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# Retro Smartphone Acoustics
Bang & Olufsen's Airplay Speaker is Made for the Apple iPhone

By Meghan Young | Published 2011-11-18 | Art & Design
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/airplay-speaker
References: [gizmodo](http://gizmodo.com/5859685/bang--olufsens-new-airplay-speaker-likes-music-picnics-and-walks-on-the-beach) & [wirelessgoodness](http://www.wirelessgoodness.com/2011/11/14/bang-olufsens-beolit-12-speaker-brings-a-retro-look-to-apple-airplay/)

The Airplay Speaker offers yet another example of tech companies indulging in a little bit of a throwback design spell. This simple and quaint sound system for the [Apple](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/d32) [iPhone](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retro-aesthetics-and-modern-technology) features a retro aesthetic that will surely appeal to those looking for a nostalgic addition to their homes.

Brought to us by [Bang & Olufsen](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beosound-a5), the Airplay Speaker goes in a pretty surprising direction despite the demand for vintage-like products. Bang & Olufsen is known for AV tech that all but screams luxury and affluence. Of course, it is always good to have a bit of diversity.

The Airplay Speaker boasts a perforated grill that embraces the Beolit 12. Paired with a convenient leather handle, the Airplay Speaker looks like a wicker basket. Equipped with Wi-Fi capabilities, it is compatible with iOS devices and computers.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 3.8/10
- Popularity: 31% | Activity: 76% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial
- Top markets: North America

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design)

## Key Themes

### What's Driving This Trend

- **Retro Sound Systems:** Designing vintage-looking sound systems with modern capabilities and features.
- **Nostalgic Technology:** Incorporating retro designs into modern technology products for added appeal.
- **Wireless Vintage Audio:** Creating wireless audio devices with throwback designs and aesthetics.

### Who This Affects Most

- **Consumer Electronics:** Opportunity for electronics companies to create new products that blend modern technology with vintage designs.
- **Home Decor:** Designers and retailers can incorporate retro audio equipment into home decor for added style and nostalgia.
- **Luxury Goods:** Companies that specialize in luxury products have an opportunity to create high-end retro audio equipment with modern features.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Basket-Resembling Premium Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beosound-a5.md)
- [Retro Sound Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/d32.md)
- [Phone Charger-Infused Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/phone-chargerinfused-speaker.md)
- [Modernized Retro Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-memory.md)
- [Retro-Style Tabletop Speaker](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nattbadd-bluetooth.md)
- [Connected Retro Design Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ruark-r140-sound-system.md)
- [Stylish Low-Tech Sound Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/frame-sound.md)
- [Angular Bluetooth Stereo Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bluetooth-stereo-speaker.md)
- [Wireless Harmonious Modern Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beolab-8.md)
