I’ve seen a lot of influences for wireless audio products (single-use pill packaging and cassette tapes, for example), but JBL’s Grip is a first. According to JBL, the Grip, a new smallish Bluetooth speaker announced at IFA 2025 that focuses on portability, is modeled after the proportions of a seltzer can. To be honest, my first thought was a tallboy, but maybe that says more about me than it does JBL.
No matter what you think of when you see the Grip, it sounds like a solid Bluetooth speaker on paper. JBL says the Grip has 16W of sound and IP68 water and dust protection, so you don’t have to worry about this thing getting wet. For context, IP68 means this device can be submerged in water up to 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. In keeping with the portability focus, JBL also included a loop on the back panel that you can slide a rope through and tie it to your bike, which you can definitely still ride, given you haven’t drunk too much… seltzer.
© JBL
The Grip also comes with AI Sound Boost, which is meant to give this speaker “more powerful and deeper” bass without causing distortion. For funsies, there’s a light on the back panel, too, which JBL says can be adjusted using its companion app to change the color and brightness. If you’re feeling a little wild, you can also pair the Grip with another speaker via Auracast to use both simultaneously.
One of the biggest downfalls of portable speakers is usually the battery life, since a smaller device usually means a smaller battery, but JBL says its Grip is rated for 12 hours of playback and can get an extra two hours if Playtime Boost is activated. If those estimates are true, that’s not a bad battery life for a speaker in this weight class. The Grip will come in several colors, including white, black, red, blue, and camo, but my personal favorite is the purple one. If you’re in desperate need of an ice-cold beer—I mean, a portable Bluetooth speaker—you can preorder the Grip now for $99.95 or wait for a wider release on Sept. 28. Cheers.