Samsung Electronics announced three new 360-degree Wireless Audio speaker (R5, R3 and R1 models) which will be displayed at IFA 2015.
The omni-directional speakers feature a new built-in tap-and-swipe user interface and an improved Multiroom app for customers’ smartphones, tablets and smartwatches.
These models follow the widely praised R7 and R6 speakers in Samsung’s Wireless Audio 360 line-up, and offer the same high-quality, balanced sound, and premium table-top design that enables them to fit seamlessly into any home.
“With these additional models we are bringing a new kind of high quality sound to the market, with design that is simple, yet premium, and offers a more intuitive user interface,” said Jurack Chae, Senior Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “The R5, R3 and R1 will help cement Samsung’s position as a world leader in home audio.”
Both consumers and media throughout the world praised the R7 and R6 models, emphasizing how crisp and clear the sound is, and how the detailed mid-range can fill any room, thanks to the proprietary ring-radiator technology that is also featured in the R5, R3 and R1 models.
The R5, R3 and R1 models also exclusively feature new physical control options for a hassle-free and intuitive user experience. Consumers can now change the volume, play, pause, or select a different music source all with a gentle touch, tap or swipe on top of the speaker.
The R5, R3 and R1 models connect with the updated Multiroom App for Android and iOS smartphones and tablets, making it possible to seamlessly share music across Wi-Fi connected devices throughout the home. The app also allows users to easily find and select music, and create playlists all from a single screen.
Samsung’s updated Multiroom app also now works with the Samsung Gear S and will be operated with Samsung’s upcoming smartwatch thanks to a simple user interface that does not depend on a smartphone to operate.
Smartwatch functionality includes immediate control of music playback and volume control, as well as playlist and queue searching. Users can also view the “now playing” screen and access a list of available speakers, all with a simple swipe of their smartwatch.
Samsung has partnered with Qobuz, an online, high-fidelity music service, to make its high resolution streaming services available on Samsung’s audio devices. This gives users access to their favorite audio content at the quality the artists intended. The partnership further demonstrates Samsung’s commitment to giving consumers everywhere, the best possible listening experience.
The new models will be available in the U.S. and European markets in the last quarter of 2015, with prices ranging from US $199 to US $399.
