Sonos Launches $299 Play Portable Speaker

Sonos has introduced the Play, a $299 portable speaker designed to bridge the gap between its compact Roam 2 and the larger Move 2 models. Launched earlier this month, the device combines WiFi-enabled multiroom audio capabilities with Bluetooth portability, offering users a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor listening.

The Play measures about 7.6 inches tall and weighs 1.3 kilograms, featuring a cylindrical design with a perforated grille, rubberized grips for stability, and a removable carrying loop for easy transport. It includes an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, allowing submersion in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. A wireless charging dock comes in the box, color-matched to the speaker's black or white finish, though a separate USB-C power adapter is required. Physical buttons on the top handle volume, play/pause, and voice assistant activation, while a rear switch mutes microphones for privacy.

At its core, the Play delivers balanced audio through two angled tweeters for stereo separation, a midwoofer for mids and bass, and dual passive radiators to enhance low-end response, particularly in open spaces. This setup mirrors the non-portable Era...