Ultimate Ears, a brand known for its range of portable audio devices under the Logitech umbrella, has expanded its lineup with the release of the Ultimate Ears Miniroll. This new addition is designed to be the most portable speaker in their current collection, emphasizing convenience, durability, and a versatile design suitable for various outdoor activities.
The Ultimate Ears Miniroll stands out for its compact and lightweight design, making it a highly portable option for users on the move. Weighing just 279 grams (approximately 9.8 ounces) and measuring just over four inches in diameter, the Miniroll is crafted to be effortlessly carried and easily attached to various objects.
“The Miniroll started with a consumer ask: they wanted a speaker that could strap in and go anywhere to keep up with their active lifestyles," says Jonah Staw, UE's general manager. "This led our design and engineering teams to build our most portable speaker, showing how passionate consumers can drive innovation.”
One of its key features is a removable and replaceable silicone strap that allows users to attach the speaker securely to items like bike handlebars, bag straps, or even a belt loop. This feature provides flexibility for users who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or climbing, where hands-free audio solutions are beneficial.
Engineered for outdoor use, the Miniroll boasts an IP67 rating, ensuring that it is both waterproof and dustproof. This rating makes the speaker suitable for rugged conditions, whether on a sandy beach or a dusty trail. However, unlike some other Ultimate Ears speakers, like the Wonderboom, the Miniroll does not float, so users should be cautious when using it around bodies of water.
Despite this, its durability is improved by its drop resistance, which makes it capable of withstanding falls from up to four feet, which adds to its appeal as a reliable companion for adventurous users.
The main feature of the Miniroll is its integration of Bluetooth Auracast technology. This feature allows the Miniroll to connect with an unlimited number of additional Miniroll speakers, creating an expansive audio experience through what Ultimate Ears calls the "PartyUp" mode. However, it is worth noting that this mode is exclusive to Miniroll speakers and does not extend to other Ultimate Ears products or Auracast-capable devices from different brands.
The Ultimate Ears Miniroll comes with a rechargeable battery that offers up to 12 hours of playback on a full charge. This battery life is competitive, aligning with other similar-sized portable speakers in the market.
The device uses a USB-C port for charging, which has become the standard for many portable electronics due to its efficiency and ease of use. A notable feature is the "wet charging" warning system that alerts users if they attempt to charge the device while its port is wet, adding an extra layer of safety and functionality.
Ultimate Ears has also considered environmental impact in the design of the Miniroll. The speaker’s shell incorporates 100% post-consumer recycled polyester fabric, and at least 40% of its plastic components are sourced from recycled materials. Additionally, the packaging uses paper from FSC-certified forests and other controlled sources, which supports the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
The Ultimate Ears Miniroll is available in four colors: black, blue, gray, and pink, offering a range of options to suit different tastes. It retails for $80, making it a competitive alternative to other portable Bluetooth speakers in the market, such as the JBL Clip 5 and the Tribit Stormbox Micro 2, and is available exclusively through Ultimate Ears’ official website as well as Logitech’s online store, starting September 9.
