Sonos Allegedly Stops Development of Competitor to Apple TV 4K

Sonos Allegedly Stops Development of Competitor to Apple TV 4K

Sonos Allegedly Stops Development of Competitor to Apple TV 4K


# Sonos Abandons Plans for TV Streaming Device: Implications for the Company

Last month, **The Verge** highlighted that Sonos was in the process of creating a new hardware offering—a streaming device aimed at rivaling the Apple TV 4K. This ambitious endeavor, known by its codename “Pinewood,” was anticipated to sell for as much as $400. However, recent updates from Sonos reveal a dramatic change in direction: the company has officially put an end to its Pinewood streaming device plans.

## Sonos TV Streaming Device Is No Longer in the Works

During an all-hands gathering, Sonos’s leadership disclosed the cancellation of the Pinewood initiative. As reported by **Chris Welch** from **The Verge**, this decision is part of a more extensive reevaluation of the company’s strategic roadmap under interim CEO Tom Conrad. The Pinewood streaming device had already entered significant development stages and had completed several months of beta testing. Yet, the team that was working on the project will be redirected to other efforts as Sonos aims to recover from a tough year.

This cancellation represents another hurdle for Sonos, which has encountered several difficulties over the past year. The challenges began with a major redesign of the Sonos app, causing frustration among users and resulting in a year marked by efforts to resolve these issues, public apologies, and eventually, the exit of the former CEO.

The Pinewood streaming device was seen as a potential watershed moment for Sonos. With a new product launch, the company could have rejuvenated its brand and regained trust among consumers. Nonetheless, the decision to eliminate the project leaves Sonos without a significant new offering to unveil in the latter part of 2025.

## The Consequences of the Cancellation

The cancellation of the Pinewood streaming device prompts various inquiries regarding Sonos’s future. In the absence of a new flagship product, the company might find it challenging to uphold its market standing, especially in a landscape increasingly dominated by established competitors such as Apple, Amazon, and Roku.

The suggested premium pricing of the Pinewood device also presented a considerable challenge. While it could have introduced distinctive features and functionalities, the high price might have restricted its market viability. In an era where consumers are more cost-conscious than ever, the launch of a luxury product could have been a risky bet that Sonos was not ready to take.

## 9to5Mac’s Perspective

From a consumer viewpoint, the Pinewood streaming device was an exciting concept. Many were keen to witness how Sonos would merge its audio proficiency with a video streaming product. However, considering the company’s recent difficulties, the decision to cancel the project might ultimately prove to be a wise choice.

The cancellation also underscores the significance of timing and market preparedness. A new product launch necessitates not only groundbreaking features but also a strong base of consumer trust and brand loyalty—elements that Sonos is currently striving to restore.

## Conclusion

The cancellation of Sonos’s Pinewood streaming device marks a crucial turning point for the company, reflecting broader challenges within the tech sector. As Sonos charts its course ahead, stakeholders will be closely observing how the company adapts and what new strategies it will implement to regain its footing in the competitive audio and streaming markets.

Were you excited about Sonos’s TV streaming device? What features were you looking forward to? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!