Icom Unveils the IC-M38 Marine VHF Handheld with Built-In Bluetooth® Connectivity

Icom has revealed details of its latest VHF marine handheld, the IC-M38, bringing built-in Bluetooth® technology to the forefront of on-water communications. Designed for a convenient, cable-free setup, the IC-M38 enables seamless hands-free operation alongside powerful 6 W transmit performance.

Whether handling mooring lines, navigating at the helm or working a busy commercial deck, users can now pair the transceiver directly with compatible wireless headsets or earpieces. Backed by Icom’s proven waterproof and buoyant construction, the IC-M38 combines modern wireless convenience with uncompromised maritime reliability.

The new handheld makes its international debut this week at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) and will be showcased to the European trade at METS in Amsterdam.

Hands-Free Convenience with Built-In Bluetooth®

One of the standout new features is built-in Bluetooth® wireless technology. Skippers and crew can pair wireless headsets or earpieces with the radio for clear, hands-free use while handling lines, steering or working on deck.

High-Power Performance & Loud Audio

The IC-M38 offers 6 W of RF transmit power, with a 1 W low-power option for shorter-range comms. This delivers greater line-of-sight range when calling shore stations or fellow vessels. Its 700 mW internal speaker ensures messages cut through engine noise, wind and spray.

Designed & Built for the Marine Environment

The IC-M38 is engineered to handle tough conditions at sea and includes:

• Rugged Waterproof Build: Rated to IP67 dustproof and waterproof standards (submersible to 1 metre for 30 minutes) and tested to military standard MIL-STD-810G.

• Float'n Flash & Audio Alarm: If dropped overboard, the radio stays afloat, flashes a bright red LED and sounds an audible alarm to help you locate and retrieve it, even in the dark.

• AquaQuake™ Draining: Employs low-frequency sound vibrations to clear standing water from the speaker grille, restoring clear audio immediately after immersion.

• Flexible Mounting with Klick Fast™: With the optional MBA-21 adapter, the radio can be quickly secured to or detached from a chest harness, lifejacket, shoulder clip or belt dock.

• Removable Battery Pack The radio uses a removable battery pack delivering up to 12 hours of operational time (5:5:90 duty cycle). The pack can be swapped out easily on extended passages, ensuring continuous safety without interruption.

Watch the Video Preview
See the new radio in action in the official promotional video: 'Watch the IC-M38 Video on YouTube'

Pricing, full specifications, and UK release details will be confirmed in due course. Keep an eye on our website and social channels for further updates.

For more details, contact the Icom UK team on 01227 741741 or email sales@icomuk.co.uk.