Latest news with #BluetoothSpeakers
Gizmodo
5 days ago
- Business
- Gizmodo
JBL Go 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Drops to Black Friday Pricing as Amazon Clears Out Stock
Bluetooth speakers are amazing to have. If you're looking to keep the mood up while you study or clean, enjoy some tunes as you relax in the evening, or even keep up with an audiobook while you have a bath, they can do it all. While some of them can be pricey, you can get some amazing options for way less than you should if you get them while they're on sale. JBL is one of the best around in that sense, and right now you can nab the JBL Go 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker for just $40. That's 20% off the usual price of $50. That's a nice discount, and it makes this great value for money. This is a limited-time deal though, which does mean it could end at any time. See at Amazon Portable Bluetooth speakers are just really handy to have. The ones that are waterproof (like this one) are even better, because you can have them in the bathroom or even near the pool with no problems. If you're trying to disconnect from screens, but silence is a no-go, then a speaker like this can really help by letting you enjoy music, audiobooks, or even podcasts with no issues, and you can even carry it around with you as you move through your home. The JBL GO 4 has loads of great features. First up, the sound quality is far better than you'd expect from such a small speaker. It can still hit rich highs and some pretty deep bass notes, which is always good if you're someone who likes to listen to a wide range of music. It also comes in a range of colors, although it's only the camo one that's currently down to $40. It has a battery life of up to 7 hours, but you can actually get an extra two hours if you use the Playtime Boost feature, which will come at the cost of some sound. It's also waterproof and dustproof, with an IP67 rating, which means that it's sturdy enough to thrive in any environment. You can even connect two of these at once to enjoy a more stereo experience, just in case you already own one or want a clear path to an upgrade in the future. We love the JBL GO 4, and we're happy to see it on sale for just $40. The deal won't last forever though, so if you want it at this price, make sure you snap it up soon. See at Amazon
CNET
5 days ago
- Business
- CNET
Get the Party Started With $100 Off the Sonos Move 2 Speaker
There's no shortage of Bluetooth speakers on the market, but not all of them are worth your money. If you're looking for a portable speaker that offers a mix of great audio and dynamic bass, the Sonos Move 2 is an excellent option to consider, especially with the current discount. Right now, you can grab this efficient speaker for just $349 at Amazon, after an impressive 22% discount. That's a massive $100 discount available on both white and black models, but it might not be around for long, so hurry while you can. In his review, our audio expert David Carnoy praised the speaker's improvements over its predecessor, awarding it a CNET score of 8.3/10. You get a two-tweeter acoustic architecture that replaces the prior model's single tweeter sound system. It features a precision-tuned woofer to provide high-quality audio with a deep, dynamic bass. The second iteration of the Sonos Move also has a longer battery life, with up to 24 hours of playback time on a single charge. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. The speaker has an integrated handle, making it easy to take with you throughout the house or out to the beach. At 6.61 pounds, it's got some weight to it but is still relatively portable. It's quite durable, with drop resistance and water resistance, so you can use it out by the pool to enjoy some music while you swim or host a party. Why this deal matters Sonos Move 2 has a modest, minimal design and offers excellent sound quality. It's a great speaker even at its retail price, but with the deal dropping it down to less than $350, it's an absolute steal. Just note that the discount is available for a limited-time, so you might want to act fast.
Yahoo
06-08-2025
- Yahoo
A 'very low' number of original Sonos Roam speakers are overheating
Sonos is having overheating issues with a "very low" number of its Roam speakers. Bloomberg reports that some users' portable Bluetooth speakers are overheating around the device's USB-C port. The company has not recalled any products as a result but it aware of the issue happening. "We've closely tracked a limited number of reports involving the USB-C charging connection on some first-generation Sonos Roam speakers," Sonos said in a statement shared with Engadget. "While the overall incidence rate is very low, and environmental conditions appear to play a role, we've taken several proactive steps to even further reduce the likelihood of this issue, including software updates and accessory improvements." The issue appears to be centered on the original model of the Sonos Roam that debuted in 2021; the Sonos Roam 2 offered some upgrades over that version when it rolled out last spring.
