JBL has announced its fall 2025 lineup of Bluetooth speakers, showcasing a range of products designed to cater to diverse listening needs. From the compact, personal-use Grip priced at $150 to the high-energy PartyBox 720 on wheels for $1,650, JBL’s latest offerings promise to deliver enhanced audio experiences. A flagship soundbar system priced at $2,550 also headlines the collection. The new models, available from September 28, feature JBL’s AI Sound Boost technology and Auracast connectivity, which supports multi-speaker setups.
The compact Grip speaker, retailing at approximately $150, is designed for personal use. Standing 6 inches tall and 2.5 inches wide, it comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, purple, red, blue, and camo. Despite its small size, the Grip delivers 16W of power with JBL Pro Sound and AI Sound Boost technology. Its rugged design includes IP68 water and dust protection, making it drop-proof and suitable for outdoor use. Additional features include a rope loop for easy hanging and a customizable LED ambient light strip. The Grip offers a battery life of up to 12 hours, extendable to 14 hours with Playtime Boost, accessible through the JBL Portable App.
Portable Party Sound: Boombox 4
Meanwhile, the Boombox 4, priced at approximately $825, is tailored for portable party enthusiasts. Available in black, blue, and squad camo finishes, it is 12% lighter than its predecessor, the Boombox 3, while offering 50% more power output. Audio enhancements include Bass Boost with Deep Bass and Punchy Bass modes, a third passive radiator, and dual mid-range drivers. The speaker also features a USB-C connection for lossless digital audio. The illuminated JBL logo changes color to indicate when Bass Boost is activated. With a battery life of up to 28 hours, extendable to 34 hours with Playtime Boost, the Boombox 4 is built for endurance. The unit maintains IP68 weather protection for use in various environments.
The PartyBox 720: A Large-Scale Audio Experience
For those seeking a larger audio experience, the standup PartyBox 720 represents JBL’s largest battery-powered speaker, priced at approximately $1,650. It delivers an impressive 800W through two 9-inch woofers and two 30mm dome tweeters. The speaker can operate for 15 hours on battery power, with an additional 2 hours available from just 10 minutes of fast charging. It includes two JBL 600 batteries and features two XLR inputs for microphones, guitars, or DJ consoles. Visual entertainment is provided by synced starry lights and strobe effects. Despite its size, the PartyBox 720 is portable, thanks to wide rear wheels and an integrated handle. The speaker also offers IPX4 splash protection and Auracast multi-speaker connectivity for expanded sound coverage.
Flagship Soundbar: Bar 1300MK2
JBL’s flagship Bar 1300MK2 soundbar, priced at approximately $2,550, is set to ship in October. It delivers 11.1.4-channel sound with 2,470W of power, creating a “personal cinema” experience. The system includes twin detachable Bluetooth rear speakers for authentic surround sound without permanent installation. MultiBeam 3.0 technology projects directional sound beams against room walls, while the bundled subwoofer with dual 8-inch drivers provides deep bass. Support for True Dolby Atmos and DTS:X ensures cinematic audio quality. PureVoice 2.0 uses AI to enhance dialogue clarity without affecting overall volume or immersion. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and Google Cast, with streaming support for Amazon Music HD, Spotify Connect, Roon, and Tidal Connect.
Market Position and Availability
JBL’s comprehensive lineup addresses a variety of use cases and budgets. The Grip competes with the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3, the Boombox 4 challenges the Sony SRS-XG500, the PartyBox 720 rivals the Soundboks 4, and the Bar 1300MK2 competes with the Samsung Q990C. The consistent inclusion of AI Sound Boost and Auracast across the range offers ecosystem benefits for multi-speaker setups, while IP ratings ensure durability across different environments.
While JBL products are widely available in Australia through retailers such as JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, and The Good Guys, local pricing typically includes GST and import costs, potentially adding 10-15% to converted US prices. The September 28 US launch suggests Australian availability by October-November 2025.
As JBL continues to innovate, the integration of AI and multi-speaker connectivity in its new lineup reflects the brand’s commitment to enhancing audio experiences across various settings and preferences. This strategic expansion into diverse product categories underscores JBL’s ambition to maintain its leadership in the competitive audio market.
