Ikea’s new Vappeby Bluetooth speaker lamp

Ikea’s forays into smart health connected audio continue with its new $65 Vappeby Bluetooth speaker light.

Vappeby looks like a futuristic-looking lantern and is the first speaker to feature Spotify Tap (which was previously only available on a variety of headsets) for one-touch access to the streaming music service.

The Vappeby Bluetooth speaker lamp actually seems designed to replace a camping lantern. It has a rechargeable battery, an integrated LED light and an IP65 resistance; which is enough to withstand an occasional thunderstorm, but certainly not for a dip in a pool. The IKEA speaker lamp even comes with a USB-C cable to charge it; although it does not include a socket to plug it in.

The newest addition is support for Spotify Tap, which is making its Bluetooth speaker debut. Once you’ve set up Tap in the Spotify app, press the power button on the Vappeby to automatically resume Spotify playback where you left off. If you press this button again, Spotify’s algorithm will recommend a song based on your listening habits.

Ikea Vappeby Bluetooth speaker lamp

Otherwise, the Vappeby Bluetooth speaker lamp does not offer many smart features. The lamp is just a regular lamp, with no integration with Ikea’s Trådfri platform; or with smart health home systems from Google, Apple and Amazon. Spotify integration aside, the speaker is just a regular Bluetooth speaker, with no option to double as a power bank or any fancy pairing or Sonos integration.

The Ikea Vappeby is available in blue and gray on the Ikea website for $64.99. A correct price with regard to the product and its functionalities, which were somewhat limited.