The Sun
05-08-2025
- The Sun
5 Best Bluetooth trackers
WE all lose stuff, but Bluetooth trackers can make things a whole lot easier. Whether it's your keys, wallet, bag, or even keeping tabs on loved ones, the best Bluetooth trackers help you stay connected to what matters. Sometimes, it's just about peace of mind, knowing your bag's right where you left it, or that your wallet didn't end up in the back of a cab. That kind of peace of mind is exactly what Bluetooth trackers are made for, which is why they're so popular for travel, helping you keep tabs on your essentials without the stress. I've tested a range, from budget tags to sleek, feature-packed options that fit neatly into wider ecosystems. The latest models offer smarter alerts, broader community tracking, and tighter integration with your phone. That said, not all of them are created equal. Some feel limited for the price, while others quietly over-deliver. And if you're into wireless gear that's built for on-the-go, I've also tested the best Bluetooth speakers. Read on for my pick of the best Bluetooth trackers I've tested, and how they held up in everyday life. How I tested I tested a mix of Bluetooth trackers, from affordable picks to well-known brands, using them over several days and weeks. I wasn't precious with them, tossing them in bags and to zippers, to get a feel for how robust they are. The focus was on how quickly and accurately each one could be located using its app, both nearby and at a distance, and what location features each uses to get you to your items. Setup was also important, along with how user-friendly the features were and whether the trackers lived up to their claims. Best Bluetooth trackers - tried and tested Tile Starter Pack (Mate & Slim) 6 Tile Starter Pack (Mate & Slim), £49.99 from Amazon BUY HERE Pros: Easy to set up, intuitive app, works on both iOS and Android, strong crowd-finding network Cons: Non-replaceable batteries, key features require subscription Rating: 8/10 If you want reliable, cross-platform tracking, the Tile Starter Pack is a great buy. You get a Tile Mate for keys and a Slim for your wallet, both of which are easy to set up through the Tile app. Once you download the Tile app, setup is straightforward, and the app is well-designed, letting me ring my phone, check last seen locations, and even crowd-locate lost items through the Tile network. It works with both iOS and Android, plus Alexa and Google Assistant, so it's flexible across platforms. The Mate is small, which I loved, and built for keyrings, while the Slim is credit-card thin and slides neatly into a wallet or passport holder. Both are lightweight and easy to forget they're even there, until you need them. One big downside, though, is that the batteries in both are non-replaceable. The Mate and Slim last up to 3 years, but once they die, you'll need to buy new ones. That's a major drawback, especially when other trackers let you just swap the battery out. In terms of range, it can now ring from over 100m away, and the beeper is one of the loudest I tested, so it took no time to locate. I also appreciated the QR codes on the back of each tracker, so if someone finds your items, they can scan them to see your contact info, without needing the app themselves. That said, it's just a shame that smart alerts, like notifying you when you've left something behind, are locked behind a £2.99 subscription. All in, the Starter Pack is a smart pick if you want dependable tracking across platforms, but the non-replaceable batteries make it feel a bit disposable. Compatibility: iOS and Android, Battery life: Up to 3 years (non-replaceable), Smart features: Community tracking, IP rating: Water-resistant (not fully waterproof) Groov-e My Tag Groov-e My Tag, £17.99 £13.10 at Amazon BUY HERE Pros: Very affordable, lightweight and compact, runs on a replaceable battery, and easy to attach to keys or bags. Cons: Slightly larger than expected, not the loudest Rating: 8.5/10 If you want a solid, no-frills tracking device, the Groov-e My Tag is it, especially at this price point. It works via Apple's Find My network on iOS, which was a big plus for me since I didn't have to mess around with third-party apps. Setup was quick, and it pairs just like a native Apple device, popping up on screen for instant linking. I felt much more confident in its accuracy, knowing it's fully integrated with the iOS system. Physically, it's a bit larger than I expected, but it's super lightweight and doesn't feel bulky on a keyring or in a bag. The rubberised finish also feels surprisingly tough, like it's built to handle daily knocks and scrapes. In terms of features, it covers the basics well. You can make it play a sound if your keys are nearby but hiding, and the 'last seen location' via Find My is genuinely handy. Thanks to Apple's Find My network, it offers precise location tracking, I could see exactly where my item was last detected and even get directions to it when needed. Battery-wise, it runs on a replaceable CR2032 coin cell, and you'll probably get close to a year out of it, depending on how much you use it. When it runs out, it's easy to swap in a new one, so no need to fork out for a whole new tracker, which is always a win. All in all, if you're just after a straightforward, affordable tracker for your keys or bag, the Groove My Tag is worth a look Its beeper isn't the loudest, but it does exactly what you need, and the fact that it works with Apple's Find My makes it a cut above most budget options. Apple AirTag Mini Apple AirTag Mini, £35 £28 at Amazon Pros: Seamless with iOS, compact, replaceable battery, accurate tracking, reliable alerts, water resistant Cons: Battery could last longer, iOS only, relies on nearby iPhones when out of range Rating: 8/10 I bought a pack of four Apple AirTags during a Black Friday sale a couple of years ago, and they've served me well ever since. I mainly use them to track my baggage at the airport, which gives me peace of mind knowing my bags have arrived at the same destination as me. I also have friends