JBL a leading audio company is making waves with its new Authentics speaker range. These speakers not only boast a retro-inspired design reminiscent of JBL's iconic L-100 speakers from the 1970s but they also offer exceptional sound quality and support for various streaming services and technologies. However what caught everyone's attention during the hands-on experience was the speakers' ability to run Google Assistant and Alexa simultaneously allowing both voice assistants to listen and respond to commands.

A Milestone Achievement: Alexa and Google Assistant Coexisting on One Speaker

While there have been speakers that support both Alexa and Google Assistant before these voice assistants usually couldn't be active at the same time. JBL's Authentics speakers change that offering an unprecedented level of integration. This breakthrough allows users to have both Alexa and Google Assistant listening for their respective wake words simultaneously. It's a game-changer for those who rely on the functionalities of these popular voice assistants.

During a demonstration of the JBL Authentics 300 which sits between the smaller $329.99 Authentics 200 and the larger $699.99 Authentics 500 it became clear that Alexa and Google Assistant can indeed work together harmoniously. However there are a few caveats to note.

Finding a Balance: Alexa and Google Assistant Working in Tandem

In general voice commands the collaboration between the two voice assistants is seamless. For instance if you ask Google to start playing music Alexa can easily adjust the volume afterwards. Similarly if you start a countdown using Alexa Google won't have any issues silencing the resulting alarm. However things get a bit tricky when dealing with more specific content-related commands.

During the demonstration certain commands specific to the content being played didn't always produce the desired results. For example setting a timer with Google and then asking Alexa to stop it before it finishes might confuse Alexa. It could respond saying that no timers are set. Likewise asking Alexa to read the news and then instructing Google to "stop the news" might lead to Google Assistant saying that nothing's playing at the moment. Finding the right combination of commands requires a bit of trial and error much like when communicating with a voice assistant individually.

Thoughtful Design and Impressive Specs

Beyond the remarkable voice assistant integration the JBL Authentics speakers shine thanks to their thoughtful design and impressive specifications. All three speakers in the lineup feature three dials on top allowing users to adjust volume bass and treble manually. These EQ controls are especially useful when multiple people in the household are using the speaker with only one of them having the JBL companion app installed. Additionally these dials contribute to the speakers' aesthetic appeal harking back to their retro-inspired look.

The most notable retro touch can be seen in the front grille of the speakers which features the same texture as the classic L-100 speakers. Currently only available in black JBL may consider experimenting with other colors such as their signature orange based on the success of the black version.

Enhanced Functionality and Connectivity

In addition to the physical controls JBL's Authentics speakers offer a programmable "moment" button that lets users set their preferred playlist or radio station from the available streaming services within the JBL companion app. While it doesn't extend to services outside the JBL app it provides convenient access to popular options like TuneIn.

Connectivity-wise the speakers support traditional Bluetooth a 3.5mm aux input and Ethernet for wired internet. They also boast compatibility with various streaming services and multi-room systems. AirPlay Alexa Multi-Room Music Spotify Connect and Chromecast built-in are already supported and Tidal Connect will be available through a future firmware update. Additionally JBL plans to release firmware updates that allow users to pair multiple speakers together for stereo and multi-channel surround sound setups.

Impressive Sound Quality and Commitment to Sustainability

At launch events it can be difficult to gauge the true sound quality especially when you're in a crowded room with unfamiliar music. However based on initial impressions JBL's Authentics speakers deliver powerful and immersive sound. Even the smallest model the Authentics 200 has a surprising level of depth while the larger models offer an even more expansive audio experience. The range-topping Authentics 500 equipped with three tweeters three midrange woofers and an active subwoofer provides exceptional sound separation. The other models in the lineup may have fewer drivers and passive radiators but still impress.

Furthermore JBL's commitment to sustainability is worth noting. The Authentics speakers are made using 100 percent recycled fabric 85 percent recycled plastic and 50 percent recycled aluminum. The battery in the Authentics 300 is designed to be easily replaceable aligning with upcoming European Union regulations that prioritize user-replaceable batteries.

The Future of Simultaneous Voice Assistant Compatibility

One burning question remains: Will we see more speakers that offer simultaneous access to both Alexa and Google Assistant in the future? While the collaboration between JBL Google and Amazon has shown promising results it's still considered an experimental feature. Google's Marissa Chacko emphasized that this is the first trial and its success will determine if there's a demand for it.

As JBL Authentics speakers redefine the integration of voice assistants users can look forward to a seamless and immersive audio experience designed with both functionality and sustainability in mind. With the power of Alexa and Google Assistant combined the sky's the limit for future smart speaker innovations.