It’s only been days since the first Google Assistant enabled smart display went up for order from Lenovo and now we have another contender from JBL. The JBL Link view can be pre-ordered starting today from JBL’s site for $250. It comes with an 8-inch screen and two 10w speakers on either side of the display.
Music your way
Considering the JBL Link View and Lenovo Smart Display are both Google Assistant speakers, they will both have similar features. This includes listening and controlling your music, podcasts, and audiobooks. With the ability to start on one device and continue to another.
Speaking of playing music, you’ll have all the same options you’d find on any other Google Assistant speakers out there. Using voice control you can listen to any of the supported services such as YouTube Music, Pandora, Spotify, iHeartRadio, TuneIn, and more. If you’d rather control from your phone then don’t worry because the JBL Link View has Chromecast and Bluetooth built in as well.
Calls and privacy controls
With the power of Google Duo, you’ll be able to make video calls utilizing the 5MP camera and 8-inch HD touch display on the JBL Link View. Of course, for the more privacy-minded people out there JBL includes a privacy switch that closes the shutter and silences the microphone.
Putting the smart into smart displays
With the power of Google Assistant, you’ll have access to extended weather forecasts, your calendar, morning schedule, and more. Then while idle it can act as a digital photo album showing pictures from your Google Photos stream.
Just because it has a screen doesn’t mean that you’re limited to only using features that utilize it though. The JBL Link View is capable of doing anything any other Google Assistant speaker out there can do with the added benefit of a screen. That includes controlling your smart home, and thanks to the touchscreen you’ll be able to control your Nest thermostat or view your Nest cam.
Videos with rich stereo sound
Thanks to the two 10w speakers and 8-inch HD display watching your favorite videos will sound as good if not better than they look. With Google Assistant you’ll have access to YouTube, HBO Now, Google Play Movies & TV, Crackle, and more to come in the future.
Thanks to the IPX4 rating the JBL Link View is splashproof making it the perfect kitchen companion. You’ll be able to watch recipe videos and follow along without worrying about a little water here or there.
Sizing up the competition
The Lenovo Smart Displays launched in 8-inch and 10-inch models offering two different sizes. While the JBL Link View is only offered in an 8-inch model currently. Instead of different display options, JBL has opted to stick to their strengths and that’s audio.
The JBL Link View might be the perfect option for those of you looking to play music more often than you use the display. Given JBL’s audio prowess and the quality of their JBL Link speakers, the JBL Link View looks to be the better option for music lovers. Taking into account the Lenovo Smart Displays only include one 10w speaker the JBL Link View will certainly be the loudest of the two.
