Sony introduces LF-S50G smart speaker as rival to Amazon Echo
Sony has unveiled the LF-S50G, a voice-controlled smart speaker it believes can take on Amazon's Alexa. Available in the UK from November at around £200 ($257), the LF-S50G has Google Assistant pre-installed, links to the internet via Wi-Fi, can connect with other Chromecast-enabled smart speakers in a user's home, and has a 360-degree speaker system. Apple is expected to launch its HomePod speaker before the end of the year.

Sony takes aim at the Amazon Echo - and Apple's forthcoming HomePod - with its new LF-S50G smart speaker

Sony has unveiled its answer to the Amazon Echo - a new voice-controlled smart speaker that claims to combine easy access to online information with high-quality sound.

Catchily named the LF-S50G, the speaker connects to the internet over WiFi, and has a 360-degree speaker system, meaning you get the same sound quality wherever you are in the room.

As well as a full range speaker and a dedicated subwoofer, the speaker also features a "damped bass reflex duct" for extra bass, and an "omnidirectional two stage diffuser" to help spread the sound in all directions.

Sony's speaker come pre-installed with Google Assistant - the same virtual person assistant that runs on the Google Home smart speaker . This allows users to access online information without having to pick up and touch their phone.

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You can bring the speaker to life by saying "Ok Google", and then ask questions like what the traffic will be like on your route to work, set an alarm to wake you up in the morning or retrieve the flight booking details for your next trip.

You can also check and update your calendar to manage your upcoming appointments, add to your to-do lists, and get general information about the news and weather forecast.

The speaker will connect to any other Chromecast-enabled smart speakers in the home for a multi room set-up, and can play music, podcasts or radio from services like Spotify, Google Play Music, Pandora, TuneIn and iHeartRadio.

Image: Apple) Apple)

It can also be used to control a range of smart home devices with Chromecast built-in, such as Nest, Philips Hue and IFTTT, letting you adjust the temperature and lighting with just a word.

Bearing a striking resemblance to Apple's recently unveiled HomePod speaker , the S50G comes in either back or white, and has a water repellent coating, so you don't have to worry about placing it on the kitchen worktop. It also has a digital clock display on the front.

It will be available in the UK from November 2017, priced at approximately £200.