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Editor’s Comment: Is this thing on?
The audio market in the UK has witnessed significant shifts in recent years, with one of the most notable changes being the surge in popularity of connected audio products. This growing trend reflects broader changes in consumer preferences for convenience, connectivity, and seamless integration with modern smart homes.
Years ago it was all about bulky, wired sound systems that made it look like you were hosting a concert in your living room. But today, consumers are increasingly prioritising high-quality sound that is both flexible and easily accessible – and wireless connected audio systems are taking centre stage. It’s all about streaming your favourite tunes while avoiding the hassle of… well, anything.
One of the most significant factors driving this demand is the general rise of smart home technology. As the UK embraces home automation, smart speakers, sound systems and multi-room setups are becoming an integral part of modern living. In fact, the UK smart speaker market is growing rapidly, with a reported 10.6 million smart speakers in use in 2023, up from 6.8 million in 2020, according to Statista.
And platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music are at the heart of this experience, with Wi-Fi connectivity enabling easy access to vast music libraries without the limitations of traditional formats.
Of course, it’s not just about playing music; these machines listen as well. Voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant allow us to live a relatively hands-free existence! A Statista report from 2023 found that 70 per cent of UK smart speaker owners use voice commands to control their devices, and no doubt that figure is increasing year on year. Who needs a remote – or even a phone! – when you’ve got a speaker that can tell you the weather, order you a pizza, and play your favourite song on demand?
Needless to say, despite the occasional internet instability and buffering frustration, it’s clear that connected audio gadgets are here to stay. For many, they’re more than just a gimmick, they have enabled a new way of life.
And in this issue we’re looking at just some of the options on the market today. Plus we’ve got an exclusive chat with Lithe Audio’s Managing Director, Amit Ravat, about the expanding opportunities for retailers in multi-room ceiling speaker systems, and AWE’s Stuart Tickle explains how professionally integrated systems take the user experience to the next level.
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Jack Cheeseman – Editor – jackcheeseman@ertonline.co.uk
