JBL is bringing Google Assistant everywhere this year, from speakers to soundbars, displays, headphones, and more. The latest addition to its line-up, the JBL Link Drive, is meant to help you use Google Assistant while driving, but without taking your eyes off the road or fiddling with your phone.
Like several similar products we’ve already seen with Alexa, the Link Drive uses your phone as the main connection for Assistant, but it’s always-on and listening, and it has dual noise-cancelling microphones to improve recognition even if your car window is down or your environment is noisy. The Drive will also quiet music and radio when you say “Ok Google,” just like Google Assistant speakers already do around the house. This should help it better listen to you.
The Link Drive plugs into your 12V cigarette lighter socket, and can pair with both your phone and your car’s Bluetooth (via BT 4.2) if it’s supported. If not, you can plug it in with an Aux cable. Availability is slated for spring of 2019, with a retail price of $59.95.
