Sennheiser is adding AirPlay 2 and other new features to its $2,500 Ambeo soundbar

Sennheiser introduces a new operating system running on the company’s premium Ambeo soundbar. Known as Ambeo OS, the major firmware update also adds support for new ways of playing audio on the Ambeo. Sennheiser says it now offers AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect in addition to the Chromecast capability the Ambeo originally shipped with.

The company says Ambeo OS also offers a more responsive user experience as it now uses Wi-Fi to connect to Sennheiser’s Smart Control mobile app instead of Bluetooth. The Smart Control app itself has been revamped for both Android and iOS, with new Sound Check and Sound Zones features.

Image: Sennheiser

Sound Check “guides users through three simple steps to find the perfect EQ preset to their liking,” according to Sennheiser, while the Sound Zones option allows you to set different EQ, noise reduction and transparency settings for different locations around the home or choose the office . None of these features are new or unique to Sennheiser, but it’s good to see the company continue to add more functionality to its soundbars and wireless headphones/earbuds.

At $2,500the Ambeo remains one of the most expensive Dolby Atmos soundbars you can buy. However, Sennheiser claims its 13 speakers deliver a three-dimensional listening experience that outperforms the competition – without the need for a dedicated subwoofer.

Both the Ambeo OS and Smart Control app updates should be available starting today.