Google is partnering with JBL to develop a new hybrid device that blends a standard sound bar with a streaming set-top box. The new product, called the JBL Link Bar, will work as an audio hub for your living room, but it will also run Android TV and come with Google Assistant integration to enable voice search and control.

It’s an interesting combination of home entertainment products, and it’s sure to strike a little bit of a fear into Sonos, which is planning what sounds like a similar product to be unveiled on June 6th.

According to a recent FCC filing, Sonos is planning to introduce an update to its Playbar and Playbase line of soundbars, but with Alexa integration and a direct HDMI connection. That way, the new Sonos soundbar…

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