Apple said to prep Amazon Echo-like device

The Amazon Echo can now control over 70 connected GE appliances. Amazon's Echo smart speaker may soon have some new competition -- from Siri. Apple is reportedly in the prototype stage of developing its answer to Amazon's popular device, according to a new report from Bloomberg. Similar to Echo, the device would allow users to use Siri to control their home through voice, issuing commands to control everything from lights to locks to thermostats, something referred to as home automation. Apple has dabbled in this space the past few years through its HomeKit program, allowing appliance manufacturers to create Internet-connected products that can be controlled from an iPhone, iPad or Apple TV through Siri.