Image: Nielsoncaetanosalmeron / CC BY 4.0 (Wikimedia Commons)
In short: On 8 September 2026, Sonos announced Sonos 27, a major software update. AI assistants such as ChatGPT and Claude can now control Sonos speakers, portables like Move 2 and Sonos Play can act as surround speakers, and the app is simpler. For portables, choose between Roam 2 (about €200), Sonos Play (about €350) and Move 2 (about €500).
What Sonos 27 brings
Sonos 27mcp uses the Model Context Protocol, an open standard that lets AI assistants talk to devices. It launches in early access and works with ChatGPT and Claude. Sonos 27voice, a new voice assistant, follows this autumn, and Custom Agents come in 2027. Portable Surrounds lets a Move 2 or Sonos Play act as rear speakers with Arc Ultra, Arc, Beam Ultra or Beam (Gen 2). Headphone Linking sends TV sound from the soundbar to the Ace Ultra. The new app has Home, System and Search tabs, Siri and Shortcuts support and a two-finger volume dial, with presets later this autumn. Before giving an AI assistant access to devices, check the permissions; see our AI tools guide.
Portable speakers compared
| Model | Price (hifi.de) | Weight | Battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roam 2 | €199.99 | 430 g | 10 h |
| Sonos Play | €349 | 1.3 kg | 24 h |
| Move 2 | €499 | 3 kg | 24 h |
Sonos Play launched on 31 March 2026 at $299 in the US. It is IP67 rated, works as a power bank, has a replaceable battery and can group with up to three more Play or Move 2 units over Bluetooth. Sonos also introduced the Era 100 SL at $189 without a microphone. Roam 2 is the travel pick, and Move 2 offers the biggest sound for gardens and large rooms.
Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
All three portables work in two modes. At home they join your Wi-Fi, become part of your Sonos system, group with other Sonos speakers and stream directly from the internet without keeping your phone connected. On the go they switch to Bluetooth and pair like any other speaker. Set up new speakers at home first and install all updates before taking them out, because features such as Portable Surrounds need the latest software. Charge them fully before a trip.
Who should buy what
Small companion: Roam 2. Best balance of battery, toughness and price: Sonos Play. Biggest outdoor sound: Move 2. Soundbar owners: Play or Move 2 as surrounds. No microphone at home: Era 100 SL. For headphones, see our over-ear comparison. More in the speakers section.
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