Sonos adds quick start presets and opens beta for new voice assistant

Sonos released a software update for its mobile application on Monday.

The patch introduces a new feature called Presets, which allows users to save specific playback configurations. A preset can store a chosen music selection, a set volume level, and a particular room destination. Once created, the preset appears on the app's home screen, enabling listeners to start audio without navigating through multiple menus.

The update also opens registration for the 27voice AI assistant beta for customers in the United States. Sign-ups begin on November 6, with access scheduled to start on November 12. This marks the initial early access testing phase for the new voice interface.

Sonos stated that 27voice will handle standard commands such as starting music, moving playback between rooms, grouping speakers, and setting timers. The company indicated the assistant will also process complex requests phrased in natural language. Examples provided by Sonos include asking the system to play an album with a sardine tin on the cover or to identify the singer at the Super Bowl and play their latest album in the hallway.

These changes are part of the company's effort to recover from a widely criticized app redesign in 2024. Chief Executive Tom Conrad has previously promised to reverse the damage caused by that launch. In September, Sonos released an updated operating system for the app that added the ability to connect AI agents. The company plans to allow users to create up to 10 custom agents.

The current update includes additional interface changes. Users can now swipe on the Now Playing screen or the mini player to skip tracks. The app also provides a method to rearrange favorite items. A new System Health feature is available exclusively for iOS users. This tool is designed to help identify issues in speaker setups before they affect audio playback.