Sonos Streaming Video Player Update: Canceled!

Back in January 2024, I wrote about rumors that Sonos was developing a streaming device integrated into a soundbar. I was intrigued, but I also had some concerns, particularly about the reported custom Android-based operating system. Now, there's a significant update: Sonos has canceled the project.

To recap, the rumored device, codenamed "Pinewood," was set to be a premium streaming device that would also function as a soundbar. It was expected to integrate seamlessly with other Sonos products and offer features like Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision. My main concern was the custom Android OS. I felt then, and still do, that Sonos would have been better served using an established Android-based platform, such as base Android TV (as NVIDIA Shield does) or, even better, Google TV, which Chromecast, TCL, Sony, and others run. Had they opted for one of these, they would have tapped into a well-established ecosystem. Instead, they were planning a customized Android version, which could have presented app compatibility issues and other challenges.

This week, The Verge reported that Sonos has officially canceled the "Pinewood" project. According to the report, the decision was made by interim CEO Tom Conrad, who is reprioritizing the company's roadmap and focusing on software improvements following a challenging 2024. Concerns about competing with established players like Roku, Amazon, Apple, and Google also played a role.

My initial skepticism about the custom OS stemmed from the potential for fragmentation. It's important to understand the relationship between Android TV and Google TV. While Android TV is the base operating system, Google TV is a more refined user interface built on top of it. Think of it like this: Android TV is the engine, and Google TV is the car's dashboard, providing a much more intuitive and user-friendly experience. Fire TV is a fork of an earlier version of Android.

The cancellation raises questions about Sonos's strategic direction. While focusing on software improvements is a sound move, it's disappointing to see a potentially innovative product shelved. However, given the competitive landscape and the risks associated with launching a new, fragmented platform, it may have been the right decision.

Ultimately, this news underscores the dynamic nature of the tech industry. Plans can change quickly, and even promising projects can be abandoned. I'm curious to see how Sonos's renewed focus on software will impact its future products.

My Streaming Life continues to be shaped by the ever-evolving landscape of streaming technology, and I'll be watching closely to see what Sonos does next.

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Related:

• TCL: Google TV vs Android TV
• The Verge: Sonos has canceled its streaming video player