Rumors are swirling about the upcoming release of the Sonos Move 2, the next-generation portable speaker from Sonos. Expected to hit the market in late September, the Move 2 is said to boast significant improvements in audio performance, battery life, connectivity, and design, making it an exciting prospect for music enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
The new speaker, which will retail for $449 in the United States, is set to be an enhanced version of its predecessor, the Sonos Move, which gained popularity for its versatility and impressive sound quality. Unlike previous naming conventions, Sonos will reportedly skip the "Gen 2" designation and simply call it the Sonos Move 2.
The most notable upgrade in the Move 2 should be the introduction of true stereo playback, a substantial improvement from the original Move's mono output. This enhancement is made possible by the inclusion of dual angled tweeters, along with the existing woofer that handles bass frequencies. Additionally, the Move 2 features Automatic Trueplay, which automatically optimizes the sound based on the speaker's placement, ensuring an immersive listening experience.
Battery life is another area that has reportedly seen significant improvement. The Sonos Move 2 is expected to offer continuous playback for up to 24 hours, more than doubling the 10-hour playback time of its predecessor. The battery will remain replaceable, and energy-saving features have been implemented to enhance standby endurance.
Connectivity options have also received an upgrade. Similar to the Sonos Roam, the Move 2 will now be able to play Bluetooth audio across the rest of your Sonos system when at home, allowing for seamless integration with other Sonos devices. The addition of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 further enhances connectivity options. Furthermore, the Move 2 will feature a USB-C port that supports line-in audio and can charge external devices, adding to its utility and convenience, especially during outdoor adventures.
In terms of design, the Sonos Move 2 retains the rugged and durable build of its predecessor. It boasts an IP56 dust and water resistance rating, protecting the speaker from the elements and accidental spills. The wireless charging base station now features a detachable power adapter, providing users with added flexibility.
Notably, the Sonos Move 2 will support Sonos Voice Control and Amazon Alexa but will no longer include Google Assistant, a change attributed to a legal dispute between Sonos and Google. Despite this omission, users can still enjoy voice-assisted controls through Sonos' proprietary system.
The Move 2 will be available in three colors: black, white, and a new olive option. Its weight remains similar to the original, clocking in at over six pounds (around 3 kilograms), making it a sturdy but portable option for on-the-go music enthusiasts.
While fans eagerly await the official confirmation from Sonos, the leaked information and images of the Move 2 have sparked excitement within the audio community.
If the reports prove accurate, the Sonos Move 2 promises to be a worthy successor, offering enhanced stereo sound, extended battery life, and improved connectivity for a more enjoyable listening experience both at home and on the move.
