JBL just announced a pair of portable speakers that take advantage of its AI Sound Boost technology. The software analyzes the signal and maximizes the speaker’s output while minimizing distortion. The company claims this improves sound quality.
Compared to the previous generation, the Flip 7 has a removable strap and carabiner, as well as an updated layout of the controls. The Flip 6 easily made it onto our list of the best portable Bluetooth speakers, so any improvement is just icing on the cake. It also has an updated woofer with more output, which should improve the sound even more.
Battery life is rated at 14 hours on a single charge. There’s a Playtime Boost feature that reduces the bass to add an additional two hours of playback. The Flip 7 offers the ability to output to multiple speakers with Auracast support and can play lossless audio over USB-C, just like the Beats Pill. Pre-orders are open now, and shipping starts on April 6. This speaker costs $150.
The Charge 6 also has a new design with a redesigned button layout and a detachable, reconfigurable strap. Like the Flip 7, it has an updated woofer for improved sound. Battery life is impressive: 24 hours of use on a single battery charge. That’s a few hours more than the Charge 5. It also has Playtime Boost for even more power and a fast-charging feature.
This speaker can be used as part of a larger system via Auracast. Pre-orders are available now, and shipping begins April 6. That extra battery life does add a bit to the price, as the Charge 6 costs $200.
