 |
| The Sonos Play will sit in between the Move 2 and Roam 2 portable Bluetooth speakers. |
Sonos might be gearing up to launch its first must-have product of 2026, as a new speaker has been spotted online along with a release date scheduled for later this month. The yet-to-be-announced speaker, dubbed the Sonos Play, appears to be the "Goldilocks" device for fans of the brand’s portable audio—bridging the gap between the compact Roam 2 and the powerful, bulky Move 2.
The new product was first uncovered in a listing on Best Buy Canada by an eagle-eyed Redditor, according to screenshots shared on the r/Sonos subreddit. While the listing has since been pulled offline—a classic sign of an accidental early publish—the internet has already preserved all the details .
A Closer Look at the Sonos Play
According to the now-deleted product page, the Sonos Play is designed to fit comfortably in the hand, offering a form factor that is smaller than the popular Sonos Move 2 but larger than the ultra-portable Roam 2 .
Design and Durability
The leaked images show a speaker that aesthetically mirrors the cylindrical design language of the Move 2, available in the classic black and white color options. However, there is a distinct design twist: unlike the Move 2 (which features a recessed carrying grip), the Sonos Play includes a physical carry strap .
This strap complements a significant upgrade in durability. The spec sheet reportedly lists an IP67 dust and water resistance rating. This is a notable improvement over the Move 2, which currently has an IP56 rating (offering protection against water jets but not full immersion) .
Features and Battery Life
Despite its smaller stature, the Play appears to pack a punch regarding features. The listing confirms support for dual connectivity: Wi-Fi for multi-room audio setups (supporting up to 32 speakers) and Bluetooth for on-the-go listening . Apple users will be happy to see support for AirPlay 2, and the device will also support voice control via Amazon Alexa .
One of the most compelling features is the inclusion of a USB-C port that supports power delivery. Not only can this charge the speaker itself, but it can also function as a power bank to top up a smartphone . The battery life is expected to last up to 24 hours on a single charge, and it supports wireless charging via a dedicated base .
Price and Release Date
The Sonos Play was listed at a price of CA$399, which roughly converts to $293 USD, €250, or £218 . This pricing strategically fills the gap in Sonos’s portable lineup between the Roam 2 (starts at $179) and the high-end Move 2 (currently $499 on Amazon) .
For those eager to get their hands on it, the Best Buy listing stated a release date of March 31, 2026, with backorders scheduled to ship by March 23 . Given the prevalence of the leak, an official announcement from Sonos is expected any day now.
You can view the original screenshots and discussion that broke the news on the dedicated Sonos subreddit here.
Analysis: Filling the Portable Gap
The leak of the Sonos Play suggests the company is refining its portable strategy. The Move 2, while sonically impressive, is heavy and designed more for moving around the house and backyard rather than throwing in a bag. The Roam 2, while highly portable, sometimes sacrifices bass response and power due to its size.
The Sonos Play aims to split the difference. With an IP67 rating, it is actually more rugged than the Move 2, making it a true outdoor companion for the beach or pool. Yet, it retains the acoustic advantages of a Wi-Fi connected Sonos speaker when at home.
The inclusion of a USB-C auxiliary input—a feature absent on the Roam 2—also hints that Sonos is listening to feedback from vinyl enthusiasts who want to connect a turntable directly to a portable speaker .
With just a few weeks to go until the purported launch date, it is likely only a matter of time before Sonos makes it official. If you are in the market for a portable speaker that doesn't force you to choose between durability and sound quality, the Sonos Play might be the device you have been waiting for.
