Sonos just launched 2 new speakers, with some subtle but useful upgrades

Sonos has expanded its audio lineup with two strategically positioned new speakers: the portable Sonos Play and the entry-level Sonos Era 100 SL. The Play is designed as a new mid-tier portable option, slotting between the compact Roam and the larger Move 2. It maintains the Move 2's indoor/outdoor versatility with a charging base for home use and Bluetooth for on-the-go listening, but in a slightly smaller form factor. A key upgrade is its improved durability, boasting an IP67 dust and waterproof rating, surpassing the Move 2's IP56 rating. It also introduces a proprietary Bluetooth-enabled feature for grouping multiple Play and Move 2 speakers together.

Sonos' other new offering, the Era 100 SL, is positioned as a more affordable entry point into the Sonos smart home and home theater ecosystem. This speaker is aimed at attracting new customers to the brand. Together, the Play and Era 100 SL represent a dual strategy: providing existing Sonos fans with novel ways to expand their multi-room systems, while simultaneously lowering the barrier to entry for newcomers. These launches follow Sonos's recent professional-focused amp announcement, signaling an active effort to address a perceived hardware drought and refresh its product portfolio with more modular and accessible options.