Sonos has faced a tumultuous year. However, with the appointment of a new interim CEO, the company is reportedly gearing up to introduce an exciting new product: a competitor to the Apple TV 4K, expected to retail between $200 and $400. This initiative is referred to internally as ‘Pinewood.’
Anticipated Release of New Sonos TV Streaming Box ‘Soon’
As reported by Chris Welch in The Verge:
Sonos is making a significant move into an entirely new product realm by entering the video market for the first time. In the next few months, the company is expected to launch a streaming device, with insights suggesting a retail price between $200 and $400—an impressive cost point for this category.
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The Pinewood streaming player is set to integrate content from multiple platforms, including Netflix, Max, and Disney Plus, into a single cohesive software experience. It will boast a universal search feature that spans various streaming services. This effort is aimed at addressing the fragmented landscape of contemporary entertainment—a crucial aspect of Pinewood’s attractiveness. Additionally, there will be Sonos Voice Control support, and the device will include a physical remote control featuring shortcuts for popular streaming applications.
According to Welch, the device is “deep into development” and has a design resembling a black square that is slightly thicker than a deck of cards.
Additional features of the ‘Pinewood’ device are as follows:
- functions as an HDMI switch, allowing connections to devices such as gaming consoles
- capable of wirelessly transmitting lag-free TV audio to Sonos soundbars and other products
- enables the configuration of a surround sound system using various Sonos speakers
- boasting a “stunning” user interface
This new product represents a bold and ambitious venture for Sonos, with the potential to significantly influence the company’s direction—whether positively or negatively.
Welch emphasizes that the unveiling of this product is anticipated in the forthcoming months, so we can expect more details soon.
DMN’s Perspective
The Apple TV 4K has faced criticism for its pricing over the years; however, the recent version has seen a reduction to a more approachable starting price of $129.
Sonos introducing a product priced potentially two to three times higher feels like a considerable gamble. Nevertheless, I’ll reserve my judgment until further specifics about ‘Pinewood’ are revealed.
Are you intrigued by the upcoming Sonos TV streaming box? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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