Along with the Mi 5X smartphone with dual rear cameras, Xiaomi also announced its AI powered voice-controlled smart speaker, the Xiaomi Mi AI Speaker. It is expected to take on the likes of Amazon Echo, Apple HomePod, Google Home, and other offerings in the smart speaker space.
The Xiaomi Mi AI Speaker is described as ‘an all rounded helper for day to day activities and on the other hand, a baby for nurture into the perfect companion.’ Devices connect to the speaker via DLNA, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and it has the ability to control Mi Home appliances and other smart products from its partners such as Mi Robot Vacuum, Mi Kettle, smart plugs and rice cooker.
Along with the ability to stream contents, audio books, live radio and children stories; the rectangular-shaped speaker plays music, sets alarm, takes note and answers questions about weather, traffic and translation. The controls can be spotted at the top along with a multi-colour LED notification light.
In terms of audio, the Mi AI Speaker promises excellent sound quality, thanks to its six-microphone array for 360-degree audio sensing and advanced echo cancellation. The Xiaomi Mi AI Speaker is priced at CNY 299 (US$ 45) but the first 1,000 buyers will get it for only CNY 1 provided they are willing to train it.
There is no word on availability outside the home country.
Fast, Dual, Simple – And that concludes today's launch! Stay tuned for a summary! pic.twitter.com/2WEc06HsQH
— Xiaomi (@Xiaomi) July 26, 2017
