Philips Izzy line enlivens the competition of Multi-Room speakers

Multi-room system allows users to connect multiple speakers simultaneously via Wi-Fi networks - including the devices in another room - and control them simultaneously. Now the multi-room system is not only applied by Sonos, other manufacturers now start to follow its footsteps, including Philips.

Exhibited in the IFA 2015, Philips Izzy is somewhat different from the traditional multi-room system. Rather than connecting via Wi-Fi networks, Philips Izzy just relies on Bluetooth to establish a multi-room system. Interestingly, it doesn't require special application; the default music player application on smartphone or tablet can be used.

Philips Izzy is actually the same as the standard Bluetooth speakers in general. The difference is, it has the 'Group' button to connect up to four additional Izzy speakers, and then spread the music that comes from the smartphone to every corner of your home.

Philips Izzy line so far only includes two models: BM5 and BM50. BM5 has minimalist and compact shape, but still packs a pair of 2.5-inch drivers to obtain satisfactory sound results. While BM50 is powered by a larger driver and can play music from CD, USB or radio.

Both have a range of about 100 meters in an open condition. Since the connection is using Bluetooth, other factors will certainly also affect the stability, especially the walls that are dividing the rooms. Fortunately, there is an LED indicator on each speaker so that the users can know how strong the signal from one speaker to another.

In Europe and America, Philips Izzy line will be launched around October with prices starting at $ 130 for BM5.