Bose’s new speaker faces off with Sonos – but not how you might think

Bose just launched its Lifestyle Ultra lineup, and the smart speaker stands out in a crowded market where most people already have a favorite. Unlike many brands that lock you into one system, Bose keeps things open. Want to use your phone, tablet, or laptop? No problem. Need Google Cast, Apple AirPlay, or Alexa? It’s all there. The speaker isn’t cheap—usually costing $50 to $100 more than competitors—but it tries to justify that with stronger sound and fewer limits. The design looks modern, with a sleek body and three built-in speakers: two facing forward and one angled upward. That third speaker helps create a wider soundstage, though it’s not a full surround-sound experience like some pricier setups. Still, when cranked up, the bass hits hard, and the highs stay clear. If you tweak the settings in the app, the sound smooths out even at loud volumes. For those who love warm, balanced audio, it’s pretty close to what the Sonos Era 100 delivers.What makes this speaker special isn’t just its sound—it’s how easily it fits into any home. Bose has always avoided locking users into one ecosystem, and that’s a big deal. Need to sync it with a Sonos speaker in another room? Just group them in the app. Want to plug in an old turntable? There’s a 3. 5mm jack for that. Two of these speakers can even pair up like a mini stereo system or act as rear channels for a TV setup. The only catch? Voice control is limited to Alexa in the U. S. , so if you’re all-in on Google Assistant or Siri, you might miss those options. Budget speakers like the Sonos Era 100 or a basic HomePod often cost less too, but they come with trade-offs—closed ecosystems, fewer connection choices, or weaker sound flexibility. For anyone tired of fighting with different systems, Bose’s approach might be worth the extra cash.