IKEA's Teklan Collection: A Colorful Leap in Home Audio
IKEA is no stranger to the intersection of furniture and technology. For years, the Swedish giant has been subtly integrating smart home features into everyday objects. But with the newly announced Teklan collection—a collaboration with Swedish designer Tekla Evelina Severin—the company is pivoting away from the understated "tech that disappears" philosophy toward something far more assertive: tech that demands to be seen.
Announced on November 25, 2025, and slated for a global release in December 2025, this collection represents a significant shift in design language for IKEA’s audio lineup. By partnering with Severin, known professionally as Teklan, IKEA is betting that consumers are ready for home electronics that double as vibrant art pieces.
The Solskydd Series: Sound as Sculpture
Technical Specifications and Sizes
The Solskydd series is available in three distinct sizes, each catering to different use cases:
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Small (8 inches, $80): This is the portable entry in the lineup. It features a rechargeable battery, making it the go-to option for moving music from room to room.
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Medium (11 inches, $100): A mid-sized option that requires a power source.
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Large (18 inches, $140): The largest of the group, designed specifically for wall mounting.
Both the small and medium versions offer flexibility in display; they can be hung up or placed on an accompanying base. The large version, however, is committed to the wall, reinforcing the idea that these are intended to function as wall art first and speakers second.
Design and Aesthetics
Teklan’s signature style—often described as retro-futurist—is evident in the soft, inviting shapes that contrast with the technical complexity of the devices. The speakers feature surface graphics designed to create optical effects; the patterns shift subtly as you move around the room, adding a layer of depth and rhythm to the object itself.
While the primary draw is the explosion of color and pattern, IKEA has retained a lifeline for the minimalists. The Solskydd speakers will also be available in a plain white version, allowing those who prefer the form factor without the bold graphics to participate in the ecosystem.
Connectivity and Features
Functionality hasn't been sacrificed for form. All Solskydd models support Bluetooth and feature a "multi-speaker mode." This allows users to connect multiple compatible IKEA Bluetooth speakers to create a broader soundscape or a 3D sound experience.
The Kulglass: Lighting Meets Audio
The design inspiration comes from an unexpected place: soft-serve ice cream. The shades feature a distinct swirl shape, available in green or a red-brown with pink accents. These aren't just lamps; they are statement pieces equipped with a built-in Bluetooth speaker and a volume knob.
By merging ambient lighting with audio playback, the Kulglass solves a common problem in smaller living spaces: clutter. Instead of needing a separate lamp and a Bluetooth speaker on a bedside table, the Kulglass handles both, all while serving as a distinct visual anchor in the room.
Completing the Ecosystem: Accessories and Updates
The Teklan collection isn't limited to just new hardware. It also refreshes existing successes and adds necessary accessories with a design-forward twist.
The Updated Vappeby
Braided Charging Cables
Often an afterthought, cables here get the full design treatment. The collection includes a series of braided charging cables released earlier in 2025. With 14 different color options inspired by climbing ropes, these accessories are designed to be displayed rather than hidden behind a desk. It’s a small detail, but one that speaks to the holistic approach of the Teklan collaboration—if the tech is going to be visible, even the power cord needs to look good.
Strategic Implications and Market Availability
The timing of this release is notable. With a global launch in December 2025—some markets seeing availability as early as December 5—IKEA is positioning these products as prime holiday gifts.
The pricing strategy is aggressive. At $140 for the largest wall-mounted speaker and $80 for a portable unit, IKEA is undercutting many dedicated audio brands while offering a design pedigree that those brands rarely match.
This collection marks a confident step away from the purely utilitarian. By collaborating with Tekla Severin, IKEA is acknowledging that for modern consumers, the "smart home" isn't just about functionality; it's about curating a space that reflects personal style. Whether it's the architectural references in the Solskydd patterns or the nostalgic ice cream swirl of the Kulglass, these products are designed to spark joy as much as they are designed to play music.
