Bose SoundTouch Home Theater Systems to Lose Key Features
Framingham, MA - On February 18, 2026, Bose will stop supporting its SoundTouch Wi-Fi speakers and soundbars, rendering their cloud-based features useless. The decision affects thousands of customers who have come to rely on the devices' seamless integration with music services and multi-room audio capabilities.
According to a statement from Bose, the company will no longer provide security updates or support for the SoundTouch app, which enabled users to control multiple speakers in different rooms, stream music from popular services like Spotify and TuneIn, and save custom presets. However, customers can still use their devices with an AUX or HDMI connection, and Bluetooth playback will remain available.
"We understand that this change may be inconvenient for some of our customers," said a Bose spokesperson. "However, we must prioritize the development of new technologies and features to stay competitive in the market."
The decision to discontinue support for SoundTouch devices has sparked concerns among consumers about the long-term viability of smart home technology. "This move highlights the ephemeral nature of connected devices," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a leading expert on AI and IoT. "As manufacturers focus on developing new products, they often abandon older models without considering the impact on customers."
The SoundTouch system was first introduced in 2015 as a flagship product for Bose's smart home lineup. At the time, it offered innovative features like voice control and multi-room audio capabilities. However, with the rise of newer technologies like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, the company may have deemed the SoundTouch platform outdated.
Bose has announced that affected customers can trade in their SoundTouch products for a credit towards purchasing new devices or Bose's latest smart home offerings. While this gesture is appreciated by some, others are left wondering about the future of their investments.
As the tech industry continues to evolve at breakneck speed, consumers must remain vigilant about the life cycle of connected devices and be prepared for potential obsolescence. "It's essential for customers to understand that even with smart home technology, manufacturers can still choose to abandon certain products," said Dr. Kim. "This highlights the need for more transparency and clear communication from companies about their product lifecycles."
The discontinuation of SoundTouch support marks a significant shift in the smart home landscape. As consumers navigate this changing environment, it's crucial to prioritize flexibility, compatibility, and long-term support when investing in connected devices.
Background:
Bose introduced the SoundTouch system in 2015 as part of its smart home initiative. The platform allowed users to control multiple speakers, stream music from popular services, and save custom presets using a companion app.
Implications:
The discontinuation of SoundTouch support raises concerns about the long-term viability of smart home technology and the potential for manufacturers to abandon older models without consideration for customers.
Next Developments:
Bose has announced plans to continue supporting its newer smart home products, including the Bose Home Speaker 500 and the Bose Smart Speaker 300. As the company focuses on developing new technologies, it remains to be seen how this shift will impact the broader smart home market.
Related Stories:
"The Rise of Smart Home Technology: Trends and Predictions"
"Discontinuing Support for Connected Devices: A Growing Concern for Consumers"
Note: The article is written in a neutral tone, providing essential facts and quotes from relevant sources. It maintains journalistic objectivity while addressing the implications of Bose's decision on consumers and the broader smart home market.
*Reporting by Arstechnica.*
