If you want better performance, new features, and fewer bugs, knowing how to update Sonos Arc is essential.
The process is usually automatic, but a few settings, app versions, and network issues can prevent it from finishing.
Why Sonos Arc updates matter
Sonos regularly releases software updates for the Sonos Arc and the broader Sonos ecosystem.
These updates can improve audio stability, add compatibility with services such as Spotify Connect or AirPlay 2, and fix issues related to HDMI eARC, Dolby Atmos playback, or voice assistant integration.
Unlike a traditional soundbar that may rely on manual firmware downloads, Sonos Arc is designed to update through the Sonos app over your local network.
That convenience is useful, but it also means your Wi-Fi router, mobile device, and app version can affect the update process.
Before you update Sonos Arc
Take a few minutes to prepare your system so the update can complete without interruption.
- Keep the Sonos Arc powered on and connected to the same network as your controller device.
- Make sure your phone or tablet has the latest Sonos app installed.
- Check that your internet connection is stable.
- Avoid unplugging the Arc, router, or modem during the update.
- If you use a soundbar bundle with Sonos Sub or Sonos Era speakers, ensure all products are online.
If your Arc is part of a larger home theater setup, the update may need to reach every connected Sonos product before the system is fully current.
How to update Sonos Arc in the Sonos app
The most reliable way to update Sonos Arc is through the official Sonos app on iOS or Android.
Update steps in the Sonos app
- Open the Sonos app on your mobile device.
- Tap Settings.
- Go to System.
- Select System Updates or Check for Updates, depending on your app version.
- If an update is available, tap Install or follow the prompts.
During the update, the Arc may become temporarily unavailable.
This is normal.
Keep the app open if possible and wait for the process to finish.
Once complete, the app should confirm that your system is up to date.
Can Sonos Arc update automatically?
Yes.
Sonos can install updates automatically when the system is idle and connected to the internet.
Automatic updates are useful because they reduce the need to check manually.
However, automatic updates can be delayed if:
- The Arc is offline or asleep in a way that blocks communication
- Your router has connectivity problems
- Your phone uses an outdated Sonos app
- The update is waiting for other Sonos components in the system
If you want control over timing, you can usually keep automatic updates enabled while still checking manually before major listening sessions or home theater use.
How to check your current Sonos Arc software version
Before and after updating, it helps to confirm the installed version.
The Sonos app displays the software version for the Arc and the rest of your system.
To check it:
- Open the Sonos app.
- Go to Settings.
- Tap System.
- Open About My System or a similar device information section.
- Review the software version listed for Sonos Arc.
Comparing the displayed version with the latest release notes on the Sonos support site can tell you whether the update installed successfully.
What to do if Sonos Arc will not update
Update failures are usually caused by network, app, or account issues rather than hardware defects.
Start with the simplest fixes first.
1. Restart the app and your devices
Close the Sonos app completely, then reopen it.
If that does not help, restart your phone or tablet, then power cycle the modem and router.
After the network comes back online, try the update again.
2. Confirm Wi-Fi or Ethernet stability
Sonos Arc often performs best on a stable Wi-Fi connection, though it can also be used with Ethernet through compatible setups.
Weak signal strength, mesh network handoff issues, and DHCP conflicts can interrupt updates.
If your home uses a mesh system such as Eero, Google Nest Wifi, or Netgear Orbi, make sure the Arc remains on a consistent connection while updating.
3. Update the Sonos app itself
An outdated app can fail to communicate with current Sonos firmware.
Visit the App Store or Google Play Store and install the newest Sonos app version before retrying the update.
4. Check for other pending product updates
If you own multiple Sonos speakers, the Arc may wait until every device is ready.
Open System Updates and allow the app to finish updates for the entire system.
5. Reboot the Sonos Arc
Unplug the power cable from the Sonos Arc for about 10 seconds, then reconnect it.
Wait until the light behavior indicates it is ready, then check for updates again.
How to reduce update problems in the future
A few routine habits make Sonos software maintenance easier and more predictable.
- Keep the Sonos app updated on every controller device you use.
- Maintain a strong router connection near the home theater area.
- Use a stable Wi-Fi network name and avoid frequent network changes.
- Allow automatic updates if you do not need to control timing manually.
- Review Sonos release notes when troubleshooting audio issues after an update.
For households that rely on the Sonos Arc for TV audio, streaming music, and voice control, consistency matters.
A clean network and current app version usually prevent most update friction.
When to contact Sonos support
If the Arc repeatedly fails to update after you have restarted the app, router, and speaker, the issue may require account review or deeper network diagnostics.
Contact Sonos Support if you see persistent error messages, the system becomes unresponsive, or the software version does not change after multiple attempts.
Before reaching out, note your Sonos app version, Arc serial number, current software version, router model, and whether your system uses Sonos Sub, surrounds, or a mesh Wi-Fi setup.
Those details help support agents diagnose the problem faster.
Frequently asked questions about Sonos Arc updates
Do I need to update Sonos Arc manually?
Not always.
Sonos Arc can update automatically, but manual checks are useful if you want the latest fixes right away or if something seems wrong with the system.
Will updating Sonos Arc erase my settings?
No.
Standard Sonos firmware updates do not remove speaker setup, room naming, music service connections, or Trueplay tuning profiles.
Can I use the Arc while it is updating?
Usually, audio playback is paused during the update.
It is best to wait until the app confirms the process is complete.
Why does the update take so long?
Update time depends on network speed, system complexity, and whether multiple Sonos products need to update together.
Larger systems naturally take longer.