Following a turbulent two-year stretch that included a failed app launch, executive turnover, and significant revenue decline, Sonos is releasing its first new consumer speakers since 2024.
The company has announced two products: the Sonos Play, a portable speaker priced at $299, and the Era 100 SL, priced at $189. Both are available for preorder now, with general availability set for March 31st.
What the Sonos Play Offers
The Play is built for home use but designed to travel. It weighs under three pounds, stands 7.5 inches tall, 4.5 inches wide, and 3 inches deep, with a cylindrical oval shape. A removable utility loop allows it to be carried or hung. Physical controls on top handle playback, volume, voice assistant muting, and speaker grouping.
Inside, the speaker houses a midwoofer, two angled tweeters, and a pair of force-canceling passive radiators, all driven by three class-H amplifiers. It carries an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, delivers up to 24 hours of playback, and includes USB-C output to charge other devices.
Connectivity runs over both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. On Bluetooth, the Play can group with up to three additional Play or Move 2 speakers — according to the announcement, a first for Sonos. When at home on its charging base, it supports automatic Trueplay tuning through the Sonos app, provided the microphone is active. A replacement battery kit is available separately for $69.
The Era 100 SL and What It Adds
The Era 100 SL is a stripped-back version of the existing Era 100. It shares the same physical dimensions and speaker layout — two angled tweeters and a single midwoofer — making it sonically matched to its sibling. The key difference is the absence of a built-in microphone, which accounts for the lower price point.
At $189, the speaker targets both existing customers looking to expand their setup and new buyers seeking a lower-cost entry point. It can be paired with an Era 100 to form a stereo configuration for use with a Bluetooth turntable.
The backdrop to both launches is significant. The 2024 app rollout drew widespread criticism, contributing to layoffs across multiple rounds and the departure of CEO Patrick Spence. Revenue declined notably in the period that followed. Interim CEO Tom Conrad has since been confirmed in the role permanently, and the company’s stated focus is returning to its core strength in whole-home audio systems. The Play and Era 100 SL join the recently announced Amp Multi, which Sonos released for custom installation professionals.
Both speakers are available for preorder, with general availability beginning March 31st.
Photo by Shpëtim Ujkani on Unsplash
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