It has been a wild roller coaster ride for Sonos, as an app update caused a butterfly effect that resulted in such a mess that not only affected the company financially but the aftermath forced the Chief Executive to step down. Thankfully, the audio equipment manufacturer is not yet ready to throw in the towel because it is venturing into another category that will directly compete with the Apple TV 4K, a streaming box. The device has been reported to run Android, and if you want to put it in your living room, it could be one of the most expensive purchases you ever make for this product category.
The Sonos streaming box could be a pricey undertaking, with the company apparently stamping a figure between $200 and $400
Talking about its design, Chris Welch from The Verge claims that he has seen images of the streaming box, which is currently deep into development. From the top, it touts a flattened black square and thinner than a deck of trading cards. Coming to more specifics, the streaming box is codenamed ‘Pinewood’ and runs Android. However, the report states that it will be more than just a standard competitor to the Apple TV 4K, as the interface tested out by people familiar with the product mentions that it is beautiful.
It might be surprising to hear that the UI is embellished, especially when the software has been developed in collaboration with a digital advertisement agency. A multitude of streaming services, such as Disney Plus, Netflix, and others, will be under the streaming box’s roof, with unified software delivering the entire experience. Other additions, such as Sonos Voice Control, will be added, with a physical remote control being shipped as part of the package that will feature shortcuts for the aforementioned streaming apps.
For wireless connectivity, gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 7 will be included, and for wired connectivity, the streaming box features multiple HDMI ports with passthrough functionality, meaning that gaming consoles can be connected. One area that Sonos’ engineers have wanted to tackle is the audio sync delays and other issues that materialize between its soundbars and other TVs. With the streaming box, Sonos will have greater control of the I/O stack, and the device can transmit lag-free audio to the company’s other products.
The box would also be able to create genuine surround sound, but just as long as it is linked to Sonos’ other speakers. The company is still figuring out which speaker arrangements will be supported. Going by the features and description of the streaming box, it appears that Sonos is highly ambitious with its latest product, but it remains to be seen how big of an impact it will make when it officially arrives. Would customers be willing to pay between $200 and $400 for it? That is the million-dollar question.
News Source: The Verge
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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