Summer Speakers

Sonos Is Getting Back in the Speaker Game With a New Outdoor-Ready Model

Sonos unveiled its first new consumer products in nearly two years, with the outdoor Play speaker and a streamlined version of the Era 100

By Jonathan Zavaleta

Jonathan Zavaleta

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March 11, 2026

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Just don’t call it a comeback. After a quiet couple of years focused on recalibrating its app, Sonos is ready to get back to making new speakers. The brand announced two new models, including its first brand-new consumer audio product in two years.

The Sonos Play is a new outdoor-ready speaker that sits between the handheld Roam and larger Move models. It has the bells and whistles you’d expect from a Sonos speaker, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay compatibility, plus a drop-proof build, IP67 waterproofing, and up to 24 hours of battery life.

Sonos Unveils Outdoor-Ready Play Speaker, Available for Preorder

Sonos Play Speaker

$299.00

Preorder at sonos

preorder on amazon

The Sonos Play speaker comes with a wireless charging base and boasts up to 24 hours of battery life.

The Play speaker also has a handy carrying strap for outdoor use, and while the nearly three-pound weight arguably makes it overkill as a travel speaker, it’s light enough for beach days, park hangs, and backyard use. It can also be used as part of an indoor multi-room audio setup, thanks to Wi-Fi compatibility. Additionally, the Play speaker can be used as a portable battery for smartphones.

In addition to the Play speaker, Sonos announced the Era 100 SL, a streamlined, budget-friendly version of its entry-level multiroom speaker, without the built-in microphone. While the lack of a mic means no Alexa or Sonos Voice Control, the Era 100 SL otherwise offers identical performance and capabilities to the 100, for $30 less.

The Play and 100 SL are the first consumer-focused products in about two years, but the brand quietly unveiled the Amp Multi earlier this year, aimed at professionals.

Sonos’ reputation took a hit in 2024 after a buggy app rollout cost it customers and led to a corporate overhaul. But even with new, compelling alternatives entering the mix, Sonos remains the best-known name in home multiroom audio. The brand’s latest products are (hopefully) a sign of a brand that’s getting its groove back.

Both the Sonos Play and Era 100 SL are available for preorder now and will be released on March 31.

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