User guide

Table 3-2 summarizes how to handle audio interruptions according to technology. The rest of this chapter

provides details.

Table 3-2 Audio interruption handling techniques according to audio technology

How interruptions workAudio technology

The AVAudioPlayer and AVAudioRecorder classes provide delegate

methods for interruption start and end. Implement these methods to

update your user interface and optionally, after interruption ends, to

resume paused playback. The system automatically pauses playback or

recording upon interruption and reactivates your audio session when

you resume playback or recording.

If you want to save and restore the playback position between app

launches, save the playback position on interruption as well as on app

quit.

AV Foundation framework

These technologies put your app in control of handling interruptions.

You are responsible for saving playback or recording position and for

reactivating your audio session after interruption ends.

Audio Queue Services, I/O

audio unit

When using OpenAL for playback, register for the appropriate

NSNotification notifications—as when using Audio Queue Services.

However, the delegate must additionally manage the OpenAL context.

See OpenAL and Audio Interruptions (page 29).

OpenAL

Sounds played using System Sound Services go silent when an

interruption starts. They can automatically be used again if the

interruption ends. Apps cannot influence the interruption behavior for

sounds that use this playback technology.

System Sound Services

Handling Interruptions From Siri

When your app is interrupted during playback by Siri, you must keep track of any remote control commands

issued by Siri while the audio session is interrupted. During the interrupted state, keep track of any commands

issued by Siri and respond accordingly when the interruption ends. For example, during the interruption, the

user asks Siri to pause your app’s audio playback. When your app is notified that the interruption has ended,

it should not automatically resume playing. Instead, your app’s UI should indicate that it is in a paused state.

Responding to Interruptions

Audio Interruption Handling Techniques