Huawei launches HomePod clone

Huawei has taken the covers off its second-generation smart home speaker. Unlike the first Huawei home speaker that took a nod in the direction of the Google Home, the new one tips its hat directly at the Apple HomePod. Truth be told, there are probably some Amazon Echo overtones blended into its looks as well.

The new Huawei AI Speaker was teased at the special Chinese launch event for the Huawei Mate 20 series of smartphones. Among the AI smarts built into the speaker is Huawei’s “Histen” algorithm. It is a music equalizer and booster software that Huawei also uses to boost the audio capabilities of its latest smartphones.

Huawei has teamed with Danish high-end audio brand Dynaudio to both help with the overall design as well as its audio capabilities. This includes a 2.25-inch driver paired with two passive bass radiators to help increase the bass response. System power is 10W, which is more or less in line with the competition. It also includes six microphones built around the device for voice recognition.

In its Chinese iteration, it will ship with Huawei’s “Xiaoyi” smart voice assistant, although we would expect that (should it ship internationally), it will at least have the option of Google Assistant built in as well. At this stage, no launch date or pricing is available.

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