Harman International is a global leader in audio and connected technologies, serving automotive, consumer, and enterprise markets. It designs, manufactures, and markets a broad range of products, including audio systems, infotainment solutions, and enterprise automation. The company’s products work by integrating high-quality audio hardware with connected services and software—think car infotainment systems, premium home and portable audio, and enterprise automation tools—often featuring well-known brands such as JBL, Harman Kardon, and AKG. Harman competes by leveraging its diverse brand portfolio, global reach, and emphasis on smart experiences and seamless connectivity across devices and vehicles, along with substantial investment in research and development. Its goal is to remain a leading provider of audio and connected technology, delivering integrated solutions that enhance entertainment, connectivity, and productivity for consumers and businesses alike.
Company Size
10,001+
Company Stage
Acquired
Total Funding
$8B
Headquarters
Stamford, Connecticut
Founded
1980
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Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Flexible Work Hours
Remote Work Options
Paid Sick Leave
Wellness Program
Tuition Reimbursement
AI environmental impact: data center emissions threaten climate benefits. AI in Automotive Manufacturing: how HARMAN and FORVIA HELLA Are Scaling AI Use Cases at Automotive News Congress 2026. September 28, 2026 AI in Automotive Manufacturing - Arch Systems, the manufacturing intelligence platform powering AI agents on factory shop floors, announced that two automotive manufacturers it is working with, HARMAN Automotive and FORVIA HELLA, will join a panel at Automotive News Congress 2026 on how manufacturers are scaling AI use cases that actually deliver results on the plant floor. Business news The session, "How Automotive Manufacturers Are Scaling the AI Use Cases That Work," is moderated by Arch Systems CTO and Co-Founder Tim Burke. It brings together operations and engineering leaders, Don Barnes, Vice President of Manufacturing Excellence, HARMAN Automotive, and Sven Hoenecke, CEO, FORVIA HELLA Americas, two tiers of the automotive supply chain, to share what it takes to turn AI pilots into measurable, repeatable outcomes. Discover more Medical electronics devices Semiconductor innovation news This session gives manufacturing leaders a direct look at how AI is improving uptime, throughput, and quality today, and what it takes to scale a working use case across lines, plants, and operations. HARMAN: Proven Results at Scale HARMAN, the automotive technology leader and subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., partnered with Arch Systems to deploy the Arch Factory Intelligence Platform across its global electronics manufacturing network, beginning with a lighthouse deployment at its Suzhou, China facility. Documented results from the deployment: * Approximately 30% growth in total placements across four manufacturing sites * Approximately 37% improvement in Defects Per Million Units (DPMU) * 6 to 8 percentage-point improvement in Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) across multiple sites The joint initiative, "Scaling Factory Intelligence with Agentic AI," was named a finalist for the 2026 Automotive News PACE Award. AR VR technology "For us, AI is an enabler to drive quality and productivity across our manufacturing sites, while improving transparency and creating greater synergies across our global operations. Our collaboration with Arch Systems is helping us advance that journey, supported by HARMAN's strong culture of continuous improvement and our teams' willingness to embrace change," said Don Barnes, Vice President of Manufacturing Excellence, HARMAN Automotive. FORVIA HELLA: AI in Action on the Line FORVIA HELLA, a global Tier 1 automotive electronics and lighting manufacturer, recently began a pilot with Arch Systems focused on real-time downtime labeling and AI-driven root-cause analysis across SMT lines. On stage, Sven Hoenecke will address what has to be true structurally before AI can scale across a global plant network, how AI, automation, and robotics combine to solve labor constraints in electronics manufacturing, and the lessons learned from putting AI to work in a highly quality-driven production environment. "At FORVIA HELLA, we are focused on scaling AI where it creates measurable business impact," says Sven Hoenecke, President and CEO of FORVIA HELLA Electronics, Americas. "With a connected manufacturing network, a dedicated transformation organization, and a clear focus on business value, we are turning AI into measurable improvements in quality, productivity, and resilience across our global operations." Event Details Automotive News Congress 2026 Electronics components Panel: How Automotive Manufacturers Are Scaling the AI Use Cases That Work Date: September 29, 2026 Time: 12:40 PM Discover more Semiconductor rectifiers
