On the new JBL Authentics speakers, Google Assistant and Alexa will work interchangeably, thanks to Amazon's universal device commands (UDC) functionality. Despite declining smart speaker sales and the difficulty of monetizing voice assistants, both Amazon and Google see the integration as a way to improve customer experience and provide users with choice. However, it remains unclear whether this collaboration will extend to future products.
Key takeaways:
- Harman has announced new additions to its JBL Authentics speaker lineup that integrate both Google Assistant and Alexa, making them the first devices on the market to do so.
- Amazon launched the Voice Interoperability Initiative in 2020, aiming to ensure voice-enabled products let users choose among multiple voice assistants. Google initially declined to join but has now changed its stance.
- On the new JBL Authentics speakers, Google Assistant and Alexa will work interchangeably, thanks to Amazon's universal device commands (UDC) functionality.
- Despite declining smart speaker sales and challenges in monetizing voice assistants, Amazon and Google see the integration of both assistants on one device as a way to provide users with more choice and a better experience.