Sonos lets wireless speakers work without a Bridge over home network

Sonos has made it possible to run its wireless speakers directly on users’ home networks, without the previously required Bridge. In addition, the manufacturer will launch a successor to the Bridge in October, the Boost.

Until now, for wireless operation, Sonos speakers must connect to the dedicated SonosNet network via the optional Bridge, which must be connected to the router via a cable. However, Sonos has now rolled out a firmware update for a Station mode, which allows the speakers to connect directly to users’ Wi-Fi networks.

However, when using Sonos speakers and a Playbar for a surround sound system, Station mode is not possible and the speakers cannot act as a repeater over the home network, as is the case with SonosNet. Sonos therefore sees possibilities for the Bridge and will even come up with a variant of that accessory in October: the Boost.

The Boost will cost about 75 euros and should offer a 50 percent better range than the Bridge. According to Sonos, the option for connection via the Bridge or Boost is suitable for people with an unreliable wireless network.