The BTS Official Lightstick Ver.4 has been the subject of much discussion since its announcement.
Before Ver.4, the most recent version widely used in concerts was Ver.3, released in 2018, followed by the special edition (SE) linked to the Map of the Soul era.
HYBE has finally unveiled an evolution of the famous ARMY Bomb...and reactions are mixed.
From new features and improved concert synchronization to exclusive accessories and angry reactions from some fans, here's everything you need to know about BTS's Ver.4 lightstick.
What's new in Lightstick Ver.4?
A modernized design
Ver.4 retains the iconic spirit of the ARMY Bomb globe, but with:
- a more modern structure,
- reworked finishes,
- a more "premium" visual impression.
More advanced concert synchronization
The major development concerns wireless control technology:
- better synchronization with the concert lighting system,
- smoother effects,
- expanded color palette,
- new interactive modes.
The goal is clear: to make the concert experience even more immersive.
A dedicated application
Ver.4 works with an official application that allows you to:
- the association before the concert,
- color adjustment in personal mode,
- Better management of pairing in the dining room.
Previous versions:
- are not compatible with this new app,
- do not benefit from the new control options,
- cannot take advantage of advanced features.
This means that the entire mobile experience is now centered on Ver.4.
A new 100% Ver.4 ecosystem: accessories, application, and synchronization
The big difference from previous versions is not just the design.
Ver.4 operates in an entirely new ecosystem.
Accessories compatible with Ver.4 only
Among the new features:
- acradle (base) to transform the lightstick into a decorative lamp,
-Interchangeable parts to customize your ARMY Bomb,
These accessories are only compatible with Ver.4.
They cannot be used with older versions (Ver.3 or SE), because:
- the structure of the globe has been modified,
- the attachment points are different,
Why are some fans angry?
The controversy stems mainly from an announcement regarding upcoming concerts:
👉 Starting with a BTS concert in Las Vegas, only Ver.4 will be able to be synchronized during concerts.
Previous versions:
- will continue to light up,
- will operate in manual mode,
- butwill no longer participate in synchronized lighting effects in stadiums.
For many ARMYs, this poses a problem:
- Some have recently purchased Ver.3.
- others were never able to use it in concert because of the hiatus,
- The feeling of being "forced" to buy another lightstick creates frustration.
- The ecological aspect is also being criticized.
On social media, reactions range from excitement about the new product to criticism of HYBE.
Is it worth upgrading to Ver.4?
It all depends on your profile:
🎟️ If you plan to attend upcoming concerts → Ver.4 will be clearly optimized for the experience.
🏠 If you collect → accessories and design can be a real plus.
💜 If you already own an older version and don't plan on attending a concert → it will remain fully functional in classic mode.
What this really changes for concerts
In venues such as the Stade de France, where tens of thousands of lightsticks are synchronized, technology plays a huge role.
Ver.4 allows:
- better lighting coordination,
- more spectacular effects,
- a more powerful immersion for the entire audience.
But it also marks a turning point:
K-pop concert technology is becoming increasingly advanced... and more demanding.
In summary
The BTS Lightstick Ver.4:
- arrives approximately 6 years after the last major version,
- offers improved synchronization,
- introduces exclusive accessories,
- makes these accessories compatible only with Ver.4,
- will no longer allow older versions to synchronize in concert.
What about you? Are you planning to upgrade to Ver.4 or keep your old lightstick? Let me know what you think in the comments.