What is AirPlay 2?
AirPlay 2 is an Apple proprietary streaming protocol. It allows its users to stream music and multimedia content (especially video) from one device to another. Reserved for Apple products (iPhone, iPad and Mac), the AirPlay 2 protocol has been extending its compatibility to various third-party products for several years, thus enriching its multimedia ecosystem.
The AirPlay 2 wireless audio protocol streams audio files with CD-like quality . Its sampling is in fact limited to 16 bits 44 kHz. All higher quality audio formats (Hi-Res files i.e. 24 bits / 192 kHz) will then be automatically converted to 16 bits 44 kHz format.
The Benefits of AirPlay 2 for Audio
- A multiroom function: The AirPlay 2 protocol includes a multiroom function. This allows you to stream the same content to multiple devices in sync or different music in multiple rooms at once. Be careful though, only 3 Apple devices are compatible for simultaneous management of several zones . These are HomePod, HomePod mini and Apple TV
- Integration of voice commands: Thanks to its compatibility with Siri , Apple's voice assistant, it is possible to control the broadcast of its multimedia content using the voice commands of its devices. Just ask Siri what you want to stream and on which device.
- Extremely simple control: AirPlay 2's user-friendly interface makes it easy to adjust volume, pause, skip tracks, and even choose which device to stream to, all from one centralized space . The simplicity of the connection and streaming process translates into just a few clicks or gestures
- Multi-brand compatibility: The AirPlay 2 streaming protocol has the big advantage of making multiroom possible on devices from different brands . You will therefore be able to broadcast simultaneously or different music on products of a different nature. An ideal option if you want a unique and personalized sound environment.
What are the prerequisites to enjoy AirPlay 2?
To use AirPlay 2, make sure your device is AirPlay 2 compatible. All recent iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs and Mac computers are compatible . Please note, on some older devices, only Air Play 1 is supported (this protocol does not allow streaming to multiple devices simultaneously). Then simply connect your devices to the same Wi-Fi network, choose the content to stream and choose the destination device.
Is Air Play 2 technology compatible with Octavio products?
Whether it is Octavio Stream , Octavio Amp , or our Octavio Maestro speaker, all Octavio products are AirPlay 2 compatible. Be careful however, the Octavio Stream 2021 (currently no longer sold) are not AirPlay 2 compatible.
How to use AirPlay 2 with an Octavio device?
From a MAC
From a MAC computer, you can access the list of AirPlay 2 compatible devices using the top menu bar. All you have to do is click on the speaker icon present in the menu bar, an option that becomes available as soon as you use macOS. Then select the Octavio device you want to stream to. Except Octavio Stream 2021, all Octavio devices are AirPlay 2 compatible.
From an iPhone or iPad
From an iPhone or iPad, AirPlay 2 is directly accessible from the iOS dashboard. You can access this dashboard without even having to unlock your device. Click the icon and then select the Octavio device you want to stream to.
From Apple Music or iTunes
From Apple Music on macOS, you can enjoy both your subscription streaming service and your music library stored directly on your computer. Click the icon and then select the Octavio device you want to stream to.
