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JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth speaker gets bigger sound, better battery life, USB-C at CES 2019

The fifth generation of JBL's popular portable Bluetooth speaker offers some performance improvements as well as USB-C charging.

jbl-flip-5
The new JBL Flip 5 in front of the Flip 4. It's really only a little bigger than its predecessor.
David Carnoy/CNET

Lay the JBL Flip 5 next to last year's Flip 4 like I did at this year's CES in Las Vegas and you'll notice that the Flip 5 looks pretty similar but is slightly bigger than its predecessor. That increased size has allowed JBL's engineers to equip the Flip 5 with a larger battery and more power so that it delivers a little bigger sound. It also now has USB-C charging for quicker battery charging.

Like its predecessor, the JBL Flip 5 is fully waterproof, has a buillt-in microphone for speakerphone calls and comes in multiple color options. It'll ship this spring for $100 and should gradually come down in price over the course of the year.

I'll have a full review shortly before it hits stores.

All the new color options.

David Carnoy/CNET

JBL Flip 5 key features

  • Wireless Bluetooth streaming: Wirelessly connect to any smartphone or tablet with Bluetooth
  • Built-in 4800mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery supports up to 12 hours of continuous playtime
  • IPX7 Waterproof: Can be fully submersed in water
  • Improved bass performance
  • USB-C charging
  • Built-in speakerphone allows you to take calls with the touch of a button
  • Price: $100
  • Shipping this spring

Now with USB-C charging!

David Carnoy/CNET
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