Signs point to a Cortana speaker from Microsoft

Evidence is increasing that Microsoft is getting ready to launch a rival for the Amazon Echo and Google Home assistants. Windows Central discovered there's a new Cortana Device Setup app that gives you access to a wizard to set up your Cortana-powered device. Microsoft's exact plans aren't clear, it seems it will bring Cortana to a range of third-party speakers but it's also possible that the software giant is working on its own "Cortana Speaker" device.

The language suggests Microsoft is planning a bigger push to bring Cortana to third-party audio devices, but the company could also get in on the action at some point with its own "Cortana Speaker" device or devices. With a rumored hardware event looming, there's a chance we could see soon see some Cortana-powered home speakers on stage before an official launch, while Microsoft finishes off these new features.

Last year, Microsoft and Harman Kardon showed off a premium speaker with Cortana support. That device is expected to launch sometime this year.