Over two years after the controversial launch of the Sonos app, which frustrated users and ultimately led to the departure of former CEO Patrick Spence, Sonos is continuing its overhaul. A new update for the Android and iOS app brings back a “familiar navigation” that many users have longed for.
Tab Navigation: A Welcome Return
CEO Tom Conrad teased these new features a few weeks ago, and now Sonos is rolling them out with app version 87.00.35 for Android and 87.00.36 for iOS. However, the changes won’t automatically appear; users must activate them manually. By toggling a switch in the settings, users will unlock a new tabbed navigation system, reminiscent of the interface used before the major redesign. At the bottom of the app, three buttons labeled “Home,” “System,” and “Search” will now be present, putting to rest the previous controversial approach of aggregating all functions in one overview. This new layout is based on extensive user feedback, according to Conrad.
The company stated, “Many customers requested simpler navigation. Therefore, Sonos has worked closely with beta testers and the community over the past months to align the new features with user needs.” This responsiveness underscores Sonos’ commitment to improving user experiences.
Enhanced User Control: Sorting Players and Volume Management
Another significant update in the app is the new sorting option for displayed players. Users can now rearrange their listed players, giving them more control over how these devices are organized and displayed. Options include sorting by frequency of use or alphabetically. Moreover, users can prioritize currently playing media by having these players appear at the top of the list, with the option to pin specific players if desired.
Sonos has also revamped the volume control feature, initially rolling it out on iOS, with plans for Android users to follow. This aspect now includes +/- buttons and offers a central mechanism that is easier to understand and fine-tune. Users can also sync volume across multiple rooms, simplifying the overall experience.
Opt-in Features for Incremental Updates
With this update, Sonos will introduce a standard opt-in mechanism for new features. This approach allows the company to collect ongoing feedback from users, incorporating real-world usage experiences, and gradually expanding availability based on those insights. This user-centered approach could pave the way for further enhancements, keeping users at the forefront of Sonos’s development cycles.
In summary, the return of tab navigation and the ability to sort players and manage volume effectively reflect Sonos’s commitment to listening to its user base. By prioritizing the needs and preferences of its customers, Sonos not only mitigates the backlash from its previous app redesign but also sets the stage for a more user-friendly experience moving forward. As users engage with these updates, their feedback will undoubtedly shape the future of Sonos’s app enhancements.
