox One & PS4 titles: $49, Oxford Dictionary and Thesaurus free, more

iPad Deals:

Get a free Sonos bridge ($49 value) and up to $40 Amazon credit w/ a Sonos Play wireless speaker


Other great deals from today:

The best deals that are still alive:

Black Friday:

New product announcements & reviews:

  • Xbox One midnight launch info, reviews from around the web
  • PlayStation 4 launches tonight at midnight, reviews from around the web
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9to5Toys Last Call: Staples eGift cards 20% off, COD: Ghosts $45, Lady Gaga ARTPOP iTunes FREE stream, more

Avatar for Nov 5 2013 - 10:03 am PT
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Be sure to follow 9to5Toys to keep up with the best gear and deals on the web: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+.

Today’s can’t miss deals:


Staples $50 eGift card for $40: Save on gadgets, tech accessories, office supplies, more


Call of Duty: Ghosts $45,76% off Rockstar games incl. GTA, Max Payne: starting at $3, iOS freebies, more

Synology unleashes its most affordable 2-bay NAS ever, the DS214se for $160

Other great deals from today:

The best deals that are still alive:

Mac software bundles:

New product announcements & reviews:

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Review: Sonos Play:1 Wi-Fi system is a fantastic and affordable audio solution

Avatar for Sarah Guarino Nov 2 2013 - 11:00 am PT
11 Comments

Update: Setting up the Sonos Play:1 is now easier due to the fact that the Bridge is no longer required.

The Sonos® Play:1 is a wireless audio system that uses your WiFi network to transmit audio to high-quality portable speakers. The Santa Barbara-based company has been producing audio components since 2002, and their new Play:1 demonstrates their experience in the industry. The Play:1 is very compact at only 6.36 by 4.69 inches, but it produces a refined but powerful signal.


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9to5Toys Last Call: iPad Air $479, uNu iPhone 5/5s MFi battery case $45, Nintendo 3DS XL $170, Canon T3 DSLR, more

Avatar for Nov 1 2013 - 10:00 am PT
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Be sure to follow 9to5Toys to keep up with the best gear and deals on the web: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+.

Today’s can’t miss deals:

16GB iPad Air $479 shipped, iPad 2 64GB Wifi + 3G unlocked: $400 shipped

uNu iPhone 5/5s MFi 2,300mAh battery case $45, iPhone 4/4s $30

Game/App Deals: Nintendo 3DS XL $170, Paper Mario $8, iOS freebies, more


Other great deals from today:

The best deals that are still alive:

Mac software bundles:

  • The SuperStacked Mac Bundle: Over $3,000 Worth Of Premium Developer & Designer Tools – $49 today, but price increases everyday it’s on sale.

New product announcements & reviews:

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9to5Toys Last Call: Free Sonos bridge w/ Play speaker, Angry Birds Go!, Lenmar iPhone 5 battery case $40, more

Avatar for Oct 15 2013 - 3:00 pm PT
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Be sure to follow 9to5Toys to keep up with the best gear and deals on the web: Twitter, RSS Feed, Facebook, Google+.

Today’s can’t miss deals:

Get a free Sonos wireless bridge ($49 value) w/ the purchase of any Sonos Play wireless streaming speaker

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xP12tpJrl8&w=640&h=480]

Game/App Deals: Andry Birds Go! gameplay trailer, Dictionary.com Premium: $2, iOS freebies, more

Lenmar Meridian 2300mAh Apple certified battery case for iPhone 5/5s: $40 (Reg. $80)

Other great deals from today:

The best deals that are still alive:

Mac software bundles:

  • The SuperStacked Mac Bundle: Over $3,000 Worth Of Premium Developer & Designer Tools – $40 today, but price increases everyday it’s on sale.
  • Design Bundler #2 with Premium Photoshop Layer Styles and 4 other Mac apps – Name your own price (ends in 1 day)
  • The Mac Freebie Bundle 2.0: 10 Apps To Enhance Your Design, Photography & Productivity

New product announcements & reviews:

  • Synology introduces new, faster SOHO NAS w/ hot-swappable drives for $330
  • LaCie’s new Porsche designed USB 3.0 key drive available now
  • OtterBox begins shipping new Commuter Series Wallet case for iPhone 5/5s and Galaxy S4