I’d rather that they just add proper tunneling between RoonCore and RoonBridge. They could then make a RoonBridge (RAAT Server) for multiple platforms, such as Android, iOS, MacOS, Windows, etc… Then ANY end-point device can be played using the regular Roon application.
Having a separate app for mobile with different features and interface is needlessly complicated and annoying. I’d even be fine with RoonBridge requiring a Roon subscription to use if it managed the tunnel keys and authentication. This would make a seamless experience and also could be justified because there should be something paying for the infrastructure use and also this would basically add millions of new “Roon Ready” devices to the Roon eco-system.
Before arc was released I set up a L2 VPN with some help from people on the forum.
This ‘sort of’ allowed roon to work over a VPN, but as @Suedkiez says RAAT was designed to work well over a lan - and there were timing and reliability issues over a wan.
I’ve changed the title of this feature request to better focus it on the problem of being able to have secure Roon playback using inexpensive mobile or desktop devices.
I now understand why people are still trying to use RoonARC (although I don’t because of a multitude of issues for me with it) and don’t see it needing to be replaced. I hope that it improves and fills the need for people that need offline music or music over unreliable or high jitter networks.
However, I still think there is a need for a secure tunnel between inexpensive mobile and desktop devices to enable existing hi-fi and bluetooth speakers to connect to your Roon library. This would allow a seamless Roon experience on more existing systems for people and help to drive people to the Roon platform quickly, potentially massively quickly. Roon Bridges should be able to be managed through the Roon app and use 2FA authentication with your Roon account and connect using TLS.
I now many people that collect music and want the simplicity of a streaming app but with the music management ease of iTunes/iPod, and the ability to play on their existing equipment. Roon Bridge on android, iOS, Apple OS, and Windows would serve that need well. I think many people would have no problem paying a small monthly/yearly fee to be able to use their existing equipment but gain the Roon library experience. Harmon could even make a simple WiFi to Bluetooth+RCA “brick” that could be managed through the Roon app and sold for around $99.