Sonos in talks to add Roku's entertainment software to its devices

From CNET: Sonos and Roku may soon become closer buddies.

The two device makers are in preliminary talks about integrating Roku's new entertainment software, Roku Connect and Roku Entertainment Assistant, into Sonos' audio gadgets, according to a person familiar with the conversations. Such a partnership would potentially allow voice commands to be sent to a Roku TV or Roku streamer via a nearby Sonos One speaker.

"The discussions are in the early stages," the person said. That means any announcement from the home-entertainment companies could be months away. There's also a possibility that the talks will break down and no agreement will be reached.

But a deal would offer a boost to the Roku Entertainment Assistant, the streaming-video company's new voice assistant, which is slated to come out next year. Roku Connect software helps devices more easily pair wirelessly to each other, such as a TV with speakers, and allows these devices to be controlled using voice commands. Both platforms were first announced in January.

When asked for comment about the talks, Sonos spokeswoman Laura Morarity said the audio company "won't speculate on any potential future partnerships." She then added: "That said, Sonos is committed to bringing the voice services our customers want to our platform. So naturally, we're open to having discussions with any number of companies crafting innovative voice experiences."

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