who pop them into their kids' pockets when we're in busy public places, just in case someone wanders off. The trackers are small and compact, making them easy to slip into just about anything you want to keep tabs on. If you're an iPhone user, setup is really straightforward, just hold the AirTag near your phone and it automatically detects it. You can then give it a name and start tracking via the Apple Find My app. I believe it works with iPads too, though I haven't tested that myself. The Find My app includes a 'Find' feature that gives you clear directions to your AirTag, which I've found to be accurate and reliable. You can also make it play a sound to help locate it. If your AirTag is more than nine meters (30ft) away, it uses Bluetooth signals from other nearby iPhones to help locate it, which works best in busier areas. Battery life is about a year. I wish it lasted a bit longer, especially compared to some other trackers, but replacing it is simple and hassle-free. You can buy Apple AirTags individually (RRP £35) or in a four-pack (RRP £119), which offers better value. They're also often discounted during sales, so it's worth keeping an eye out for deals. Chipolo POP Chipolo POP, £30 from Amazon BUY HERE Pros: Works with both iOS and Android, bright and easy to spot, loud ring, compact and durable, replaceable battery Cons: Slightly pricey for the feature set, no precision tracking Rating: 7.5/10 The Chipolo POP is a cheerful, compact tracker that blends simplicity with smart design. I liked that it connects seamlessly with Apple's Find My: just pair it like any other Apple device, and it pops up right away in the Find My app. It also works with Android devices, making it one of the few truly cross-platform trackers out there. That's a big win if you use both platforms or share items with family on different devices. Design-wise, it's light, slim, and brightly coloured, which genuinely makes it easier to spot when you've misplaced it. The ring is one of the loudest tested, at about 120 dB, which easily cuts through background noise or couch cushions. The battery lasts about a year and is replaceable (CR2032), which is always good to see. If you install the optional Chipolo app, you unlock extras like calling your phone, custom ringtones, and even a selfie button, nice touches, though not essential if you're just using Apple's Find My. There's also a handy out-of-range alert via the app, which gives you a nudge if you accidentally leave your keys or bag behind. That said, I do think it's a little pricey for what it offers, especially given there's no precision tracking like you'd get with other trackers in this price bracket. You're mostly paying for the cross-platform support and ease of use here. Compatibility: iOS and Android, Battery life: Around 1 year (replaceable CR2032 battery), Smart features: Out-of-range alerts, call your phone feature via app, IP rating: IP55 (splash-proof, not fully waterproof) Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 BUY HERE Pros: Excellent precision finding, replaceable battery life, handy timeline history Cons: Samsung-only, no broader Android support Rating: 8/10 If you're already in the Samsung ecosystem, the Galaxy SmartTag2 is easily one of the best Bluetooth trackers out there. It's designed exclusively for Samsung Galaxy devices, so I had to borrow a relative's Galaxy S22 to test it. Unfortunately, it won't work with non-Samsung Android phones or iPhones, which is something to keep in mind. To get started, just download the SmartThings app, pair the tag, and you're up and running in seconds. Physically, it feels sturdy and well-made, with a practical, ring-shaped design that clips easily onto keys or bags. It's also IP67 rated, so it can handle dust and water without issue. Like other trackers, the battery is a standard CR2032 coin cell, which is replaceable and should last over a year. One feature I really appreciated was the timeline view, which shows everywhere your tag has been over the past few days. It's a surprisingly useful touch that not many trackers offer. What really sets the SmartTag2 apart is SmartThings Find, Samsung's answer to Apple's Find My. It similarly taps into nearby Galaxy devices anonymously to help locate your tag. Once you're close, Compass View kicks in to guide you with on-screen directions. If you've already got a Galaxy phone, the SmartTag2 is a great buy. But if you're not in that ecosystem, it's a non-starter, it won't work with other devices, which limits its appeal. Compatibility: Samsung only, Battery life: Up to a year (replaceable), Smart features: Precision tracking, crowd-finding, location history IP rating: IP67 (waterproof) Best Bluetooth trackers FAQs Where to buy Bluetooth trackers You can pick up Bluetooth trackers online through retailers like Amazon, Argos, and Currys, or directly from brands. They're often discounted during major sales like Prime Day and Black Friday, so it's worth keeping an eye out. What is the best Bluetooth tracker? It depends on your device. If you're an iPhone user, Apple's AirTag offers the best integration and precision. For Samsung Galaxy users, the SmartTag2 is the one to buy, and only pairs with the Samsung ecosystem. If you want something more universal, the Chipolo or Tile trackers are solid cross-platform options, not tying you into one device. How accurate is Bluetooth location tracking? When you're nearby, most trackers can pinpoint your item within a few feet, especially those with ultra-wideband (UWB) like AirTags or SmartTag2. Once out of Bluetooth range, they rely on a wider network of nearby devices to update the location, which can vary in accuracy depending on how busy the area is. How far can a Bluetooth tracker go? Bluetooth range typically tops out around 100–120 metres in open spaces, but walls and obstacles can reduce that. Beyond that, trackers like AirTags or Tiles rely on their respective networks (Find My, SmartThings, or Tile Network) to help locate your item. Are tracking devices safe? Yes, Bluetooth trackers are generally safe.
