Sonos announced a public beta test for new features within its mobile application for iOS and Android. This initiative follows a controversial 2024 app overhaul that led to user complaints regarding bugs and functionality issues. The company states that the beta aims to enhance the user interface and overall experience.
A key change in the beta is the update to navigation animations. Previously, new screens appeared with a bottom-to-top animation, requiring a downward swipe to exit. The new beta introduces a left-to-right animation for new information, allowing users to return to the previous screen by swiping left. This change aligns the app's navigation behavior with standard operating system conventions.
The beta also addresses previous issues with the volume control scrubber. The new design allows users to mute the current speaker or group by tapping the bottom-left volume icon. Tapping the bottom-right volume indicator provides granular control over the volume. This separation of functions aims to prevent accidental volume adjustments when attempting to check system status.
Users interested in testing the new features can opt-in through the app's settings. By navigating to the gear icon in the upper right-hand corner, users will find an option to "Enable Improved Navigation." According to Sonos CEO Tom Conrad, beta features can be toggled on and off throughout the testing period, allowing users to revert to previous settings if needed.
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Sonos has released a public beta for new app features on iOS and Android, aiming to improve user interface and experience after a problematic 2024 app overhaul. These updates introduce changes to navigation animations and volume controls, addressing previous usability issues.