Report: Apple testing an Amazon Echo-like device


Bloomberg:

Apple Inc. is pressing ahead with the development of an Echo-like smart-home device based on the Siri voice assistant, according to people familiar with the matter.
Started more than two years ago, the project has exited the research and development lab and is now in prototype testing, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing unannounced Apple projects. Like Amazon Inc.'s Echo, the device is designed to control appliances, locks, lights and curtains via voice activation, the people said.

All of this, of course, is rumor, and even assuming the report is accurate, that doesn't mean such a product will come to market. If Apple does launch a new device, based on previous product testing the report speculates something could come to market in the next 6-12 months.

Alternatively, Apple could maybe reach similar functionality using existing hardware across its product line. Rather than a dedicated device, it might be neat if various productions could work in concert. For example, Macs, Apple TV, iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watch, could coordinate services throughout the house. Like the report says, however, Apple may be looking for new products to expand revenues, which would mean new hardware.