Tag: Sonos

  • Ubiquiti UniFi Network 10.2 Adds Time Machine, Competes with Sonos

    Ubiquiti UniFi Network 10.2 Adds Time Machine, Competes with Sonos

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubiquiti Networks released UniFi Network version 10.2, featuring the Time Machine tool for tracking network changes over the last 24 hours.
    2. The new “digital twin” feature mirrors the physical setup, aiding in troubleshooting during outages, especially in larger configurations.
    3. The announcement included a reference to Sonos, highlighting compatibility issues that resonate with Ubiquiti users.
    4. Ubiquiti’s ecosystem has faced integration challenges with Sonos, leading to past hardware alternatives like the Ubiquiti Poweramp.
    5. The release showcased new products, including network racks and the U7 Mesh, alongside highlighting the Poweramp’s features.

    Ubiquiti Networks has made an official announcement regarding the release of UniFi Network version 10.2. One of the standout features in this version is named Time Machine. This feature is akin to Apple’s Time Machine, allowing users to visually track network changes over time. It enhances the ability to monitor status changes of network ports, making it simpler to identify issues caused by configuration adjustments and changes to switch ports. As noted in the release notes, this feature tracks the last 24 hours of activity.

    New Digital Twin Feature

    In addition, the new “digital twin” has been introduced to mirror the physical setup in UniFi Network 10.2. This feature aims to assist with troubleshooting, particularly during extensive outages. The digital twin is crafted to give a comprehensive view, even in larger rack configurations. The announcement video also includes a subtle dig at Sonos, which has seemingly delighted the Ubiquiti community. Specifically, Ubiquiti showcased a Sonos device to demonstrate a network issue, a scenario that many users seem to resonate with.

    Ubiquiti and Sonos Compatibility Issues

    It’s well-known that the ecosystems of Ubiquiti and Sonos do not integrate very well. In fact, these compatibility problems have occasionally triggered hardware changes in the past. For example, rumors suggest that Ubiquiti introduced the Ubiquiti Poweramp a few years back as an alternative to select Sonos products. This device was also featured at MWC 2026 in Barcelona, and although it appears a bit out of sync with the current offerings, it was still prominently showcased alongside new items such as the latest network racks and the U7 Mesh.

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  • Philips Hue and Sonos Voice Control Integration Coming Soon

    Philips Hue and Sonos Voice Control Integration Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sonos is developing voice command functionality for Philips Hue smart home devices.
    2. This feature will allow users to control smart lights and modify brightness using voice commands.
    3. The exact functionality and activation method of this feature remain unclear until officially confirmed by Sonos.
    4. Sonos users can currently manage Philips Hue devices using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, but there are performance issues with these integrations.
    5. The anticipated launch of Sonos Voice Control for Philips Hue is expected before the end of 2025, but no specific date has been announced.

    Sonos is apparently developing a new voice command functionality for Philips Hue smart home devices. This would mark a first for the company; while Sonos’ Voice Control already lets users ask for music from various streaming platforms or change the volume, it doesn’t yet allow control of smart home gadgets.

    Unclear Features Ahead

    Sonos hasn’t officially verified that Voice Control will work with Philips Hue products. Therefore, it’s uncertain how this feature will exactly function. Users will likely activate the assistant in the same manner as before, beginning commands with “Hey Sonos…”. Reports from Hueblog.com suggest that Philips Hue users could leverage this feature to turn smart lights on and off, as well as modify their brightness. There may also be an ability to initiate smart lighting scenes using voice commands.

    Existing Alternatives

    It’s important to mention that Sonos users can already manage Philips Hue devices via their speakers when using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. However, there have been longstanding problems with these integrations, which could affect performance.

    The introduction of Sonos Voice Control for Philips Hue is anticipated to happen before 2025 concludes. Nevertheless, a specific launch date has yet to be announced. Sonos Voice Control is currently available on several of the brand’s devices, including the Era 100 speaker (curr. $179 at Amazon).

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  • IKEA and Sonos Partnership Ends: Symfonisk Range to be Discontinued

    IKEA and Sonos Partnership Ends: Symfonisk Range to be Discontinued

    Key Takeaways

    1. The partnership between IKEA and Sonos, which created the Symfonisk series, is ending after eight years.
    2. No new Symfonisk products will be released, but existing products will still receive support and software updates from Sonos.
    3. Symfonisk products can connect to Sonos devices and be controlled through the Sonos S2 and IKEA Home Smart apps.
    4. The products are compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect, allowing for stereo sound by pairing speakers.
    5. Current Symfonisk products are still available for purchase online in the US, UK, and Netherlands, with no final sale notices announced.

    The partnership between IKEA and Sonos is wrapping up. This collaboration started eight years ago, aiming to create the Symfonisk series. The products created include a Wi-Fi bookshelf speaker, a picture frame that has a Wi-Fi speaker, and a range of speaker lamps.

    End of an Era

    According to a recent report by The Verge, a representative from Sonos has confirmed the end of this partnership, which means no new products will be released in the future. It seems that the existing products will gradually be removed from shelves worldwide, but Sonos has assured customers that they will continue to support the current Symfonisk lineup “for many years to come,” including software updates in the future.

