Ikea supersized its cheap Bluetooth speaker and added an optical input

Ikea's Badkruka speaker adds an optical audio input, enabling wired connections to TVs and PCs.

Ikea has launched a larger, more expensive Bluetooth speaker in the US called the Badkruka. Priced at $59.99, this speaker stands nearly seven inches tall and is not designed for portability, as it lacks a rechargeable battery and requires a constant power source. It offers audio playback via Bluetooth and supports multi-speaker wireless connectivity for expanded sound coverage, as well as stereo pairing. The Badkruka comes with three EQ modes and Spotify Tap functionality. Notably, it also includes an optical input, allowing it to connect to devices like TVs and PCs with an included TOSLINK cable, distinguishing it from Ikea's smaller Kallsup speaker.

The introduction of the Badkruka suggests Ikea is expanding its audio offerings beyond ultra-portable, low-cost options to cater to users seeking more permanent home audio setups. The inclusion of an optical input, a feature typically found on more dedicated audio equipment, indicates a move towards providing more versatile connectivity for home entertainment systems. This positions Ikea's audio products as potential alternatives to traditional soundbars or smaller component audio systems, especially for consumers prioritizing convenience and aesthetic integration.

This broader approach to home audio could signal a growing trend of mainstream furniture and home goods retailers entering the connected home device market with more feature-rich products. As consumers increasingly seek seamless integration of technology into their living spaces, companies like Ikea are likely to continue developing devices that blend functionality with design, potentially challenging established electronics brands. The Badkruka's blend of wireless convenience and wired connectivity offers a compelling package for a wider audience looking to enhance their home entertainment experience.