Add Streaming Services to Sonos: A Simple Guide
Expanding Your Sonos Experience with Music Streaming Services
Upon initial setup of your new Sonos player, you likely found the process to be straightforward. The system even provides an option to automatically scan your existing music folders. However, a key feature often overlooked is the ability to integrate a diverse range of music streaming services.
Why Add Streaming Services?
The Sonos system is designed to function with music played directly from your devices or a browser. Utilizing the Sonos app is essential for playback. Adding services like Spotify and Pandora significantly enhances convenience and functionality. Without this capability, the value of the Sonos system would be considerably diminished, limited to only locally stored music.
While a personal music collection is valuable, a vast world of undiscovered music awaits through streaming platforms. It’s important to note that access to many of these services typically requires a paid subscription to be utilized with Sonos.
Registering Your Sonos Device
Before you can add music services, your Sonos device must be registered. This is usually prompted during the initial setup. If you deferred registration, you’ll be limited to Last.fm scrobbling.
Don't worry if you didn't register immediately; it’s easily done at any time. Simply navigate to the "Manage" menu within the Sonos app and select "Check for Software Updates".
Within the mobile app, access the settings by tapping "Settings" and then "Online Updates".
Adding Services via the Desktop Application
Once your device is registered, adding streaming services is a simple process. On the desktop application, you can access service settings through "Manage > Service Settings".
To add a music service, click the "+" button (on Mac) or the "Add" button (on Windows).
Select the desired service from the list and enter your login credentials. Alternatively, you can click the "Add Music Services" button under "Select a Music Source" to achieve the same outcome.
Adding Services via the Mobile Application
The process is similar on mobile devices (iPhone or Android). You can initiate the process by tapping the "Add Music Services" button on the main menu.
Alternatively, navigate to "Settings" and then "My Services".
Both methods will lead you to the "My Services" screen, where you can select "Add Another Account".
You will then be prompted to enter your login information if you already have a subscription. If not, a new browser window will open, guiding you through the account creation process.
If you don't see all available services, use the dropdown menu in the upper-left corner and select "All Services".
The available services are limited by your existing subscriptions. Some, like Spotify, may require a premium subscription for Sonos compatibility. However, with a subscription, you can fully leverage your Sonos player and enjoy your preferred music streaming services.
