Millions of AirPlay Devices at Risk: What the AirBorne Flaws Mean for Everyday Users

Ever streamed music from your iPhone to a speaker, or shared vacation photos on your smart TV using AirPlay? If so, you’re not alone-and you might want to pay attention. This week, cybersecurity researchers revealed a set of vulnerabilities, dubbed “AirBorne,” that could let hackers take control of millions of AirPlay-enabled devices, simply by being on the same Wi-Fi network. And while Apple has moved quickly to protect its own products, the story is far from over for countless third-party gadgets in homes and offices everywhere.

How Does the AirBorne Flaw Work?

The issue centers on AirPlay, Apple’s wireless protocol that makes streaming between devices effortless. But according to Oligo Security, flaws in the AirPlay software development kit (SDK)-especially in third-party speakers, TVs, and receivers-could let an attacker on the same Wi-Fi network secretly run their own code on your device. No need for you to click anything or even notice; the attack can happen silently in the background.

What’s even more worrying? Once a hacker compromises one device, the malware can spread to others on the same network-turning your living room into a launchpad for a much bigger attack. In public places like hotels, airports, or offices, the risk multiplies.

Apple Devices Patched, But Third-Party Gadgets Lag Behind

Here’s the good news: Apple has already pushed out updates for iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TVs to fix these vulnerabilities. If you keep your Apple gear up to date, you’re in the clear. But for millions of third-party devices-think Bose speakers, smart TVs, and even car head units with CarPlay-the situation is murkier. Many of these products rarely get updates, and some may never be patched at all.

Oligo’s researchers estimate that tens of millions of devices could remain vulnerable for years. As one expert put it, “When was the last time you updated your speaker?” For most of us, the answer is probably “never.”

What Could Hackers Actually Do?

The potential threats go beyond just hijacking your playlist. A hacker could use a compromised device as a foothold to spy on your network, install ransomware, or even join your gadgets to a botnet-a network of hijacked devices used for further attacks. Some AirPlay-enabled devices have microphones, raising the risk of eavesdropping. In the case of CarPlay, the vulnerabilities are harder to exploit (the attacker would need to pair via Bluetooth or USB), but the risk isn’t zero.

The real danger? These attacks are stealthy and can go completely unnoticed, especially on devices that most people and even IT departments rarely think to secure.

What Should You Do?

• Update your Apple devices as soon as new patches are available.
• Check for updates on your third-party speakers, TVs, or car systems-even if it’s a hassle.
• Avoid using AirPlay on public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks where possible.
• Limit who has access to your home or office Wi-Fi-if someone can get on your network, they might be able to target your devices.

Why This Matters for the Apple Ecosystem

The AirBorne episode is a wake-up call for anyone who’s come to trust Apple’s famously closed and secure ecosystem. When third-party manufacturers use Apple’s technology but don’t keep up with security, everyone is at risk-not just the owners of those devices, but the broader Apple community. As one security expert put it, “If vendors don’t update their products, it could undermine trust in the entire Apple ecosystem.”

Bottom line: While Apple has done its part, the long tail of vulnerable devices means this story is far from over. If you rely on AirPlay in your daily life, now’s the time to check your devices, update what you can, and stay alert. Sometimes, the weakest link isn’t the phone in your pocket-but the speaker on your shelf.