Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) Could Unveil Siri-Powered Speaker Next Week

Apple WWDC 2017
Photo: Apple Logo / Wikipedia / Creative Commons

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is expected to launch its Siri-controlled smart speaker next week at Worldwide Developers Conference, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the company’s plans.

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The Apple’s voice-activated speaker will be different from Amazon Echo and Google Home speakers and will be shipped later in the year, the people said.

They noted that the device will offer “virtual surround sound technology and deep integration with Apple’s product lineup.”

Earlier, rumors suggested that Apple’s smart speaker will be similar to the company’s cylindrical Mac Pro desktop.

The device is said to be able to control smart-home devices, set timers and reminders, stream songs and provide weather updates.

According to Apple leaker Sonny Dickson, the speaker will have a concave top with physical controls on top. Dickson believes that the device would have a speaker mesh portion covering the body. The mesh is rumored to be similar to the UE Boom Bluetooth speaker accessory, which is being sold at Apple’s retail stores. The device is expected to feature support for Siri and AirPlay and include Beats speaker technology.

The smart speaker is being tested by Apple employees at their own homes, according to the reports.

Last week, we also reported that the iPhone maker is preparing to unveil its voice-activated speaker at its Worldwide Developers Conference. The event will be held in San Jose from June 5 through June 9.

Meanwhile, shares of Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) were down 0.59% on Wednesday. The stock has been performing well so far this year, gaining nearly 32% year-to-date. During the last 12 months, the company’s share price has surged more than 52%.

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