Sonos is rumored to be readying its most compact portable speaker yet. Called the Roam, it's packed with smarts and set to launch next month for $169.
Works Over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
The upcoming accessory is said to support both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections. Bluetooth will be predominantly used on the go. Conversely, Wi-Fi playback will be used at home, but your Roam will need to remain connected to your existing Sonos system through your local home connection. Two Roams can be paired to a stereo configuration in Wi-Fi mode.
Sonos is thought to be formally unveiling the product on Tuesday, March 9.
The Roam is expected to go on sale on April 20, in black or white, priced at $169 a pop. The accessory will ship with the included USB-C charge cable in the box.
A wireless charging dock will be sold separately for $49.
The Smallest Sonos Speaker Yet
The Roam is expected to file as the company's smallest smart speaker yet. Technical specifications provided by a source with direct knowledge of the Roam reveal a device measuring in at just 6.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches and weighing around a pound.
Assuming these dimensions leaked by The Verge are accurate, the Roam should file as a smaller smart speaker than the Move, the very first portable speaker from Sonos. The Roam reportedly bears a much closer resemblance to Bluetooth speakers such as JBL’s Xtreme portable speaker and UE’s Boom speaker.
Built on the Sonos S2 software platform, the upcoming accessory will act as a regular Sonos speaker as part of a multi-room system.
Amazon, Google, and AirPlay Are All Supported
The Verge has provided other important details like battery capacity, which is one of the crucial metrics when evaluating portable speakers. "Battery life is expected to be around 10 hours on a full charge, and the Roam is fully waterproof, which will help it compete against the similarly-rugged competition," notes the publication.
We also know the Roam features built-in support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. As for Apple's AirPlay technology, it works on this speaker out of the box.