- Sonos introduces Sonos 27, the next generation of its audio operating system, which features a new app and support for portable surround speakers.
- The Sonos 27mcp, an open interface for external AI assistants like ChatGPT, will launch in Early Access on September 8, 2026.
- Sonos Positioning Technology will be available starting September 8, allowing two Sonos Play or Move 2 speakers to serve as temporary rear speakers for a home theater system.
- Headphone Linking for the Sonos Ace Ultra will launch on September 29 in Early Access, enabling instant audio transfer between speakers and headphones.
- Sonos is developing Sonos 27voice, its own voice assistant for music and ambiance, designed to respond to vaguely worded requests, such as asking for a half-remembered album or starting music in multiple rooms.
- Sonos announced Sonos Custom Agents for the future, allowing users to create agents with a specific AI model, personality, and voice, but this feature is more of a preview than a finished product.
Sonos 27 represents a major shift for the company, which aims to redefine its identity beyond just a speaker manufacturer.12
The new audio operating system integrates AI control, allowing users to interact with various assistants, including ChatGPT, enhancing the listening experience.3
“Twenty years ago, we made a bet that the rest of the industry is only now arriving at - a home deserves an audio operating system made just for it,” said Tom Conrad, CEO of Sonos.
The system will feature Sonos 27voice, a proprietary voice assistant designed for music and ambiance, and Sonos 27mcp, which connects external AI assistants.678
Users can request music through ChatGPT without leaving their conversation, making it a seamless experience.
“With this Sonos integration, people can ask ChatGPT to play music anywhere in their home from their phone or computer, without leaving the conversation they’re having,” said Atty Eleti, product lead for ChatGPT Voice at OpenAI.
Additionally, Sonos Positioning Technology will allow speakers to automatically adjust their roles based on location, enhancing home theater setups.4
The new app navigation and features will begin rolling out on September 8, alongside the Sonos Ace Ultra headphones and Beam Ultra soundbar, which will be available for pre-order.5
“The smartest home isn't run by one do-everything assistant, it's run by people having the ability to pick - or create - the right agent for each job,” said Nick Millington, Chief Innovation Officer.
Sonos 27 will be available through a software update for all Sonos S2 products, with some features exclusive to specific devices.
“Sonos 27mcp, an open interface for external AI assistants, lets users control music during ongoing conversations without switching apps, and any compatible AI can connect. Sonos Positioning Technology uses inaudible high-frequency sound to turn two Play or Move 2 speakers into temporary rear speakers, available September 8 with a compatible soundbar.”
