New JBL Bluetooth audio options — updates on the popular JBL Flip 7 and Charge 6 portable speakers — bring artificial intelligence-enhanced sound quality and battery life for on-the-go users, the audio giant said last week.

“We’re immersing ourselves in the heart of cultural moments,” said Carsten Olesen, president of Consumer Audio at Harman, which owns JBL. “The introduction of AI Sound Boost highlights our dedication to delivering dynamic solutions that shape the soundtrack of consumers’ lives.”

JBL Flip 7 and Charge 6 portable speakers

JBL unveiled the next generation of two of its most popular portable Bluetooth speakers, giving Apple users new premium audio options for their iOS devices. The refreshed JBL Flip 7 and Charge 6 models feature significant upgrades in sound quality, durability and battery life, making them compelling companions for iPhones and iPads.

AI-enhanced audio performance

An important feature in both new models is JBL’s AI Sound Boost technology, which analyzes audio in real-time to optimize acoustic output. This proprietary technology intelligently adjusts the speaker drivers to deliver more powerful sound without the distortion typically experienced at maximum volume on compact Bluetooth speakers.

For Apple users who demand high-quality audio, both speakers now support high-resolution lossless audio when connected via USB-C cable instead of Bluetooth. That’s perfect for Apple Music subscribers who want to take advantage of the service’s lossless audio offerings.

JBL Flip 7: Compact and rugged

The 35-watt JBL Flip 7 ($149.95) features a more rugged design with an upgraded IP68 waterproof and dustproof rating, making it a great outdoor companion for your iPhone or iPad. The speaker includes an upgraded tweeter with a dome design for clearer and crisper sound at higher volumes.

Battery life has been extended from the previous model’s 12 hours to 14 hours, with the option to extend to 16 hours using the Playtime Boost feature (which reduces bass frequencies to conserve power). The new interchangeable carrying options include both a finger loop and carabiner hook, allowing for easy attachment to backpacks or bike handlebars.

JBL Charge 6: Power bank plus premium audio

The larger, 45-watt JBL Charge 6 ($199.95) lives up to its name with a built-in USB-C power bank functionality, allowing Apple users to charge their iPhones, AirPods, or other devices on the go. The speaker now features an upgraded woofer for deeper bass response and significantly improved battery life—up to 24 hours of regular playback or 28 hours with Playtime Boost enabled.

A new detachable and versatile handle strap has been added, which can be configured either as a wrist strap or as a carrying handle by connecting to both ends of the speaker.

Enhanced connectivity

Both speakers feature up-to-date Bluetooth 5.4 for improved wireless performance with Apple devices and others.

They also support JBL’s Auracast technology, allowing multiple compatible JBL speakers to be synced together for expanded sound. This makes them perfect for Apple users who want to create multi-room audio setups or enhance outdoor gatherings.

JBL Flip 7 and Charge 6 portable speakers: Features and tech specs

JBL Flip 7:

• JBL Pro Sound with AI Sound Boost
• Bluetooth 5.4
• High-resolution lossless audio over wired USB-C connection
• Auracast support for multi-speaker pairing
• IP68-certified water- and dust-proofing rating
• Battery life: Up to 16 hours with Playtime Boost
• Built-in PushLock system with interchangeable carrying accessories

JBL Charge 6:

• JBL Pro Sound with AI Sound Boost
• Bluetooth 5.4
• High-resolution lossless audio over USB-C connection
• Auracast support for multi-speaker pairing
• IP68-certified water- and dust-proofing rating
• Battery life: Up to 28 hours with Playtime Boost
• Detachable carrying strap with multiple configurations
• Built-in USB-C power bank for charging devices

Both the JBL Flip 7 ($149.95) and JBL Charge 6 ($199.95) are available for preorder today at JBL.com, with shipping beginning on April 6. Both models come in six color options: black, blue, white, red, camo and purple. These latest models should land on Amazon soon, too.