In accordance with an embodiment, described herein is a system and method for testing and certification of media devices for use within a connected media environment. A testing device includes an input mechanism, for example a microphone, and a plurality of test files. Each test file can be used to produce a characteristic signal, for example an audio track having a particular frequency. The testing device emulates a gateway between a media device under test, such as an audio speaker, and a media server. Test scripts can be used to mimic commands to play or otherwise access media content at the device under test. Playback of a particular test file can be detected and recognized according to the characteristic signal produced by that test file. Resultant test information can be used to evaluate the performance and/or certify operation of the media device within the connected media environment.