Sonos Trueplay explains: This is how you use the measurement system on iPhone and Android

The wireless speakers and soundbars from Sonos have offered the so-called Trueplay function for several years. This is a calibration system that allows the speakers to be optimally integrated into the room.

It measures how the sound is reflected by walls, furniture and other surfaces. The loudspeaker then adapts to the room and thus optimizes the sound.

Other manufacturers also follow this principle, for example Apple’s HomePod measures itself independently in the room. With Sonos, one tool is required for this (with one exception), namely an iPhone.

Together with the Sonos app, this becomes an external microphone. The measurement is carried out at several locations within a room, followed by optimization.

Use Trueplay on iPhone

The implementation is simple. Open the Sonos app on your phone and follow these steps:

• Tap Settings, then System and select the appropriate speaker.
• Tap Trueplay and then Trueplay Tuning. Now follow the instructions on the screen.
• In order to be able to carry out the measurement, you must allow Sonos access to your microphone.

For an optimal measurement, make sure that it is quiet in the respective room and that no extraneous noises disturb you. Also cover the whole room if possible and move around the room with your cell phone. The process takes about three minutes.

Using Trueplay on Android

You want to use Trueplay with your Android phone? This is currently only possible with the new Sonos speakers Era 100 and Era 300 and with the portable speakers Sonos Move and Sonos Roam. They can measure themselves in the respective rooms. An additional mobile phone is therefore not required.

However, the function must first be activated within the app. Proceed as follows:

• Open the Sonos app on your Android phone or iPhone.
• Tap System and then tap the name of the speaker you want to configure.
• Tap on Trueplay and switch to automatic Trueplay for Sonos Roam or Move.
• With Sonos Era 100 and Era 300 you activate the fast tuning.

Note: Automatic Trueplay only works with Roam and Move if the built-in microphone in the speaker is activated. If not, press the microphone button once to activate the microphone.

Advanced tuning

With the Sonos Era 100 and Era 300, the calibration of the speakers can be improved. To do this, an extended tuning must be carried out by hand. However, this option is only available on the iPhone.

If you’re using an Android device, you’ll automatically end up with quick tuning. Advanced tuning works like classic Trueplay. The iPhone is moved through the room and continuously measures the audio signals. You can find the option within the Sonos app:

• Tap on Settings here and select the Era 100 or Era 300.
• Tap Trueplay and then Trueplay Tuning.
• You now have the choice between quick or advanced tuning. Tap on “advanced tuning”.

It is unclear whether Sonos will also bring the extended tuning to Android devices. If you are currently still looking for suitable speakers, we will advise you on the best multi-room systems in our buying guide. We also show you the best smart speakers and explain what to look out for when buying.