JBL Authentics Wi-Fi Speaker Range - Retro Design Meets Voice Smarts

Using the opportunity of IFA week, JBL introduced the new JBL Authentics speaker series, expanding on the retro design of the classic JBL L100 speaker and foam grills. Following previous "retro" models introduced by Harman's luxury division, the JBL Authentics bring the concept to the affordable level of home audio with three compact active speakers, integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming, and simultaneous support for Alexa and Google voice assistants.

The CE Team at Futuresource Consulting shared some key topics and trends from its latest Global Home Audio Report, revealing how home audio products have returned to strength in Q2 2020. Global home audio products posted an unexpected strong performance in Q2 2020, delivering 20% shipment growth and 10% value growth quarter-on-quarter, according to preliminary results from Futuresource Consulting’s latest quarterly tracker. APAC leads the way, with North America and Western Europe in recovery.

Futuresource Consulting revealed the latest findings from its World Wide Home Audio Report, confirming the worldwide home audio market signaled an increase of 21% in units in 2018, whilst posting revenues of nearly $15 billion, with major contributions from smart speakers to drive the growth. According to Futuresource, the growing presence of entry level smart speakers from Amazon, Google and Chinese brands impacted the overall average price for a home audio device, down by an estimated 12% the end of 2018.

At CES 2018, Harman International announced the launch of JBL LINK View, a voice-controlled, smart display speaker with Google Assistant built in. The LINK View, featuring a high-resolution touch screen and camera, will join the recently launched JBL LINK series of voice-activated speakers. Harman also announced the new JBL Everest Headphone series optimized for Google Assistant, and a new Harman Kardon Allure Portable speaker with Amazon Alexa Voice Service.