Which Streaming Option Is Right for My Business?
Pandora CloudCover gives you several ways to stream music in your business. You can use a CloudBox, a web browser, the Pandora CloudCover mobile app, or a Sonos system. Whichever option you choose, you'll have access to the same Pandora CloudCover music catalog. The difference is primarily which device plays the music and how you want that device to be managed.
You don't need to purchase a CloudBox to use Pandora CloudCover. The best option depends on your setup and how you want music to be managed.
Quick comparison
Player options | Best for | Key benefit |
CloudBox | Most permanent business installations | Dedicated, tamper-resistant playback designed to run unattended |
Web browser | Businesses using an existing computer | Start streaming without additional hardware |
Mobile app | Simple or portable setups | Stream directly from a phone or tablet |
Sonos | Businesses with an existing Sonos system | Stream Pandora CloudCover directly through compatible Sonos products |
Not sure which to choose?
For most permanent business installations, we recommend a CloudBox. It's a dedicated player designed to reliably run in the background without requiring a computer, phone, or employee to manage playback.
CloudBox
The CloudBox is Pandora CloudCover's dedicated streaming player and is the most popular choice for businesses that want a reliable, set-it-and-forget-it installation.
Why choose a CloudBox?
Tamper-resistant: There are no on-device playback controls for employees or customers to make unauthorized changes.
Remote control: Authorized users can manage playback remotely from the Pandora CloudCover web or mobile app.
Keeps playing during temporary internet interruptions: Locally stored music can automatically play if the network connection is interrupted.
Automatic recovery: Playback resumes when the network connection returns, and the CloudBox automatically restarts after a power outage.
Dedicated to your business music: Unlike a computer, phone, or tablet, the device doesn't need to be used for other tasks.
Flexible connectivity: Connect to an amplifier, receiver, powered speakers, or other compatible audio equipment using available audio connections.
Ethernet or Wi-Fi: Connect the CloudBox to your business network using either a wired or wireless connection.
Best for: Businesses that want dependable, unattended playback, especially businesses with multiple locations or where employees should not control the music directly.
Web browser
You can also stream Pandora CloudCover directly from a web browser on an internet-connected computer.
This can be a convenient option if you already have a computer connected to your business sound system and don't want to add a dedicated streaming device.
Things to consider
The computer and browser become the music player, so they need to remain available for playback. Unlike a CloudBox, browser playback does not provide locally stored fallback music if your internet connection is interrupted.
You can also use the web app to remotely control another player, such as a CloudBox. In that case, the computer you're using for control does not need to be the device playing the music.
Best for: Offices, front desks, or other environments where a computer is already available and can reliably be used for playback.
Mobile app
The free Pandora CloudCover app can stream music directly from a phone or tablet.
You can select Stations, Mix Stations, and Dayparts and play the audio through the device itself or connect it to compatible audio equipment.
Things to consider
Like browser playback, the mobile device needs an internet connection while streaming and does not provide the CloudBox's locally stored fallback playback.
The mobile app can also be used as a remote control for a CloudBox, so your phone does not need to remain at the business when a CloudBox is handling playback.
Best for: Portable setups, temporary installations, or businesses that prefer to use an existing phone or tablet.
Sonos
Already have Sonos speakers or amplifiers? Pandora CloudCover can work with compatible Sonos systems.
You can add Pandora CloudCover as a music service in the Sonos app and stream directly through your Sonos system without a separate CloudBox.
You can also connect a CloudBox to compatible Sonos equipment using line-in if you prefer the benefits of a dedicated Pandora CloudCover player while continuing to use Sonos for your sound system.
Best for: Businesses that already use Sonos and want to incorporate Pandora CloudCover into their existing audio setup.
Still deciding?
For most businesses that need music playing reliably throughout the day, a CloudBox is the recommended option because it provides a dedicated, tamper-resistant player with remote control, automatic restart, and playback protection during temporary internet interruptions.
If you already have a computer, mobile device, or Sonos system that works well for your environment, you can also start streaming without purchasing a CloudBox.