In 2006, Dr Dre—Andre Romell Young—launched Beats Electronics alongside fellow record executive Jimmy Iovine. Known for his prowess as a rapper and record producer, Dre’s involvement brought instant credibility to the brand, especially in the sound quality department. Beats’ headphones quickly became a go-to choice for music lovers, leading to a landmark acquisition by Apple in 2014 for $3.2 billion, cementing Dre’s position as hip-hop’s first billionaire. This background helps us understand why Beats remains a key player in Apple’s ecosystem, with high expectations attached to its products.
One of Beats’ most iconic products, the Beats Pill speaker, is back on the market after being discontinued in 2022. The portable Bluetooth speaker, shaped like its name suggests—a capsule—has returned with a sleek new design, powerful sound, and a host of features. Available in five colours—Champagne Gold, Statement Red, Dark Gray, Light Gray, and Matte Black—the Beats Pill retails in India for Rs 16,900.
In terms of design, the Beats Pill is both stylish and practical. The pill-shaped form factor provides stability when placed on desks and tables, while the easy-to-access USB-C charging port at the back adds convenience. The USB-C port not only powers up the device but also supports high-resolution audio playback when connected to an output device via a USB-C cable. This makes the Pill a versatile choice for audiophiles looking to get the most out of their portable speaker.
The Beats Pill offers a battery life of up to 24 hours, making it ideal for extended use whether at home or on the go. Furthermore, it boasts an IP67 rating, meaning it’s both dustproof and waterproof. This rating ensures that the Pill can handle a variety of environments, whether you’re taking it on an outdoor adventure or simply using it in a busy home office. In testing with various iOS products, the speaker seamlessly connected to devices and performed reliably without any glitches. Its sleek design adds an elegant touch to any setting, fitting in well with modern decor.
Despite its visual appeal, the horizontal design of the Beats Pill limits its placement versatility. Unlike some speakers that can be positioned upright, the Pill can only be used in a horizontal position. For users looking for a compact speaker that can fit in tight or vertical spaces, this may be a drawback. However, its weighty build gives it a reassuring sense of durability, and this rugged quality makes it suitable for small spaces or outdoor use.
When it comes to sound, the Beats Pill doesn’t disappoint. The speaker produces clear and powerful audio that easily fills a room. It delivers a satisfying thump, perfect for use in smaller gatherings or even in a regular-sized bedroom. While the bass is present, it doesn’t overwhelm the overall sound profile, ensuring a balanced listening experience. Whether you’re listening to music, podcasts, or watching videos, the Pill offers solid audio performance that competes with other brands in the market.
However, there are a few quirks with the device. The power button requires a slightly extended press to turn on the speaker, which could be a bit frustrating for users unfamiliar with the product. Additionally, holding the button for too long can accidentally put the speaker into pairing mode, a minor inconvenience. The lack of an auto-off feature is another downside. Without this function, the speaker stays on indefinitely when idle, which can drain the battery if forgotten.
Despite these small drawbacks, the Beats Pill holds its ground in a competitive market where brands like Bose, Marshall, JBL, and Sony dominate. The Beats Pill’s quality construction, sound fidelity, and long battery life make it a strong contender. It stands out not only for its attractive design but also for its solid performance, making it a solid choice for users who appreciate a blend of style, durability, and functionality.
In conclusion, the return of the Beats Pill speaker brings with it a refreshed version of a much-loved portable speaker, offering a high-quality audio experience, robust design, and lasting battery life. For music lovers looking for a stylish and reliable Bluetooth speaker, the Beats Pill is a worthy investment that’s sure to impress in 2025.