LG Electronics has introduced its 2026 XBOOM speaker collection in preparation for the CES trade show in Las Vegas. The new lineup includes the XBOOM Go (models XG2 and XG8) for portable use and the larger XBOOM XL (models XL5 and XL9) designed for high-output environments. These units feature hardware improvements focused on acoustic clarity, battery efficiency, and environmental resistance.
Let’s take a look at what LG has cooked with this new lineup –
- The XBOOM Go series consists of compact Bluetooth speakers intended for mobile use. The XG8 model is the flagship of this sub-series and incorporates several hardware updates:
- The speaker uses a track-type woofer made from carbon fiber to reduce distortion at high volume levels. It also includes two dome tweeters for high-frequency reproduction.
- Both the XG2 and XG8 carry an IP67 rating. This certification indicates that the devices are fully protected against dust ingress and can withstand submersion in water up to one meter deep for 30 minutes.
- The XG8 provides up to 15 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. It supports fast charging via USB-C, allowing for several hours of use after a short charging interval.
- The XG8 includes an integrated adjustable strap for transport, while the smaller XG2 features a built-in string for attachment to backpacks or outdoor gear.
The XBOOM XL5 and XL9 are large-format “party” speakers designed for maximum sound pressure levels. These models are intended for large gatherings and outdoor events.
The flagship XL9 model utilizes a 2.1-channel system featuring an 8-inch woofer and two 2.5-inch tweeters. A “Dynamic Bass Optimizer” circuit adjusts the low-frequency output automatically to maintain tonal balance when the volume is turned down. For visual feedback, the XL9 includes a “Pixel LED” panel that displays animations, text, or visualizers. Both models in the XL series have built-in wheels and a telescopic handle to facilitate movement despite their increased weight.
Now that we have taken a peek at the hardware, let’s quickly talk about the software and the connectivity integrations.
LG has updated the XBOOM mobile application for iOS and Android to support the 2026 hardware. The application provides several control functions:
- Wireless Party Link: This feature allows users to connect up to 10 compatible LG speakers together to play the same audio source simultaneously.
- Lighting Customization: Users can adjust the colors and patterns of the integrated LED rings and pixel panels to sync with the tempo of the music.
- Equalizer Profiles: The app includes preset profiles for different genres and a manual five-band equalizer for custom tuning.
- DJ Features: The XL series supports a “DJ Mode” within the app, allowing users to apply sound effects like flangers, phasers, and loopers during playback.
The 2026 XBOOM lineup utilizes Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless connectivity, providing a more stable connection and lower power consumption compared to previous versions. The larger XL series speakers also include physical inputs for professional use. These include a standard 6.35mm microphone input and a dedicated guitar input, each with independent volume and gain controls. This allows the speakers to function as portable public address (PA) systems or amplifiers for musicians.
For those of you who want to get a hands on feel of this new lineup, LG will display the full XBOOM 2026 lineup at its booth during CES from January 6 to January 9. While the company has not yet released the final retail pricing for each model, the speakers are expected to go on sale in North American and European markets during the first quarter of 2026. These products are positioned to compete with established wireless speaker brands such as JBL and Sony in the consumer audio market.