Rich Vreeland named Harman Western Regional Sales Manager. NORTHRIDGE, CA (09.11.26) - All are excited to welcome Rich Vreeland to the Harman Consumer North America Aftermarket Audio Sales team, effective August 24, 2026. Rich is located in Texas and will report directly to Shawn Spedding. Rich will be responsible for driving sales growth across the Western region, strengthening relationships with current dealers and distributors, and identifying opportunities to expand its dealer network. He will also play an important role in product education and training, sales presentations and demonstrations, dealer and industry events, and supporting new product launches across HARMAN's mobile aftermarket portfolio. Rich brings more than 30 years of experience in the automotive electronics, consumer electronics, and aftermarket audio industries, with an extensive background in regional sales leadership, dealer development, training, and business growth. Most recently, he served as Regional Sales Manager at Garmin, managing a territory of approximately 190 retailers and helping integrate JL Audio dealers and programs into Garmin. Prior to Garmin, Rich spent six years as Area Sales Director for JL Audio, where he managed the Western region across 18 states and worked closely with mobile and home audio representative firms and key dealers. "Please join us in welcoming Rich and providing your full support" Shawn Spedding Director of Sales, Mobile Audio Aftermarket Consumer Audio, Americas Lifestyle Audio stated.
HARMAN Appoints Dr. Thomas Irawan as Chief Operating Officer, Automotive TMCnet News [September 03, 2026] | / | HARMAN Appoints Dr. Thomas Irawan as Chief Operating Officer, Automotive HARMAN International, a wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., and a global technology company delivering AI-enabled products, software and orchestrated experiences across automotive, consumer and enterprise markets, today announced that Dr. Thomas Irawan will join the company on October 1, 2026, as Chief Operating Officer and President Designate, HARMAN Automotive. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260903125933/en/ In this new role, Dr. Irawan will provide operational leadership for HARMAN Automotive, overseeing the division's day-to-day execution and business performance. He will also become a member of HARMAN's Senior Leadership Team. Christian Sobottka, HARMAN Chief Executive Officer, will continue to serve as President of HARMAN Automotive, leading the division's long-term strategy, major transformation initiatives, the planned integration of the ZF ADAS business following closing, and strategic customer and partner relationships. As part of a planned leadership transition, Dr. Irawan will progressively assume responsibility for the division's operational leadership and business performance. As the automotive industry shifts toward AI-enabled, software-defined vehicle experiences, competitive advantage increasingly depends on how seamlessly technologies come together for automakers and consumers. HARMAN is uniquely positioned to bring together AI, sftware, connectivity, cockpit technologies and advanced engineering into integrated solutions-and Dr. Irawan's appointment strengthens the company's ability to execute that vision. "The next generation of automotive innovation will be defined by execution," said Christian Sobottka, CEO of HARMAN and President, HARMAN Automotive. "Thomas brings the rare combination of strategic vision, operational excellence and deep software expertise needed to lead a business of HARMAN Automotive's scale and ambition. Together, this leadership model strengthens our ability to execute at speed, grow with our customers and shape the next era of intelligent mobility." Dr. Irawan joins HARMAN from ETAS, a global provider of automotive software, middleware and development solutions, where he serves as President and Chairman. During his career at ETAS and Bosch, he has held senior leadership positions spanning software-defined vehicle technologies, advanced driver assistance systems, manufacturing, quality, and global operations. He has led major business transformations and business growth initiatives. Beginning October 1, Dr. Irawan will assume operational leadership of HARMAN Automotive, with responsibility for the division's operating cadence, execution and business performance across its Intelligent Cockpit, Car Audio, Connectivity, and Automotive Engineering Services businesses, as well as Global Customer Groups. Following completion of the pending acquisition of the ZF ADAS business, that organization is also expected to become part of his operational responsibilities. "HARMAN has a unique ability to translate rapidly evolving consumer expectations into automotive technologies with the quality, reliability and engineering excellence our customers expect," said Dr. Irawan. "I'm excited to join the team as we expand our capabilities, deepen our customer partnerships and deliver experiences that are safer, more intuitive and more rewarding for drivers and passengers." About Dr. Thomas Irawan * Joins HARMAN on October 1, 2026, as Chief Operating Officer, HARMAN Automotive. * Most recently served as President and Chairman of ETAS. * Brings extensive leadership experience across software-defined vehicles, ADAS, manufacturing, quality and global operations. * Has led global software organizations, operational transformations and strategic business growth initiatives throughout his career. * Will become a member of HARMAN's Senior Leadership Team. About HARMAN HARMAN is a global leader in Lifestyle Audio and Automotive technology. Fog Computing World create intelligent experiences that enrich people's lives on the road, in their homes, on the stage, and everywhere in between. Its iconic audio brands - including JBL(R), Harman Kardon(R), AKG(R), Bowers & Wilkins(R), Denon(R), and Marantz(R)- bring premium sound to consumers and audio/visual professionals worldwide. More than 50 million vehicles globally rely on HARMAN's technologies to deliver safer, smarter, and more intuitive in-cabin experiences. A wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., HARMAN has approximately 27,000 employees around the world. