Urbanista, a Swedish audio brand, has introduced the Malibu, a solar-charging wireless Bluetooth speaker. This portable speaker utilizes a small solar panel to recharge its battery when exposed to outdoor or indoor light. Once charged, the battery can last a full day, depending on the amount of light exposure between listening sessions. The speaker also features a USB-C port for regular charging.
The Urbanista Malibu offers various features expected from a Bluetooth speaker, including a durable design and IP67 rating for full waterproofing and protection against dust, dirt, and sand. An accompanying Urbanista app allows users to monitor battery levels, access historical data, and customize the sound profile using a fully adjustable EQ band. It’s also possible to link two Malibu speakers for stereo sound, suitable for parties and outdoor gatherings.
The Urbanista Malibu is available in Midnight Black and Desert Grey and is priced at £149 / $149. While Australian availability hasn’t been confirmed yet, it is expected to be released soon. Urbanista utilizes Exeger’s Powerfoyle solar cells, making it an efficient way to charge the speaker. This is the first light-powered portable speaker from Urbanista, although the brand has previously released solar tech in its Los Angeles headphones and Phoenix earbuds. Unlike some other solar-powered devices, the Malibu’s battery may not be recharged while in use, so the continuous listening time may vary.
