LG Xboom Speakers Under Review: Created in Collaboration with will.i.am and a Touch of Artificial Intelligence.
LG will partner with will.i.am to launch three distinct portable speakers. We had the opportunity to listen to a demonstration at the CES 2025 fair.
LG has announced the results of its collaboration with will.i.am, who has been designated as its "Experiential Architect" ahead of CES 2025. This joint effort focuses on the development, design, and marketing of the xboom audio line. This time, the xboom Bounce, Grab, and Stage 301 speakers were presented, along with the xboom Buds.
The xboom Grab is the smallest of the speakers showcased, featuring a cylindrical design and a lighting system at the base. Its controls for power, volume adjustment, play/pause, and Bluetooth connectivity are located on the top. This model is designed to be portable, fitting into a cup holder and equipped with straps that allow it to be tied to objects. Additionally, it has an IP67 rating, making it resistant to water and dust, and it has also passed the military durability test 810G. Its battery provides up to 20 hours of use. During the demonstration, its ability to produce a good level of bass was highlighted, although the bass sound seemed slightly muted.
Next in line is the xboom Bounce, which features passive radiators that light up to the rhythm of the music. LG claims that this model delivers "precise highs and an expanded soundstage," thanks to its radiators and dome tweeters. Like the Grab, it also has an IP67 rating and has passed durability tests. It offers up to 30 hours of battery life. This speaker stands out for its robust bass that does not overshadow the higher frequencies, making it the favorite in the demonstration in terms of audio performance, even though the pulsing lights may not be to everyone's liking.
Lastly, there is the xboom Stage 301, a speaker geared towards performances and karaoke, which includes a 6.5-inch woofer and two 2.5-inch mid-range drivers. It generates 120 watts of sound in 2.1 channels and has a wedge design reminiscent of a stage monitor. While its water resistance rating is IPX4, it allows for battery replacement, offering up to 11 hours of use. This speaker is presented as an alternative to similar models from brands like JBL and Sony, highlighting its powerful sound and accessible control panel on top.
All new xboom speakers come with a special button to connect to will.i.am's RAiDiO.FYI platform, which provides personalized content from a smart radio host. They also incorporate various artificial intelligence features, such as AI Sound, which automatically adjusts content, AI Lighting, which synchronizes lighting with music, and AI Calibration, which helps the speakers adapt to their environment. They also allow the use of Auracast to connect multiple units in Party Link mode without the need for an app.
As for the xboom Buds, these active noise-canceling earbuds feature graphene drivers and an ergonomic design that promises increased comfort. The battery offers 10 hours of use per charge, plus two additional charges from the case. The price and availability of these new products have yet to be announced, but LG has indicated that they will be available later this year.