    Smart Connectivity

    IKEA’s Symfonisk products can be connected to Sonos devices and can be controlled using the Sonos S2 app. Additionally, these smart devices can also be managed through the IKEA Home Smart app when linked to the Dirigera Hub. They are compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect, and you can enjoy stereo sound by pairing two speakers together.

    Availability Status

    Regarding the removal of IKEA Symfonisk products, they remain accessible for purchase on the brand’s online platforms in countries such as the US, UK, and Netherlands. Currently, there is no indication on the IKEA website about any final sales or limited stock notices.

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  • Sonos Discontinues Android Streaming Device Support

    Sonos Discontinues Android Streaming Device Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sonos has canceled the release of its streaming device, codenamed Pinewood, which was in advanced development and had undergone beta testing.
    2. The device was expected to be priced between $200 and $400 and designed to run on Android with features like universal search and Wi-Fi 7.
    3. The team working on the streaming device will be reassigned to other projects following the cancellation.
    4. With the device’s cancellation, Sonos currently has no significant product launches planned for this year, including updates on new premium headphones.
    5. 2023 has seen several changes at Sonos, including the resignation of the CEO, layoffs of over 200 staff, and departures of key executives.

    There have been news about Sonos working on a streaming device. However, new information has come to light that indicates Sonos has decided to cancel the release of this device, which was expected to be the first in a new line of hardware, similar to the Ace headphones.

    Cancellation Announcement

    The decision to scrap the device, known by the codename Pinewood, was shared during a company-wide meeting. As per a report from The Verge, it was quite advanced in development and had undergone several months of beta testing. Now, the team that was working on the streaming device will be moved to other projects.

    Pricing and Features

    This streaming device was estimated to cost between $200 and $400. It was designed to run on Android and would have integrated content from multiple platforms into a single interface. Additionally, it was expected to support universal search, Wi-Fi 7, and include an ethernet port.

    Future Prospects

    With the cancellation of this streaming device, which was slated for a January 2025 launch, Sonos appears to lack any significant product launches planned for this year. There’s also been no updates regarding the speculated new premium headphones.

    This cancellation adds to a series of significant events at Sonos in 2023. The CEO, Patrick Spence, stepped down in early January and was succeeded by interim CEO Tom Conrad. Shortly after, it was revealed that Deirdre Findlay, the chief commercial officer, intended to leave the company. In early February, Sonos also laid off over 200 staff members and announced that their marketing officer, Jordan Saxemard, would also be leaving.

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  • Sonos Announces Layoffs of 200 Employees During Restructuring

    Sonos Announces Layoffs of 200 Employees During Restructuring

    Founded in 2002, Sonos employed over 1,700 people by the year 2024. Unfortunately, the past few years have been filled with numerous challenges due to the global economic downturn, alongside various controversies related to software and product support. As a result, the company is reorganizing its Product division into distinct teams focusing on hardware, software, design, quality, and operations. Regrettably, this restructuring will also lead to job cuts.

    Job Cuts and Severance Packages

    In a public letter from interim CEO Thomas Conrad, it was noted that “about 200 positions” will be eliminated, with impacted employees receiving a severance package that reflects their time with Sonos. Moreover, their RSUs will keep vesting until the vest date on February 15, and those on the quarterly bonus scheme will get a Q1 bonus if it is achieved. US workers facing layoffs will maintain their healthcare coverage throughout the severance period.

    Improving Project Prioritization

    According to the letter, Sonos is striving to enhance project prioritization. Thomas Conrad feels that the company’s recent tendency to commit to too many projects requires adjustment. Meanwhile, for those keen on Sonos products, they can check out Amazon to snag the Era 100 Alexa-enabled smart speaker at $199, reduced from its original price of $249 due to a limited-time 20% discount. This speaker comes in both black and white, with both options currently on sale.

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  • Sonos CEO Resigns After Tough 2024; Interim CEO Appointed

    Sonos CEO Resigns After Tough 2024; Interim CEO Appointed

    Patrick Spence, CEO of Sonos, has decided to resign effective immediately. His departure follows a challenging 2024, which was marked by the launch of a new companion app that was meant to be more user-friendly, quicker, and overall better, as stated by Spence. Regrettably, the app, which debuted in May 2024, missed several key features present in the previous version. Additionally, the company’s first headphones, the Sonos Ace, did not perform as well as anticipated.

    Official Announcement

    Sonos has confirmed Spence’s resignation in an official statement, noting that he will also resign from his position on the board. As the search for a new CEO begins, Tom Conrad, who has been an independent board member since 2017, will step in as Interim CEO. Conrad brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked as the Chief Product Officer for Quibi, Vice President of Product at Snap Inc., and Chief Technology Officer and VP of Product at Pandora.

    Transition Period

    As reported by The Verge, Spence is the only high-level executive departing. However, he will technically stay on with the company until the end of June to provide strategic advisory services. After this period, he will receive a severance package totaling $1,875,000.

    Future Plans

    Sonos has no intentions of reverting to the previous app, nor are there any plans to delay upcoming products, including a rumored streaming device. In a letter to employees, Conrad expressed his commitment to not only getting the company back on the right path but also expanding the Sonos platform.

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