Apple to open Siri to developers; will launch an Amazon Echo-like smart speaker

Apple will reportedly soon allow software developers to connect their apps to its Siri, in an effort to activate certain features and capabilities. The company may introduce a device, similar to Amazon Echo that would work with Apple’s smartphone home platform.

According to a report by The Information, opening up its Siri voice assistant to outside app developers is the more immediate step. As per a person with direct knowledge about the topic, Apple is preparing to release a software developer kit, or SDK, for app developers who want their apps to be accessible through Siri.

The company’s voice-controlled assistant will allow users to play music and control HomeKit-enabled smart home devices. The Siri SDK could be introduced at WWDC in June, where Apple traditionally introduces new iOS versions and developer tools. In addition, Apple is rumoured to introduce Siri to the Mac as well.

Apple’s new assistant is very similar to Amazon's Echo and Google's recently unveiled Google Assistant. The report added that Apple’s assistant has been in development since long before the arrival of Amazon Echo.