iFi Released New USB-C Bluetooth Transmitters
The company launched the Up Play and Up Play Max to bring advanced wireless audio codecs to mobile and gaming devices.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Consumer Electronics
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iFi has released the Up Play and Up Play Max, two USB-C Bluetooth transmitters designed to add high-fidelity audio support to smartphones, laptops, and consoles. These lightweight devices enable users to access codecs like LDAC and aptX Lossless on hardware that typically lacks them.
Why it matters
By connecting to devices via USB-C, these transmitters allow users to bypass the limitations of standard Bluetooth audio on their existing hardware. This solution provides a simple path to high-quality sound for people using iPhones, Android devices, or gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch.
The Up Play utilizes Bluetooth 5.2 and supports LDAC and aptX, while the Up Play Max features Bluetooth 5.4 and adds aptX Lossless and Auracast capabilities. Both models share a compact footprint of 27.6 x 20.8 x 8 mm and weigh only 3.0 g.
The players
iFi
This audio equipment manufacturer specializes in high-fidelity sound components and portable digital-to-analog converters.
JVC Kenwood
This multinational electronics company provides specialized audio processing technology utilized in the Up Play transmitter.
The details
The devices plug into USB-C ports on equipment like the PlayStation 5, notebooks, and mobile phones to enable advanced streaming. The Up Play model specifically integrates JVC Kenwood and Victor Studio K2 Technology to process and restore audio signal quality.
Timeline
October 11, 2026: The product line was officially released.
The Tech Race
The introduction of these transmitters reflects a shift toward modular upgrades in the high-fidelity audio market. By integrating the aptX Lossless Bluetooth codec into a plug-and-play form factor, iFi is competing against legacy internal audio hardware that has been slow to adopt advanced wireless standards.
Users can now upgrade their existing mobile devices and gaming consoles to support high-end wireless audio without needing new hardware. The low power consumption of 10 mA ensures that the transmitter does not significantly drain the battery of connected phones or portable consoles.
The takeaway
These transmitters offer a cost-effective way to improve audio quality for mobile gaming and music listening. Consumers should check which specific Bluetooth codecs their current wireless headphones support to ensure full compatibility with the new adapters.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Consumer Electronics.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Notebookcheck.
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