CNET
11-07-2025
- Business
- CNET
My Favorite Bluetooth Speaker Is Over 35% Off on the Final Day of Prime Day
With many of us worried about tariffs raising prices on electronics, Amazon Prime Day seems like the perfect time to scoop them up. That includes the Anker Soundcore Boom 2, which is now available in the black model on sale for $90, or 36% off, at Amazon for Prime members. I awarded the Soundcore Boom 2 a CNET Editors' Choice among the list of best Bluetooth speakers because it's well-priced and delivers impressive sound, making it an excellent value. There are plenty of Bluetooth speakers to choose from but the Soundcore Boom 2 stands out for its compact, waterproof design and great value for the money. Compared with its competitors, this mini boom box speaker is already a good deal at its list price of $140. But for under $100, this is an excellent Prime Day deal. A reminder that today is the last day of the Amazon Prime Day sale, so this offer is on borrowed time. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. I liked the original Soundcore Motion Boom, which made our list of the best Bluetooth speakers and was one of the better mini boom box Bluetooth speaker values in the past few years. It's also on sale for $70 for Prime Day. The 3.66-pound Boom 2 is priced a little higher but sounds substantially better, with more than double the power rating of the original, so it not only plays louder but kicks out more bass and offers better clarity at higher volumes (it's equipped with two tweeters and one subwoofer). It also has a couple of built-in LED lights to help create that party vibe. Looking for more? Don't miss the other Anker deals you can snag during Prime Day today. Anker Soundcore Boom 2 speaker specs Here are the details about this mini boom box Bluetooth speaker. Drivers: 50-watt, 4-inch racetrack subwoofer and dual 15-watt tweeters 50-watt, 4-inch racetrack subwoofer and dual 15-watt tweeters Dimensions: 11.65 x 7.28 x 3.98 inches 11.65 x 7.28 x 3.98 inches Weight: 3.66 pounds 3.66 pounds Battery life: Up to 24 hours at moderate volume levels Up to 24 hours at moderate volume levels Bluetooth version: 5.3 (100-foot or 30-meter wireless range) 5.3 (100-foot or 30-meter wireless range) Water-resistance rating: IPX7 (fully waterproof and floatable) IPX7 (fully waterproof and floatable) Additional features : Built-in light show, customizable EQ, PartyCast 2.0 (link additional Anker speakers) : Built-in light show, customizable EQ, PartyCast 2.0 (link additional Anker speakers) Universal remote: Included Roku remote controls most TVs Why I like this Anker speaker The speaker's design isn't sleek or eye-catching but it's attractive enough and just the right size -- neither too big nor too small -- and you can choose among three colors, although only the black model is available for the Prime Day deal. It also seems pretty durable, although it doesn't have a dust-resistance rating. The Boom 2 is fully waterproof (IPX7-rated) and floats should it fall into a body of water. Additionally, there's a USB-out port to charge your devices. Battery life is also good. The speaker's rated for up to 24 hours of playback at moderate volume levels (it charges via USB-C, which is good) and you can tweak the sound and customize the lighting with the Soundcore app for iOS and Android. Battery life does dip if you engage the bass boost or activate the LED lighting. Read more: Anker Soundcore Boom 2 Review Another Anker speaker to consider If you're looking for even more powerful sound, Anker makes the Soundcore Boom 2 Plus. A bigger speaker, it puts out more sound with similar features to the Boom 2. However, it costs around $250 (on sale for $175), and I don't think it sounds twice as good as the Boom 2 (more like 25% to 30% better). Still, it's also a good value. Read more: Best Tech Gifts Under $100 Want to check out the competition? We've tested and reviewed the best Bluetooth speakers this year, with Bose, Beats and Soundcore all featured on our list. And just in case you're on the hunt for more discounts, our dedicated shopping team at CNET has compiled the best Prime Day deals. Why this deal matters The Anker Soundcore Boom 2 is already a great deal as one of our top choices for a compact Bluetooth speaker. Summer is the perfect time to pick one up for all your get-togethers, and the Soundcore Boom 2's waterproof design makes it ideal for the beach or pool. With electronics prices likely to rise with the looming tariffs, the Prime Day deal maybe your best chance to score this speaker for under $100.
