Bose will stop updating SoundTouch speakers on Feb. 18, 2026; API released

Bose told SoundTouch customers in an October 2025 email that all SoundTouch speakers will become "dumb" devices on Feb. 18, 2026, when they will stop receiving updates.

Once that date arrives, the speakers will no longer receive updates, including security updates, and will only work via HDMI, Aux, or Bluetooth connections. Bose said playback from services such as AirPlay and Spotify Connect will still be possible, devices that support AirPlay 2 will continue functioning, and a stripped-down SoundTouch app will remain available for setup, basic remote controls (play, pause, skip, volume) and grouping speakers.

Bose has made the SoundTouch API open-source by publishing it in a linked PDF, giving developers the opportunity to build tools and add features. The article notes three caveats: how long it will take developers to adopt the API is unknown, no public repository for the source code has been found, and the PDF includes a fairly lengthy Terms of Use.

Until community projects appear, owners can use Bluetooth, HDMI, Aux, or connect through a streaming amp such as the WiiM Amp Ultra for more functionality, and the outlet advised keeping the physical SoundTouch remote in case the app is later discontinued. The long-term solution depends on someone picking up the open-sourced API, the author said, and the author argued that open-sourcing aging products could help reduce tech waste.

Key Topics

Tech, Bose, Soundtouch, Soundtouch Api, Open Source, Spotify Connect