Here's why a cheaper HomePod won't help Apple take down the Echo

This story was delivered to BI Intelligence IoT Briefing subscribers hours before it appeared on Business Insider. To be the first to know, please click here. Apple is reportedly considering releasing a less expensive version of its HomePod smart speaker later this year, according to Business Insider. The new device would cost between $150 and $200, which is significantly cheaper than the $350 price tag for the current device. The new speaker could be unveiled at the company's World Wide Developer Conference (WWDC) this June, where the original HomePod was first revealed last year, or at Apple's annual fall event during which it typically unveils new hardware.