Key Facts
- ✓ Ikea's Kallsup speakers cost $10 (€5 in Europe) each.
- ✓ Designed by Swedish designer and Ikea collaborator Ola Wihlborg.
- ✓ The portable square speaker measures 2.75 x 2.75 x 3 inches.
- ✓ Features include instant Bluetooth pairing and a two-button sequence for adding speakers.
- ✓ The speakers can theoretically be paired up to 100 units.
- ✓ Ikea made its debut at CES this year.
Quick Summary
Ikea has introduced the Kallsup, a new portable Bluetooth speaker priced at $10. The device is designed to be affordable and colorful, targeting a mass market audience.
The speaker is the result of a collaboration with Swedish designer Ola Wihlborg. It features a compact, square design measuring 2.75 x 2.75 x 3 inches. The unit includes small legs on the bottom and a speaker grill on the side.
Key features include instant Bluetooth pairing and the ability to connect multiple speakers simultaneously. Users can pair one speaker to a phone and add others using a two-button sequence. The system theoretically supports up to 100 speakers, though the design team has successfully tested 40 units connected at once.
The Kallsup was unveiled at the CES technology event, where Ikea made its debut this year.
Design and Specifications
The Kallsup speaker features a distinct square form factor. Designed by Ola Wihlborg, the portable unit measures 2.75 x 2.75 x 3 inches, making it small enough to carry easily.
Visually, the speaker is described as cute and colorful. It includes small legs on the bottom, allowing it to stand upright on flat surfaces. A speaker grill is positioned on the side of the unit.
The device is priced at $10 in the United States and €5 in Europe. This pricing strategy positions the Kallsup as a highly accessible audio accessory.
"Challenge accepted!"
— The team at CES
Connectivity and Pairing 📡
The Kallsup utilizes instant Bluetooth pairing technology. This allows for a quick connection to smartphones and other devices.
A standout feature is the multi-speaker connectivity. The pairing process works as follows:
- Pair the first Kallsup to a phone.
- Use a two-button sequence to connect a second Kallsup to the first.
- Repeat the process to add more speakers.
The system is designed to scale significantly. The theoretical maximum for pairing is 100 speakers simultaneously. During testing at the CES event, the design team reported successfully pairing 40 speakers in their office environment.
Market Debut and Availability
The Kallsup made its official debut at CES. This appearance marks a significant milestone as it is Ikea's first year participating in the major technology trade show.
The launch highlights Ikea's expansion into the consumer electronics market. By leveraging its reputation for affordable design, the company aims to offer functional tech products that fit into everyday life. The speaker represents a blend of lifestyle aesthetics and technology utility.
