How to Route AirPlay Audio to Multiple Speakers in iOS 18

Apple’s iOS 18 refines AirPlay audio routing, allowing users to stream sound to multiple AirPlay 2-compatible destination speakers simultaneously and manage each output independently. By leveraging the updated Control Center and Now Playing interfaces, iOS 18 enables seamless multi-room audio grouping, individual and master volume controls, and dynamic routing changes directly from an iPhone without interrupting current playback.

Accessing Multi-Speaker Controls

To route audio to multiple speakers, open the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner of your screen, then tap the AirPlay icon located in the Now Playing card. Alternatively, you can tap the AirPlay icon directly from within media apps such as Apple Music, Spotify, or the Lock Screen media widget.

Selecting Multiple Destinations Independently

Unlike standard Bluetooth connections that restrict output to a single endpoint, iOS 18 relies on the AirPlay 2 protocol to discover all available network-connected audio receivers.

  1. Once the AirPlay menu opens, you will see a list of available devices, including HomePods, Apple TVs, and third-party AirPlay 2-enabled speakers.
  2. Instead of radio buttons that force a single choice, each compatible device features a circular selection checkbox.
  3. Tap the circle next to each speaker you want to add to the audio stream.
  4. A checkmark appears as the speaker connects, and audio automatically syncs across all selected hardware using low-latency network buffers.

To remove a speaker, simply tap the checkmark to deselect it. The audio will immediately stop on that device while continuing uninterrupted on all remaining selected speakers.

Independent and Master Volume Management

Once multiple speakers are grouped, iOS 18 provides granular control over sound levels:

  • Master Volume: The primary volume slider in Control Center or using the physical iPhone volume buttons adjusts the output level of all connected speakers proportionally.
  • Individual Sliders: Expanding the AirPlay menu displays a dedicated volume slider beneath each active speaker. This allows you to set lower levels in quiet spaces (like an office or bedroom) while boosting volume in larger living areas, all within a single unified control panel.

Requirements and Device Compatibility

Independent multi-destination routing requires receivers that support AirPlay 2. Standard Bluetooth speakers, traditional AirPlay 1 accessories, and older wireless receivers only support single-stream output and cannot be grouped alongside other speakers in the iOS 18 multi-room interface. All target devices must also be connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the host iPhone.