iHome Releases Details About the AirPlay-compatible iW1 Speaker
In early September, we wrote about the upcoming iHome AirPlay wireless speaker system slated for a November release.
This week, iHome has released more details about their upcoming product called iW1, which features a built-in lithium-ion battery with an inductive charging base so you can take it wherever you go, Bongiovi Accoustics audio, and support for iHome’s iOS configuration apps.
Perhaps, iHome can bring some serious competition to the Sonos S5 system. The iHome iW1 is the company’s first AirPlay-compatible system. It’s also the first we’ve seen announced from any manufacturer that offers a built-in rechargeable battery for portability.
The iHome iW1 will work with iHome+apps for easy network setup, device control and firmware updates. This means that you can take advantage of apps like iHome+Radio, which connects you to over 30,000 internet music, talk, sports and news stations from around the world. You could also sync with the iHome+Sleep app and wake to your favorite internet radio stations.
You will be able to enjoy your iTunes music library by using Apple’s free Remote app to wirelessly control your music from your iPad, iPhone or iPod touch. Similar to Sonos S5 Multi-Room Music System, the iHome iW1 allows you to add multiple iW1 speakers throughout your home and with AirPlay enjoy music from any or all of your speakers, simultaneously.
iHome has added some sleek features to the iW1. They spent quite a bit of time reviewing audio quality by adding Bongiovi Acoustics DPS with specially tuned woofers and tweeters with a Class-D amplifier. They also added a row of capacitive touch buttons on top that will provide basic physical controls, and iPhone or iPod owners will have the option of charging directly from a USB port on the back.
Everything so far looks quite good for the iHome iW1. However, the bad news is that pricing and availability details haven’t been released yet. The iW1 seems like a good gadget for the upcoming holiday season, but they better hurry!
