Known primarily for their charging solutions,at CES 2018 Anker Innovations announced their entry into the smart speaker market with the ZOLO Model Zero. The new device is scheduled to be available in the latter part of 2018. Anker is stressing the design aesthetics of the new device.
According to Steven Yang, CEO of Anker Innovations:
“Speakers used to be an essential, visual statement in the modern household, but today they have become a hidden device on a shelf or kitchen counter. The ZOLO Model Zero reflects our dedication to bringing the speaker back to the forefront of the home. But this isn't just a beautiful speaker, thanks to its unique, sound-centric design and the enhanced sound of Dolby Audio™, the ZOLO Model Zero will deliver big and crystal-clear audio to any room.”
The ZOLO Model Zero will be constructed of brushed aluminum with woven fabric which should help give it more of a premium image. Anker says the unique radial shape being employed for the speaker will help improve delivery of sound. The shape also does double duty in creating a natural handle for the speaker, making it easier to move around if desired. At this early stage, Anker says the speaker will be available in black/silver, black/bronze and white/gold color combinations.
As with any connected, smart home device equipped with the Google Assistant, the ZOLO Model Zero will be able to respond to the full range of “Hey Google” commands and can function as a Chromecast audio if a user wants to cast their favorite stream to the speaker.
Anker did not reveal a firm release date or pricing information, but they do say they plan to release more details in the coming months.
source: Anker Innovations
