JBL has announced the JBL Horizon 3, a new smart alarm clock. It combines a phone charging station, alarm clock, Bluetooth speaker, and FM radio in one device.
Following up on the Horizon 2 clock, the Horizon 3 offers stereo sound through two 1.5-inch speakers and additional bass with dual passive radiators. It connects using Bluetooth 5.3 and Auracast technology, allowing it to work with other compatible JBL and Harman devices. Users can play music from the Bluetooth or listen to FM radio, all from an alarm that looks incredibly basic and plain.
The Horizon 3 also has customizable lights that let you change the brightness and color to help you sleep and wake up the way you like. It comes with pre-set sounds, like ocean waves, to help you relax. You can set two alarms using the JBL One app, which also lets you control the sound settings and lighting. Plus, there’s a USB-C port to charge other devices.
The company believes its smart features will improve sleep and simplify everyday tasks. However, it’s an alarm clock, which is hard to market when many people use their phones for that same service. There’s also the issue that these features aren’t new or unique.
You can get many of these same features from an Amazon clock for $31.99. The Amazon clock has multiple AC outlets and USB ports, a dimmable LED display, and a dual alarm system. The Amazon alarm only lacks the integrated audio, ambient lights, and Bluetooth of the JBL Horizon 3. So you’d be paying $100 more for those features and likely some smart features. The Amazon clock also has a backup battery, which is normally standard with alarm clocks, but JBL does not mention that its alarm comes with a backup at all. You could also get the Nintendo alarm clock instead for a lot cheaper than the JBL alarm.
The Horizon 3 is designed to look smooth and simple. It has soft, rounded edges and a frosted screen. It has a big, easy-to-use control knob. You can get it in grey or black. The JBL Horizon 3 will be released in May 2025 and cost $129.95 from JBL’s online store and third-party retailers.
Source: JBL
