Bose is shutting down cloud services for its SoundTouch speakers in May 2026, but the devices will remain functional via Bluetooth, AirPlay, and AUX, with an API provided for third-party app support, demonstrating a customer-friendly approach to product obsolescence.
Bose is transitioning its SoundTouch speakers to an open source software model after ending cloud support, allowing third-party developers to maintain compatibility and extend the product's life, while extending the end-of-life date to May 6 to accommodate this change.
Bose is discontinuing support for its SoundTouch smart WiFi speakers by February 2026, removing features like online streaming and app control, leaving only Bluetooth and physical connections, which highlights the vulnerability of smart hardware to obsolescence and the ongoing relevance of hardware hacking.
Bose announced that it will stop supporting its SoundTouch Wi-Fi speakers and soundbars from February 18, 2026, rendering cloud-based features and the app non-functional, while continuing basic audio playback via AUX, HDMI, and Bluetooth. Customers can trade in their devices for up to $200, but the move marks the end of support for a product line introduced in 2013, citing technological obsolescence.