Ever since Amazon launched the Echo – and even more since Google launched the Home – the tech community has been wondering if Apple will respond with its own Siri-powered connected speaker. That may happen as soon as next month’s WWDC event, according to MacRumors.
MacRumors cites Ming-Chi Kuo of KGI Securities – an Apple analyst with a solid track record – who says there is “an over 50 percent” chance Apple will announce the speaker at WWDC in June. Sales are slated to start in the second half of the year.
Kuo suggests the speaker will be aimed at a higher-end market than the Amazon Echo, providing a better audio experience and computing performance – and commanding a higher price tag for it. The device is rumored to feature seven tweeters and one woofer for a superior audio experience.
Though “over a 50% chance” isn’t exactly a guarantee, we’ve seen numerous reports that Apple has been developing the speaker over the past year, so the timing seems reasonable. Previous reports have also suggested the speaker will be able to control home appliances through HomeKit and have a built in camera – like the new Echo Look.
No word on whether Apple plans on judging your fashion choices too; you might want to buy some black turtlenecks just in case.
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