Does Toyota own JBL?
No. JBL is not owned by Toyota. JBL is a brand under Harman International Industries, which Samsung Electronics owns through its 2017 acquisition of Harman.
This article explains JBL's ownership structure, Harman's corporate status, and Toyota's relationship with Harman/JBL to provide an up-to-date, clear answer.
Current ownership structure
Key facts about who controls JBL and Harman today, and how the brands are organized.
- JBL is a brand within Harman International Industries, a company known for audio products and automotive infotainment systems.
- Harman International Industries has been a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics since 2017, following Samsung's acquisition of Harman for about $8 billion.
- Toyota does not own Harman, JBL, or Harman's parent company; any connection is based on collaboration, not equity ownership.
In short, JBL sits under Harman, which in turn is owned by Samsung Electronics. Toyota's involvement with JBL/Harman is as a partner in technology development, not as an owner.
Ownership timeline
A concise timeline highlights the key corporate events relevant to JBL and Harman.
Samsung Electronics completed its acquisition of Harman in 2017, placing JBL and other Harman brands under Samsung's umbrella. Since then, JBL has continued as a Harman brand within Samsung’s corporate structure. Toyota has not gained ownership of Harman or JBL and remains a separate company, though it collaborates with Harman on certain automotive technologies.
Toyota's relationship with Harman/JBL
Details of Toyota's collaboration with Harman and what that means for JBL’s ownership status.
Toyota has partnered with Harman on in-car audio and infotainment technologies for many years. This collaboration has supported Harman’s audio and connected-car capabilities in various Toyota and Lexus models. The relationship is contractual and technology-focused, not ownership-based, so Toyota does not control JBL or Harman.
Examples of collaboration
Selected instances include in-car audio systems and infotainment platforms integrated into Toyota and Lexus vehicles, leveraging Harman’s engineering and software expertise. These partnerships illustrate ongoing cooperation without implying ownership.
Summary
Toyota does not own JBL. JBL is a brand under Harman International Industries, which Samsung Electronics owns as a subsidiary since 2017. Toyota’s connection to JBL/Harman is through ongoing collaboration and technology partnerships, not equity ownership.
What company owns JBL?
JBL is owned by Harman International, which is a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics. Harman International acquired JBL in 1969 and was later purchased by Samsung in 2017, though it operates as an independent subsidiary.
- Parent company: Samsung Electronics
- Immediate parent company: Harman International Industries
- JBL's history: Founded in 1946 by James Bullough Lansing
Does Toyota use JBL speakers?
No, not all Toyotas have JBL speakers; the premium JBL sound system is an optional upgrade available on select trims of many models, and it is not included as a standard feature on all vehicles. You must choose a specific model and trim level, or an optional package, to get the JBL system.
- Standard vs. optional: Most Toyotas come with a standard audio system, and you have to opt for a higher trim level or an available upgrade package to get the JBL speakers.
- Model availability: The JBL system is available on a wide range of models, but it is still an option and not a standard feature across the entire lineup.
- Trim-dependent: The availability of the JBL system often depends on the specific trim you choose. For example, the JBL system might be standard on a "Limited" or "TRD Pro" trim but optional on other trims.
- Other models: Some basic models, like the standard 2025 Toyota Camry, come with a standard six-speaker system that can be upgraded to a nine-speaker JBL system with a subwoofer and amplifier.
Which speaker brand does Toyota use?
The designers at Toyota care about every aspect of your driving experience, from the technology systems to the clarity of the soundwaves coming from the stereo. That's why the brand partnered with JBL®* in 1996 to bring dynamic, immersive sound to the Toyota lineup.
Is JBL owned by Toyota?
JBL is a subsidiary of Harman International, which is owned by Samsung Electronics.
