Apple launches Homepod, takes aim at Amazon’s Echo

NEW YORK (NBC News) — Apple is taking aim at Amazon’s Echo.
The company unveiled the “Homepod” Monday, a voice-activated, internet-connected speaker that expands usage of the company’s Siri voice assistant.
The seven-inch speaker will cost $349, but won’t be available until December. Along with playing music content, the unit will also send texts and control home gadgets.
It brings Apple into direct competition with such offerings as Amazon’s Echo and Go