Microsoft's competitor to Amazon Echo and Google Home to launch in 2017

Microsoft recently posted a blog, announcing their new Cortana Skills Kit and Cortana Devices SDK. This post was accompanied by a video that gave viewers a sneak peek into what appears to be a cylindrical-shaped, smart speaker – much like Amazon’s Echo and Google Home.

“We believe that everyone deserves a personal assistant. One to help you cope as you battle to stay on top of everything – from work to your home life. An assistant that is available everywhere you need it, working in concert with the experts you rely on to get things done,” the post read.

Microsoft further explained what Cortana Skills Kit is and how users can benefit from it. “The Cortana Skills Kit is designed to help developers reach the growing audience of 145 million Cortana users, helping users get things done while driving discovery and engagement across platforms: Windows, Android, iOS, Xbox and new Cortana-powered devices,” they said.

Microsoft in partnership with Harman Kardo, will be launching a “real-time, two-way audio communications with Skype, e-mail, calendar and list integration,” in 2017.

“The Cortana Devices SDK is currently in private preview and will be available more broadly in 2017. If you are an OEM or ODM interested in including Cortana in your device, please contact us using this form to receive updates on the latest news about the Cortana Devices SDK and to be considered for access to the early preview,” the blog concluded.