The EchoXL is a large format Alexa-powered smart speaker as part of TEC’s Alexa program. Based on the current market offerings, it would be the largest of its kind. It’s form and features will be modeled after Amazon’s Echo speaker, to keep branding consistent and to also exemplify a potential line expansion. While small Bluetooth speakers still hold the largest market segment in audio, the market for larger sound systems has been steadily increasing over the past few years (as evidenced by new products from LG, Samsung, Sony, and JBL). Currently, Amazon does not have any products in this category.
The speaker will be used as a public demonstration piece to exhibit the current technology incorporated within smart speakers, such as the implementation of microphone arrays as wells as internal room correction capabilities. The novelty factor of a scaled up Echo speaker will also be useful for press for the group’s research.