Does Ultimate Ears Boom 3 support AirPlay?
Does Ultimate Ears Boom 3 support AirPlay?
Best answer: Sorry, but the UE Boom 3 portal speaker doesn't support Apple AirPlay 2. In fact, no Ultimate Ears speakers do at this time. You're still in luck, however. There are similar portable speakers out there that do support Apple's protocol that we recommend.Amazon: Ultimate Ears Boom 3 ($150)Amazon: Libratone Zipp ($300)Amazon: Libratone Zipp Mini ($250)
Why AirPlay is the ultimate tool for most Apple users
If your home is primarily made up of Apple products, including iOS devices, Macs, and Apple TVs, buying an AirPlay-supported speaker might be an unwavering requirement. With AirPlay 2, you can send audio to multiple speakers at once from anywhere in iOS, including in stereo if that's what you want.
With this in mind, if you're in the market for a wireless speaker that's compatible with AirPlay, your choices are currently limited to products on the pricey side like the HomePod, which can set you back around $350, or other pricey non-Apple products.
Hot AirPlay-compatible wireless speakers
We've included the Libratone Zipp and Libratone Zipp Mini here, however, because both are compatible with AirPlay 2 and are cheaper than the HomePod. Both of these speakers are smart and sexy and will look good in any home.
Take your time and find a color and size to your liking since each has been designed to give you many years of enjoyment. Both also feature Amazon Alexa compatibility and over 10 hours of enjoyment between charges.
No AirPlay support, but ...
The Boom 3 won't let you play music through AirPlay 2, but it can play some tunes through Apple Music. You can set up a playlist and add it via the Ultimate Ears app. Then, all you have to do is hit the button on the Boom 3 and you'll hear some of your favorite songs.
Apple AirPlay's most important feature is its ability to connect various speakers at the same time to give you a multi-room experience. Although the Boom 3 doesn't support this, it does include Ultimate Ears' PartyUp technology. With PartyUp, you can pair up to 150 Boom and Megaboom speakers for one awesome musical experience.
In other words, if you already own one or more wireless speaker from Ultimate Ears, your best bet might be to buy a Boom 3 and not worry about not having AirPlay support. Otherwise, check out the two alternatives.
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Our pick
A little bit pricey, but worth it.
The Libratone ZIPP is one of the best wireless speakers around. Thanks to AirPlay integration, it's even better since you can connect multiple devices at the same time. Available in breathtaking colors like Deep Lagoon, Victory Red, and Nordic Black, the Libratone ZIPP is definitely a conversation starter in any room or outside. Yes, it's more expensive than the BOOM 3, but sometimes you can snag one on sale.
Another worthy choice
A smaller solution
The Libratone Zipp Mini is another impressive solution. It's ideally suited for those who want a smaller speaker footprint.
Still a sweet selection
One of the best around
If you've decided that AirPlay isn't important (at least for now), the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 remains a great choice. Low-cost, yet powerful, it would be a great addition in any home
Bryan M. Wolfe has written about technology for over a decade on various websites, including TechRadar, AppAdvice, and many more. Before this, he worked in the technology field across different industries, including healthcare and education. He’s currently iMore’s lead on all things Mac and macOS, although he also loves covering iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Bryan enjoys watching his favorite sports teams, traveling, and driving around his teenage daughter to her latest stage show, audition, or school event in his spare time. He also keeps busy walking his black and white cocker spaniel, Izzy, and trying new coffees and liquid grapes.