Bose is open-sourcing its old smart speakers instead of bricking them
Source: The Verge
Overview
In a surprisingly user‑friendly move, Bose has announced it will be open‑sourcing the API documentation for its SoundTouch smart speakers, which were slated to lose official support on February 18th, as reported by Ars Technica. Bose has also moved that date back to May 6th, 2026.
When cloud support ends, users typically lose the ability to stream music, control the speaker via the app, or receive firmware updates. By releasing the API, Bose is giving developers the tools to keep these features alive, potentially extending the lifespan of the devices beyond the official support window.
The open‑source documentation is hosted on GitHub, where developers can view the API endpoints, authentication methods, and sample request/response payloads. Bose has also provided a brief guide on how to set up a local server that can act as a proxy, allowing legacy devices to continue functioning with third‑party services.
What This Means for Users
- Extended Device Life: Existing SoundTouch speakers can remain functional even after official support ends.
- Community‑Driven Features: Hobbyists and developers can create new integrations, such as custom voice assistants or smart‑home automations.
- Potential Security Risks: Open APIs can be a target for malicious actors if not properly secured; users should follow Bose’s recommended security practices.
How to Get Started
- Visit the GitHub Repository: Clone the repo containing the API docs and sample code.
- Set Up a Local Proxy: Follow the provided instructions to run a lightweight server on a Raspberry Pi or similar device.
- Update Your Speaker Settings: Point your SoundTouch speaker to the local proxy’s IP address to resume cloud‑based functionality.
Bose’s decision aligns with a broader industry trend of manufacturers providing open APIs for legacy hardware, giving users more control over their devices and fostering a vibrant developer ecosystem.