Ultimate Ears adds Google Now and Siri support to Bluetooth speakers

Ultimate Ears has released a software update for its Boom 2 and Megaboom that ensures that the bluetooth speakers can work with the voice assistants from Apple and Google. However, a smartphone or tablet must still be connected to the speakers.

Users can perform the update via the UE app on their smartphone. The Boom 2 and Megaboom can then be operated via Google Now or Siri by pressing the bluetooth button and saying a command. For example, it is possible to call up the next song, choose a different playlist or start an app that is compatible with the speakers.

The voice assistants from Apple and Google are not themselves integrated into the hardware of Ultimate Ears. Voice commands are forwarded to the smartphone or tablet that must be connected to the bluetooth speaker.

Both UE speakers are sealed against water; the advantage of support for Siri and Google Now is therefore that users can leave their smartphone protected at the pool or at the beach. The functionality also makes it possible to control the music without unlocking the smartphone.