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260903125933/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage] |
Introducing JBL Quantum 520X and Quantum 120. The updated range brings immersive sound and personalization to all gamers Cologne, Germany - August 26, 2026 - Today at Gamescom 2026, JBL announces the newest products in its Quantum gaming line, the JBL Quantum 520X Wireless and Quantum 120. The new headsets join the flagship JBL Quantum 950X, JBL Quantum 650X and JBL Quantum 250 to complete the refreshed lineup, designed to deliver immersive JBL Quantum Spatial Sound for all gamers - from beginner, to advanced, and everything in between. Powered by JBL QuantumENGINE and featuring comfortable, lightweight materials, the updated range now offers better performance and more choice than ever. Whether you prefer wired or wireless, console or PC, JBL Quantum has something for every gamer. Unlock a new level of sound Featuring 50 mm carbon dynamic drivers, the JBL Quantum 520X and 120 deliver powerful, immersive audio at all levels, letting you hear every detail - from the sound of distant footsteps to a subtle pin drop. Sense your opponent's every move, from any direction, as JBL Spatial Sound puts you in the center of the action. Whether someone is running towards you, or sneaking up from behind, you'll always be one step ahead. Playing with friends? The detachable 6 mm cardioid boom mic on all headsets keeps your voice clear and focused through those high-stakes battles, so your team will never miss a callout. "We want gamers of all levels to feel the difference that high-quality audio can make to gameplay - and the updates to our JBL Quantum range are a reflection of that," said Carsten Olesen, President of Consumer Audio at HARMAN. "Building on our strong entry into the gaming market, we have used our latest innovations and expertise to evolve JBL Quantum into a complete lineup that delivers an elevated experience at all levels." Game all day Now featuring a silicone headband, breathable fabric ear-cushions, and up to 37 hours of battery life in the JBL Quantum 520X, JBL's wireless headsets keep you powered through any game, all day long. Whether you're playing on Xbox, PlayStation or mobile, the JBL Quantum 520X delivers a seamless audio experience across your favorite platforms, offering universal connectivity across wherever you game. For a reliable wired connection, the JBL Quantum 120 offers seamless, high-quality audio with a comfortable, lightweight design that packs in essential features with great sound. For sound just the way you like it, you can now customize your sound, mic, and profile settings with JBL QuantumENGINE. The JBL Quantum 520X will be available for $129.95 and on shelves Ocotber 18, 2026. The JBL Quantum 120 is available for presale now at jbl.com for $49.95. For more information, visit jbl.com. | Feature | JBL Quantum 520X | JBL Quantum 120 | | Driver size | 50 mm carbon dynamic | 50 mm carbon dynamic | | JBL Quantum Spatial Sound | Yes | Yes | | Hi-Res Audio | Yes | Yes | | JBL QuantumENGINE | Yes | Yes | | Connectivity | Dual wireless connection with 2.4GHz dongle or via Bluetooth 5.4 Low-latency wired connection via USB-C | Wired 3.5 mm | | Mic | Detachable noise-cancelling 6mm cardioid boom mic | Detachable noise-cancelling 6mm cardioid boom mic | | Battery life | Up to 37 hours + 1 additional hour with 5-min charging | N/A | | Compatibility | Windows PC, MacOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation | Windows PC, MacOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android, all gaming consoles | | Colors | Black | Black, Ice | | Availability | October 18, 2026 | Available for pre-sale now | | Price | $129.95 | $49.95 | Follow HARMAN online * Find more news at the HARMAN Newsroom * Like HARMAN on Facebook * Connect with Harman on LinkedIn * Check out its YouTube Channel * Follow HARMAN on X @harman * Follow X Hashtag #Harman For over 80 years, JBL has shaped life's most memorable moments at the intersection of music, lifestyle, gaming and sports. JBL elevates listening experiences with superior audio quality and product designs that encourage individuality and self-expression. With unmatched professional credentials and industry-leading innovation, JBL is a trailblazer in the audio industry because of passionate and talented engineers and designers around the globe. JBL Pro Sound is the foremost technology pushing culture forward through major pop culture events and partnerships with the world's top talent across music, sports and esports.
