While Sonos is going through a very turbulent period, rumors about a potential takeover are growing. And several big names in tech have already been mentioned…
A completely missed update
The situation of the American company is almost unprecedented in the technological landscape. Because it owes its descent into hell to a completely missed update of its flagship application, deployed in May 2024. Sonos users, who until then favored an ultra-fluid experience between software and hardware, had to face a multitude restrictive bugs: inaccessible basic functionalities, music libraries vanished, speakers that suddenly disconnect while listening, etc.
The application, which is not yet perfectly stable today, has also been stripped of essential functions such as editing playlists or setting alarms. Problem is, going back was never possible due to the aging architecture of Sonos systems. These numerous malfunctions, coupled with a lack of communication with customers, caused the value of the manufacturer to plummet by $500 million..
Last week, its CEO, Patrick Spence, left the ship. He is replaced by Tom Conrad, who holds this position on an interim basis.
Who for a possible buyout?
If his mission is to turn around Sonos, it is not an easy task as the company finds itself in a precarious situation. So much so that the possibility of an acquisition is not entirely set aside. Apple was quickly mentioned, but this option is unlikely; the apple brand already has everything it needs in this area.
On the other hand, Spotify could be one of the companies interested in acquiring Sonos due to its interest in sound and hardware. It would also not be surprising if Samsung showed up, because the Korean giant, which has a portfolio of audio devices, is placing emphasis on this product category.
But it is Amazon which seems to be in the best position at the moment. The e-commerce juggernaut is reportedly looking to overhaul its smart speakers, focusing on more high-end devices. Sonos has both the technology and hardware to do this.
Nothing is guaranteed yet. The sale of the audio specialist has not been confirmed, although it is certain that given its situation, the prospects of a takeover by a tech giant would do it the greatest good… provided that it is validated by the antitrust authorities.
- Sonos has lost $500 million in value since its completely botched app update in May 2024.
- More and more rumors of a takeover are circulating through the media.
- Giants like Samsung, Spotify or Amazon might want to get their hands on Sonos.
