By: CE Critic
In a recent announcement, Roon, the renowned music management software recently acquired by Harman Kardon, has unveiled a major update to its mobile app, Roon ARC. This update brings a host of new features and improvements, most notably the integration of voice control with Siri and Google Assistant for CarPlay and Android Auto.
Voice Control Takes the Wheel
Responding to feedback from a user survey, where over 65% of respondents identified Roon ARC as an essential road trip companion, Roon has prioritized features that enhance the in-car listening experience. Voice control, a highly requested feature, now enables users to safely navigate their music libraries, queue up tracks, albums, artists, playlists, and genres, all without taking their hands off the wheel.
The update also introduces new top-level tabs – Browse in Android Auto and Search in CarPlay – for faster access to music. Additionally, voice commands are seamlessly integrated with Roon's powerful search functionality, saving queries in History and Recently Played for later revisiting.
Tailscale: A Workaround for Connectivity Woes
Recognizing the connectivity challenges faced by some users due to restrictive internet and cellular service policies, Roon has partnered with Tailscale to offer a solution. Tailscale, a free and easy-to-use tool, creates private internet connections, effectively bypassing port forwarding issues that hinder ARC's functionality. Roon's Tech Team has published a detailed guide to assist users with setup and troubleshooting.
Enhanced User Interface and Stability
The update also includes an improved UI for Android Auto, with a cleaner and more informative design for easier navigation. Additionally, several bugs have been fixed, including crashes and freezing issues on iOS and Android remote apps, and a problem with loading album details in certain KKBox browser categories.
Roon's Commitment to User-Driven Development
This update underscores Roon's dedication to user feedback and continuous improvement. By prioritizing features requested by the community, Roon aims to deliver a music listening experience that is both immersive and intuitive, whether at home or on the road.
Release Date and Availability
While Roon hasn't announced a specific release date for this update, it is expected to roll out to users gradually in the coming weeks. The update will be available for both iOS and Android devices, ensuring that all Roon ARC users can benefit from these new features and enhancements.
In Summary
The latest Roon ARC update is a significant step forward in enhancing the mobile music listening experience. With the addition of voice control, improved connectivity options, and a more refined user interface, Roon ARC continues to evolve into a powerful and versatile tool for music lovers everywhere. As Roon continues to listen to its users and innovate, the future of Roon ARC looks brighter than ever.