Bondi Icebergs swimming club picks Harman for flexible AV. JBL Professional, Crown and BSS products in the club's renovated restaurant and function spaces enable rapid changeovers between live music, private functions and everyday trade. With a location overlooking the Pacific Ocean at the southern end of Bondi Beach, the Bondi Icebergs Swimming Club is one of Australia's most iconic venues. A major multi-stage renovation has seen the club and function spaces relaunched under a new identity - The Bergs. Designed to support a broader mix of hospitality, events and live entertainment, the revitalised venue pairs upgraded interiors with a flexible AV system. Delivered by integrator Showtime Production Services and MadisonAV, the system is rooted in Harman Professional's JBL Professional, Crown and BSS solutions. The Bergs was conceived as a venue capable of rapid changeovers and parallel programming, hosting events with entirely different technical requirements year-round. The upgrade has introduces new bars, expanded dining areas, upgraded amenities and dedicated function rooms, all supported by an AV infrastructure designed to adapt as programming demands evolve. 'Running multiple functions' Cassie O'Brien, general manager of Bondi Icebergs, says: "On a typical Friday or Saturday, AV Interactive is turning over spaces every couple of hours while running multiple functions. "One area might be general trade with sport and background music, another a private function with images streamed to screens, and elsewhere a live band is performing. The upgrade allows us to create very different experiences within one venue." 'Flexible and intuitive' The brief prioritised future-proofing, operational simplicity and long-term reliability. Scott Masters, director at Showtime Production Services, says: "The AV system needed to be flexible, intuitive for staff and designed so that the venue can expand or adapt without major rework. MadisonAV played a key role in helping us align the right technology to that goal." At the core of the installation is a distributed, multi-zone audio architecture built around BSS BLU signal processors, providing centralised control and flexible routing across all zones. This allows staff to isolate or combine spaces as needed. JBL Control Series loudspeakers are deployed throughout the property to match the acoustic requirements of each space. The reception and dining areas feature JBL Control 424 in-ceiling loudspeakers for consistent, low-profile coverage, while JBL Control 25AV surface-mount loudspeakers provide balanced audio across general zones. In higher-energy areas, JBL Control 29AV loudspeakers deliver increased output, supported by a JBL ABS6112B subwoofer, which is used by DJs and for live performances to reinforce low-frequency response. Amplification is provided by a combination of Crown CDi and CSA Series amplifiers, ensuring reliable power delivery and scalable performance across the multi-zone system. Local audio inputs are routed through the BSS BLU-100 signal processor, allowing simple connections for background music, DJ set-ups or live sources, without adding operational complexity. Nick Screen, vice-president and general manager of Harman Professional Solutions for the APAC region, says: "Modern hospitality venues need systems that deliver consistent sound quality across multiple zones while remaining easy to operate and robust enough for constant use. "The JBL, Crown and BSS ecosystem used at Bondi Icebergs supports that balance, allowing venues to shift seamlessly between use cases without compromising the guest experience."