LG announces new AI-powered xboom speaker line ahead of CES 2026.

2 hours ago7 min read

In a move that feels less like a simple product launch and more like a statement of creative intent, LG has just pulled back the curtain on a fresh line of its xboom speakers, all set to debut at CES 2026. This isn't just another incremental tech refresh; it's a collection deeply infused with an artistic vision, thanks to an ongoing collaboration with musician and producer will.i. am, who serves as the 'experimental architect.' The partnership is a fascinating case study in blending art and algorithm, where the goal seems to be crafting devices that don't just play music but actively shape the sensory experience of it. The core of this new lineup is a suite of AI features that function like a digital audio-visual curator.Each speaker employs algorithms that listen—not just to the music, but to the room itself, automatically tweaking the equalization to fit the acoustics of your space. It’s a subtle, background intelligence aimed at perfection.More visually striking is the AI-driven ambient lighting system, which promises to translate the mood and rhythm of a song into a dynamic light show, essentially allowing the speaker to paint with light in real-time, turning your listening session into an immersive installation. This focus on adaptive, environmental artistry speaks to a broader trend in tech, where devices are becoming context-aware partners in creativity rather than passive tools.The flagship of this artistic endeavor appears to be the xboom Stage 501, a powerhouse clearly designed for communal celebration. Beyond robust specs like 220W of power and a versatile five-sided cabinet, its party trick is an AI capable of stripping vocals from 'virtually any song' and adjusting pitch on the fly—a karaoke host’s dream and a powerful tool for remix culture enthusiasts.It transforms the speaker from a playback device into a platform for participation and creation. Contrasting this is the rugged, adventure-ready xboom Rock, an upgrade of a previous model now tested to seven military standards.Its rock-like form factor isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it’s a design philosophy prioritizing durability and portability, meant to bring high-fidelity sound into the chaos of the outdoors. Then there’s the minimalist charm of the xboom Mini and the retro-futuristic appeal of the xboom Blast boombox, the latter boasting a staggering 35-hour battery life.Together, they form a portfolio that covers everything from a pocket-sized personal soundscape to a portable block party. While pricing and exact availability remain under wraps until CES, the 2026 release window sets the stage for what will undoubtedly be a crowded field of smart audio.

#LG

#xboom speakers

#CES 2026

#AI audio processing

#will.i.am

#featured