While there are occasional leaks, that often are not accurate, SONOS does not announce future releases.

​@MocoHoosier 

As there even are no rumors about a Sonos Five update I would go and buy one. It’s still a fantastic speaker.

I appreciate the insight. Thank you both!

Its internal tech is way behind current gen. Ex only 802.11a/b/g/n wifi and 512mb ram. Ok specs for  Sonos released in 2018, but not 2025. May limit what new features are added to your high end speakers. 

I would not buy.  

What would you recommend he buy then? (bearing in mind you’re staunchly anti-Sonos anyway).

If you always want to buy new hardware directly after its release to get maximum up to date time, there will be a very small period / chance of buying new things. If a device is broken and I need a replacement or even if my „need“ is that high, I will go and buy what I like and what is the latest version.

On the other hand people often are disappointed when waiting for a new version, because it doesn’t fit their expectations. 
 

In the end it’s a very personal decision how to handle this.