Bose keeps SoundTouch speakers working despite planned server shutdown

Bose will retire cloud services for its 2013 SoundTouch speakers but will update the app, publish an API, and support local playback options so the hardware remains usable; the server shutdown is scheduled for May 2026.

Bose is ending cloud support for its SoundTouch line, which was introduced in 2013 and has been supported for about 13 years. The company said it can no longer sustain the cloud infrastructure for this older generation of products. Rather than leaving devices unusable, Bose published guidance on using Bluetooth, AirPlay and other local playback methods and released an API for third‑party developers. Bose first announced the shutdown in October 2025 and has delayed the effective date to May 2026. What is known: - The SoundTouch system dates to 2013 and received roughly 13 years of support. - Bose plans to retire the cloud services that support these products, with a server shutdown scheduled for May 2026. - The SoundTouch app will be updated to a version that allows control of systems on the same Wi‑Fi network without relying on the cloud. - In‑app browsing and initiating music from within the SoundTouch app will stop; playback can still be sent via AirPlay, Bluetooth, AUX, and home theater connections such as HDMI or optical, and Spotify Connect should continue to function. - Bose published an API so third‑party app developers can add SoundTouch features to other apps. Summary: The change leaves the physical speakers functional for local use while removing cloud‑dependent features such as in‑app music browsing. Bose has provided an updated app and developer tools, and the shutdown and app transition are scheduled for May 2026. This approach contrasts with some previous device shutdowns that rendered older hardware unusable.