Digital speakers are benefiting from several market trends: mobile device proliferation, maturity of flat panel TV market, and streaming music services. The popularity of related devices like headphones is also contributing to the growth opportunities for digital speakers. Portable speakers, in particular, have risen to the forefront – Apple’s decision to transition from the 30-pin connector to its new Lightning connector compelled many consumers to look for more universal solutions (e.g. Bluetooth enabled portable speakers) over ecosystem specific solutions like speakers docks designed for iOS products. Consumers looking to enhance the audio experience from flat panel TVs are also growing sales of sound bars - this attention is also bringing a wider breadth of products and features. In total, the market is expected to expand at a 5.3% CAGR from 2013 to 2018.
This report discusses the market (current and forecasted) for digital speakers which include: portable speakers, speakers with dock, sound bars, and network audio systems. These devices are further characterized by connectivity (e.g. wired versus wireless).