Sonos to bring back Android widget and iOS lock screen controls

Sonos users have been eagerly awaiting the return of some features — the Android widget and iOS lock screen controls — but it looks like they might have to wait a little longer. Android users have been clamoring for the return of the widget which allowed them to control their music without diving into the app. Meanwhile, iOS users have been frustrated since losing lock screen controls in a 2023 update.

In July 2023, Sonos removed lock screen controls from the iOS app with the update to v15.6. As for Android users, the redesigned version of the app that arrived earlier this year caused the damage. While rolling back to an older version often fixed this issue for Android users, Sonos rolled out an update that restricted users to the newer version of the app.

A Sonos employee (social media manager) has acknowledged these requests on Reddit, but they’ve made it clear that their development team is currently focused on other priorities. While the company recognizes the importance of these features, they’re asking users for patience as they work on stabilizing the app first. This reiterates a recent statement by Sonos to Trusted Reviews that confirmed bringing back iOS lock screen controls wasn’t an immediate priority for the company.

The loss of these controls has been a sore spot for many, especially for those who loved the convenience they provided. Android users miss the ability to adjust the volume and skip tracks right from their home screens, while iOS users are frustrated by the need to unlock their phones every time they want to tweak their Sonos setup.

Sonos has hinted that these features may eventually return, but for now, users will need to make do with the prevailing functionality. It’s clear that the company is aware of the demand, but with their hands full, it could be a while before these much-loved features make a comeback.