Inside the JBL Grip, we can find two powerful racetrack-type, full-range, 43x80mm transducers (remember that this is a fully waterproof design) delivering a level of sound that manages to impress for the size. And yet the JBL Grip remains small enough to hold in one hand. The magic formula is delivered by a combination of powerful DSP and what JBL calls AI Sound Boost, analyzing the sound it generates and incoming reflections in real time, using an algorithm to optimize the output for bigger sound with less distortion. And users can still customize the Grip's sound with a 7-band EQ using the corresponding JBL Portable smartphone app, where they can also select light color options and intensity, receive updates, and find operation instructions.
The bold output (16W RMS) of the Grip also provides more powerful and deeper bass without distortion thanks to the AI Sound Boost feature. And things get to a whole new level when two JBL Grips are paired for stereo sound, or when multiple users connect their own speakers with Bluetooth Auracast to create a larger sound party that can also be calibrated both in terms of sound and the lights to match the vibe and the mood of the moment.
Design-wise, the new JBL Grip expands on the materials and language that made its portable speakers, particularly the JBL Flip, one of the world's best sellers in the category. The JBL Grip is always ready to go with its integrated rope hook, which is easy to attach to a backpack, bike, or kayak. Rugged and ready with its IP68 water, dust, and drop-proof construction, it means that users can enjoy listening anywhere without worries.
The upright design is purposeful, with the JBL logo stacked vertically to match the Grip's bold stance - and subtly tell users that it is the best way to place the speaker for optimal sound, even when hung anywhere. The ambient light on the back panel of the JBL Grip is one of the innovative aspects, creating both a useful location source and creating a nice effect when users adjust the color and intensity to suit the currently selected playlist.
The specifications indicate that the JBL Grip is a Bluetooth 5.4 design that should be good for at least 30 meters of distance (roughly 100 feet or 32.8 yards) between the music source and the speaker. And the Li-ion 10.01Wh battery will provide up to 12 hours of playtime, plus an additional 2 hours with Playtime Boost activated, as the speaker optimizes and tunes the performance for a louder and crisper sound. The USB-C charging delivers a full charge in 3 hours (5V/3A).
"JBL has been the category leader in portable speakers since we launched JBL Flip in 2012. The all-new JBL Grip continues to push the category forward with proof that we’re not standing still as we deliver great sound at a very affordable price. We are excited to add Grip to our lineup, showing once again that there’s a JBL speaker for every moment, every mood, and every budget," says Carsten Olesen, President of Consumer Audio at Harman. "We designed the JBL Grip to handle the bumps and bruises of everyday fun. Along with its waterproof and dustproof IP68 rating, it’s also drop-proof — built to keep playing even after a 1-meter drop onto concrete."
Finnaly, Harman has managed to pursue its sustainability policies in this new product, which is built with post-consumer recycled plastic and fabric for the speaker grille. It's also packaged in FSC-certified paper printed with soy ink.
The JBL Grip is now available for pre-sale at $99.95, with a wide release scheduled for September 28, 2025. Six color options include classic black and white to bold purple, red, blue, and camo.
www.harman.com
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