LG Electronics has expanded its XBOOM by will.i.am speaker lineup ahead of CES 2026, introducing four new AI-powered portable speakers designed for parties, outdoor use, and everyday listening. The new range includes Stage 501, Blast, Mini, and Rock models, each equipped with AI-driven sound processing and integration with will.i.am’s FYI.RAiDiO platform. All models feature extended battery life, adaptive audio calibration, and AI personas that personalize music experiences through two-way conversations.
What’s New in the 2026 Lineup
The four new XBOOM speakers target distinct use cases with tailored features:
XBOOM Stage 501: LG’s flagship party speaker delivers up to 220W power when plugged in and 160W on battery. It features a swappable 99Wh battery offering 25 hours of playback, AI Karaoke Master for vocal removal and pitch adjustment, and a five-sided cabinet for flexible placement.
XBOOM Blast, Mini, and Rock: These models cater to outdoor, portable, and rugged environments respectively, though LG has not disclosed detailed specifications for these three.
All models integrate AI Sound (automatic EQ adjustment), AI Lighting (multicolored bar lights synced to music), and Space Calibration Pro technology that analyzes acoustics and optimizes output for indoor or outdoor settings.
FYI.RAiDiO Integration and AI Personas
The 2026 lineup features built-in access to will.i.am’s FYI.RAiDiO platform, which offers ten AI personas and DJs for interactive playlist curation. Users can hold two-way conversations with these AI hosts to personalize music selection based on mood, activity, or genre preferences. Lee Jeong-seok, head of LG’s Audio Business, called the integration part of the company’s “vision for intelligent, expressive sound” as portable audio becomes a growth driver for 2026. will.i.am described the feature as “turning sound into a living, learning experience” that connects users through shared musical interests.
Why It Matters for Portable Audio
LG’s expansion signals a shift toward AI-first portable speakers that adapt to listening contexts rather than simply increasing volume. The AI Karaoke Master on Stage 501 eliminates the need for special karaoke files or subscriptions, potentially disrupting the home entertainment speaker category. Space Calibration Pro addresses a longstanding challenge in portable audio sound quality degradation in different environments by automatically tuning output to match room acoustics or outdoor spaces. For consumers, this means speakers that optimize performance without manual EQ adjustments, though real-world effectiveness depends on app reliability and pricing competitiveness.
Availability and What’s Next
LG will formally unveil the expanded XBOOM by will.i.am lineup at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, with global rollout planned for 2026. Pricing and specific regional availability remain undisclosed. The company has not confirmed release dates for individual models or announced pre-order windows. Based on LG’s 2025 launch pattern, pricing details and purchase options will likely be revealed during or immediately after the CES presentation.
Featured Snippet Boxes
What models are included in the new LG XBOOM by will.i.am lineup?
The 2026 lineup adds four models: Stage 501 (flagship party speaker with 220W power and 25-hour battery), Blast, Mini, and Rock (designed for outdoor and portable use). All feature AI sound processing and FYI.RAiDiO integration.
What is FYI.RAiDiO on LG XBOOM speakers?
FYI.RAiDiO is will.i.am’s AI platform that provides ten interactive personas and DJs. Users hold two-way conversations with AI hosts to curate playlists based on mood, activity, or preferences, creating personalized music experiences.
When will the new LG XBOOM speakers be available to buy?
LG plans a global rollout in 2026 following the CES 2026 unveiling in Las Vegas. Specific release dates and pricing have not been announced.
What AI features do the 2026 XBOOM speakers have?
All models include AI Sound (automatic EQ based on content), AI Lighting (music-synced visual effects), and Space Calibration Pro (acoustic analysis and output adjustment). Stage 501 adds AI Karaoke Master for vocal control.
