Sonos Cancels High-End Streaming Box Project “Pinewood”
Sonos has officially ended work on its high-end streaming set-top box, codenamed “Pinewood,” which was expected to launch in 2025. According to a report by The Verge, the project was canceled during a company meeting today, with employees who had been working on the device being reassigned to other teams.
A Major Shift in Sonos’ Roadmap
The “Pinewood” project was set to be Sonos’ flagship product for late 2025, with significant resources dedicated to its development. The device was reportedly near completion, having undergone months of beta testing. However, interim CEO Tom Conrad has decided to shift Sonos’ priorities, putting a hold on the company’s plans to venture into video streaming for now.
What Was “Pinewood”?
The streaming box was designed to compete directly with popular devices like the Apple TV, offering a sleek black design with a polished Android interface. It aimed to deliver content from Netflix, Max, Disney Plus, and other streaming platforms. Priced between $200 and $400, the set-top box promised a premium experience.
In addition to streaming content, “Pinewood” was intended to distinguish itself from competitors by doubling as an HDMI switch. Users could connect gaming consoles, soundbars, and other devices using its passthrough functionality. It even addressed a well-known latency issue that has long frustrated Sonos users.
Why the Project Was Canceled
Sonos initially envisioned “Pinewood” as a way to reduce fragmentation in the streaming ecosystem while expanding its product lineup. However, the company has decided to reprioritize its goals. For now, the push into video is off the table.
What’s Next for Sonos?
Following the disappointing reception of last May’s app update, Sonos plans to focus on software improvements to enhance the user experience. While the “Pinewood” project might not see the light of day, Sonos remains committed to refining its product ecosystem and meeting customer expectations.
