In a collaboration that stretches back to 2019, Sonos and Ikea have been angling at making quality audio easier to access. And the upcoming entry in the Symfonisk line is a picture frame WiFi speaker that combines the audio company's track record in sound with the trappings of visual art.
Available in the United States beginning July 15, the Symfonisk picture frame WiFi speaker ($199), will come in black and white models, and is set to feature a tweeter and a woofer in a package that's about two-inches deep and measures 16" x 22". The new speaker's meant to function as a standalone sound source, be paired with another frame for a stereo effect or to compliment other entries into the Symfonisk line.
Like other Sonos products, it can be controlled by the company's namesake app and enables the use of Apple’s AirPlay 2. The speaker, however, does not feature Bluetooth capabilities.
“Sonos’ acoustic design means the picture frame speaker sounds amazing for such a compact shape, and the Sonos app means it is effortless to set up and effortless to use,” said Sonos' Principal Product Manager Sara Morris in a press release. “This long-term collaboration continues to deliver exciting new ideas that will bring great listening experiences to homes across the globe — we look forward to delivering more unique products together in the future.”
Adorning the Symfonisk picture frame WiFi speaker is a design by Jennifer Idrizi. Only two options exist now, as the front of the speaker doesn't allow for users to affix anything other than the factory-produced images, but more options are said to be forthcoming.
The Sonos-Ikea collaboration reportedly is continuing, according to The Verge, with an update in the works for a redesigned table-lamp speaker. For more information about the Symfonisk line, visit the Sonos website.