A lot has changed in the portable speaker industry in just a few years. The preponderance and improvement of Bluetooth connectivity, waterproofing, sound optimization, and even new AI-assisted technologies have made this a dog-eat-dog world for listening devices. Debuting in 2012, the Beats Pill sported a cool design and decent audio quality, tapping into all that Beats by Dre had become known for when they first revolutionized the personal audio game in 2008. The Pill was followed by the Pill+ just a few years later, but in 2022, the entire line was discontinued.
However, we’re pleased to announce that Beats has revived the Pill for 2024 and it boasts some much-needed (and expected) updates.
So What’s New?
With a trio of color options, including matte black, red, and champagne gold, the new Beats Pill is reminiscent of its predecessor but also gets a little sleeker, more lightweight at 24oz, and smaller (8.6” x 2.8”). On the tech side of things, the new Bluetooth speaker also gives you a whole day’s worth of battery power, a new USB-C port, a removable lanyard, and an IP67 water- and dust-proof rating, allowing it to be submerged underwater at 0.5m for up to 30 minutes. There’s also a quick-charge mode for 2 hours of playback after just 10 minutes of charging.
Having owned Beats since 2014, Apple positions the Beats Pill as its de facto Bluetooth speaker (for now at least). As such, the new audio device improves connectivity with Apple devices, offering access to seamless pairing to your iPhone, access to your iTunes library purchases, and integration with the Find My app. Even the physical interface looks like it’s made with Apple-designed buttons. But Android worries need not worry because the new Beats Pill also works with their phones as well.
But How Does It Sound?
Undoubtedly the most important feature of any Bluetooth speaker is audio quality. According to the brand, the new speakers offer a “bigger, bespoke racetrack woofer” with a deeper and fuller bass quality. It does this by pushing through 90% more air, driven by upgraded neodymium magnets. Even at high volumes, the redesign helps to minimize low-end distortion.
Alongside the woofer is a redesigned tweeter for high and mid-range frequencies. Together, they promise to deliver “better tonality across the audio spectrum.” The units are also tilted 20º upwards to optimize the audio’s positioning with your head. While the Beats Pill is a mono speaker device, you can also pair two units together for stereoscopic sound.
Spec Sheet
Battery Life: 24 hours
Dimensions: 8.6” x 2.8”
Weight: 24oz
Connectivity: Bluetooth or USB-C
Charging: USB-C
Pricing & Availability
Available June 27 from various retailers, the new Beats Pill for 2024 is priced at just $150 — $80 cheaper than the previous Pill+ model. Head over to the Beats website to learn more.
Recap
Beats Pill Bluetooth Speaker 2024
Beats revives the Pill Bluetooth speaker for 2024 after years off the market. Updates include an IP67 water-resistance rating, a USB-C port, and 24 hours of battery life.
