JBL’s Grip Is the Tallboy of Transportable Bluetooth Audio system

I’ve seen a variety of influences for wireless audio products (single-use pill packaging and cassette tapes, for instance), however JBL’s Grip is a primary. In line with JBL, the Grip, a brand new smallish Bluetooth speaker introduced at IFA 2025 that focuses on portability, is modeled after the proportions of a seltzer can. To be sincere, my first thought was a tallboy, however possibly that claims extra about me than it does JBL.

It doesn’t matter what you consider if you see the Grip, it appears like a strong Bluetooth speaker on paper. JBL says the Grip has 16W of sound and IP68 water and dirt safety, so that you don’t have to fret about this factor getting moist. For context, IP68 means this machine will be submerged in water as much as 1.5 meters deep for half-hour. In step with the portability focus, JBL additionally included a loop on the again panel that you would be able to slide a rope by and tie it to your bike, which you’ll positively nonetheless trip, given you haven’t drunk an excessive amount of… seltzer.

The Grip additionally comes with AI Sound Enhance, which is supposed to provide this speaker “extra highly effective and deeper” bass with out inflicting distortion. For funsies, there’s a lightweight on the again panel, too, which JBL says will be adjusted utilizing its companion app to vary the colour and brightness. When you’re feeling just a little wild, you can even pair the Grip with one other speaker by way of Auracast to make use of each concurrently.

One of many greatest downfalls of moveable audio system is often the battery life, since a smaller machine often means a smaller battery, however JBL says its Grip is rated for 12 hours of playback and might get an additional two hours if Playtime Enhance is activated. If these estimates are true, that’s not a foul battery life for a speaker on this weight class. The Grip will are available in a number of colours, together with white, black, crimson, blue, and camo, however my private favourite is the purple one. When you’re in determined want of an ice-cold beer—I imply, a transportable Bluetooth speaker—you may preorder the Grip now for $99.95 or look forward to a wider launch on Sept. 28. Cheers.