Microsoft teases speaker to rival Amazon Echo

A 30-second video isn't much to go on, but one thing is clear: Microsoft is set to take on Amazon's Echo and Google's Home with its own AI speaker.

Harman Kardon, which was recently purchased by Samsung, is the manufacturer making the speaker. It is unclear whether there will be a variety of speakers, similar to Amazon's product range.

Its design appears to look similar to the Echo, with a display at the top that lights up with the circular Cortana interface. Cortana is Microsoft's voice-assistant, much like Siri on Apple devices.

Pricing and further details are as yet unknown, but since the speaker is due to debut in 2017, it's likely that Microsoft will start dropping more hints soon.

Recently, Microsoft announced plans for its Windows 10 HomeHub, which will allow you to use the Cortana voice assitant on PCs.

As such, we wouldn't be surprised if this new Cortana speaker had connected functionality with other Microsoft products, similar to how Amazon's Fire 8 HD tablet can be used in conjuction with the Echo and Dot.

MORE: 9 gift ideas for music fans

MORE: Amazon's next Alexa speaker to have touchscreen and better speakers

Adam was a staff writer for What Hi-Fi?, reviewing consumer gadgets for online and print publication, as well as researching and producing features and advice pieces on new technology in the hi-fi industry. He has since worked for PC Mag as a contributing editor and is now a science and technology reporter for The Independent.

Latest in Speakers
HomePod OS
An Apple HomePod with a screen might arrive this year after all
Elac Debut 3.0 DB53 standmount speakers
Elac Debut 3.0 DB53
KEF LS50 Wireless II streaming speaker system on a desk next to the the Technics SC-CX700
4 things Technics needs to do to beat KEF’s LS50 Wireless II hi-fi system and one area where it’s better
Elipson Planet L Performance speakers
These Planet-shaped speakers promise "exceptionally pure sound" with an out-of-this-world design
Bowers & Wilkins Radiohead The Bends event
I heard my favourite Radiohead album on the B&W speakers used to record it – and now I love it even more
JBL Flip 7 in white finish held in hand against backdrop of orange JBL beanie bags
JBL Flip 7 vs Flip 6: what's the difference between these two Bluetooth speakers?
Latest in News
Audiolab 6000A MkII amplifier in silver
Audiolab upgrades its five-star 6000A amplifier with a new DAC chip, enhanced circuitry and HDMI ARC
Qobuz
Qobuz reveals average payout per stream – and claims it is higher than rivals
Sonos Beam Gen 2
Quick! This five-star Sonos Dolby Atmos soundbar has dropped close to its lowest price
The Google Pixel 9a being held horizontally at waist-height so only the back is visible.
The Google Pixel 9a launches at £100 less than the iPhone 16e with a better screen
A woman flicking through stacks of vinyl records in a Rough Trade shop.
Vinyl records and music streaming both hit landmark highs – but the one growing faster in revenue may surprise you
Vertere DG X turntable in black finish
Vertere's gorgeous DG X turntable features significant updates for a more refined performance overall