JBL has unveiled one of its most unconventional audio products yet—but there’s a twist. Despite its impressive nine-speaker setup and entertainment-focused design, the new device isn’t a standalone speaker at all. It’s the Motorola Pad 70 Groove, an Android tablet that places audio front and center.
Launched in India, the new tablet combines a large display, JBL-tuned speakers, and multimedia features into a single device aimed at movie lovers and casual listeners.
A tablet built around sound
Unlike most tablets, where speakers are treated as secondary features, the Motorola Pad 70 Groove is designed with audio as its biggest selling point.
The tablet houses a total of nine JBL-tuned drivers, including:
- Four tweeters
- Three woofers
- Two passive radiators
Together, they deliver up to 48W of audio output, making this one of the most speaker-heavy tablets currently available.
All of the drivers are positioned behind a large rear speaker grille, creating a unique design that prioritizes sound over slimness.
Entertainment-first design
Motorola has equipped the Pad 70 Groove with a 12.1-inch 2.5K display that supports Dolby Vision, making it well suited for watching movies, streaming TV shows, and gaming.
The tablet also includes:
- Front and rear cameras for video calls and photography
- Android operating system
- Built-in kickstand for hands-free viewing
- JBL audio tuning
The integrated kickstand allows users to prop the tablet at different angles, helping direct sound toward the listener rather than into a tabletop.
More than just a media device
Because it’s a full Android tablet, users can:
- Stream movies and TV shows
- Play Android games
- Browse the web
- Join video calls
- Use productivity apps
- Listen to music without needing an external speaker
The combination of a large touchscreen and powerful speaker system makes it an all-in-one entertainment device rather than simply a portable speaker.
Great on paper—but there are compromises
While the speaker specifications are impressive, tablets still face physical limitations compared to dedicated Bluetooth speakers.
Since all nine drivers are packed closely together on the back of the device, stereo separation is naturally limited. Dedicated Bluetooth speakers with larger acoustic chambers generally deliver better sound staging, deeper bass, and more immersive audio.
The substantial rear speaker assembly may also make the tablet thicker and heavier than conventional Android tablets.
Availability
The Motorola Pad 70 Groove has launched in India, with wider availability expected in early August. So far, Motorola has not announced plans for a global release.
Given that previous Moto Pad devices have remained India-exclusive, international availability remains uncertain.
Final thoughts
The Motorola Pad 70 Groove is an unusual take on portable entertainment. Instead of treating speakers as an afterthought, Motorola and JBL have built an Android tablet around an ambitious nine-speaker audio system.
For users who primarily watch movies, listen to music, or want louder built-in audio without carrying an external speaker, it offers an intriguing concept. However, those seeking the best possible sound quality may still be better served by pairing a conventional tablet with a dedicated Bluetooth speaker.
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