Nokia, pinoy’s fave handset maker, and Harman, makers of some of the more popular speakers out now, including the sci-fi themed Creature II and see-through Soundsticks speakers, have just inked a partnership to provide Lumia users with better audio products down the road.

And by down the road, I don’t mean after 5 years later. Down the road could actually happen later this year as they’ve already announced their exclusive first treat for Lumia users, the JBL PlayUp Portable Wireless Speaker, which is scheduled to begin shipping before we close the curtain on 2012.

Just like the award-winning Nokia Play 360, this too is another NFC-enabled speaker. Like this but don’t have NFC? No problem ‘cause this also supports Bluetooth, and there’s a standard 3.5mm jack as well for those who prefer to go the wired route.

But here’s where it gets good, price of this one is just €149, or roughly Php2.5K, making it way way cheaper than the Play 360.

Though I have to admit, the Play 360 looks more bad-ass than this NFC speaker from Harman. But hey, for nearly half the price, I’d be more than happy to sacrifice looks, especially if it can deliver the goods.

More info on this upcoming wireless speaker in the presser below:

Nokia and HARMAN partner on development of innovative wireless consumer audio technologies
Exclusive product line debuts with JBL PlayUp Portable Wireless Speaker for Nokia

Nokia and HARMAN, the global leading supplier of premium audio and infotainment systems (NYSE:HAR), today announced a new partnership to develop innovative wireless consumer audio technologies exclusively for the Nokia Lumia range.

Nokia and HARMAN’s JBL brand will jointly develop and co-brand the exclusive line of products which will include a range of speakers delivering room-filling acoustics with dynamic design. Wireless connectivity from mobile device to speaker will be facilitated through Bluetooth technology capable of connecting any existing Lumia phone, or by tapping to connect with NFC for next generation Lumia phone based on Windows Phone 8.

“As HARMAN seeks to further collaborate with mobile leaders to bring next generation connectivity technologies to the home and the automobile, working with industry pioneer Nokia provides a tremendous opportunity to expand our own value sets and bring to market unique audio products that meet today’s demand for uninterrupted consumer connectivity,” said Sachin Lawande, executive vice president of HARMAN and co-president of HARMAN Lifestyle and Infotainment. “Audio is an increasingly mobile experience, following consumers everywhere they go. Developing technologies for wireless portable audio meets the ever-growing demand for immediate and easy accessibility.”

JBL PlayUp Portable Wireless Speaker for Nokia

JBL and Nokia unveiled the first fruits of their collaboration, the JBL PlayUp Portable Wireless Speaker for Nokia, at the IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin.

With innovation at the heart of its development, the JBL PlayUp Portable Wireless Speaker for Nokia radiates sound in all directions. Built on JBL’s passion for audio, the PlayUp Portable is a unique speaker for music lovers who value excellent sound quality, delivering crystal clear sound. With underlying JBL technology that delivers exceptional dynamics, natural tonal balance, clarity and spatial definition, the PlayUp Portable conveys every sonic nuance of the original recording.

It comes with a specially designed bass port which acts as a woofer, ensuring incredible low end sound with minimal audible air turbulence. The PlayUp Portable has a maximum output of 89dB, making it suitable for use outdoors or in any modern indoor interior. The speaker connects easily and wirelessly to any existing Lumia phone via Bluetooth and for next generation Lumia phones based on Windows Phone 8, by tapping to connect with NFC. It also comes with a standard 3.5mm headphone standard audio connector to connect with any mobile phone, computer or MP3 player.

Building on the design of the award-winning Nokia Play 360 Wireless Speaker, the PlayUp Portable makes a statement with its vivid colours and bold shape. Available in cyan, white, black – and the all new bright yellow – its body is built using double-shot plastic for durability. The size and proportions of the speaker, including the minimal number of parts and parting lines, marry Nokia’s highly acclaimed industrial design expertise with JBL’s tightly defined and non-compromising audio target. Featuring more than 10 hours of continuous music with a single charge, the PlayUp Portable features a replaceable battery that’s tucked away at its base. Additional accessories include a carrying pouch, a micro USB charger and a 3.5mm audio cable.

“The JBL PlayUp Portable Wireless Speaker for Nokia is testimony to our long-term strategy of working with the industry’s best to create unbeatable products for consumers, “said Hans Henrik Lund, Vice President and head of Nokia Gear. “With our joint passion for innovation and technology, Nokia and JBL have created a portable speaker for people who really love music and take it with them wherever they go.”

The JBL PlayUp Portable Wireless Speaker for Nokia will start shipping before the end of the year, and is priced at EUR149*.

*Pricing and availability will vary by market

Allan David

Online, Allan’s got you covered as far as news (and some reviews every now and then) goes. Offline, you’ll see him either sweating it out in the badminton courts or dining out in one of the new restos around town. His favorite noodles: cold soba.

email: allan@technoodling.netwebsite: http://oasis1.wordpress.com