Amazon Echo's shorter, slimmer model to take on Apple HomePod

Aiming to regain the top spot in smart speaker space, Amazon is reportedly working on a new flagship Echo speaker that will be slimmer and better than its predecessor.

According to a report in Engadget, the updated model will be "shorter and slimmer", akin to three or four stacked Echo Dots.

The move is seen as Amazon's attempt to better Apple HomePod that was launched in its Worldwide Developers Conference in June.

The new Echo would offer better sound using several tweeters instead of just one -- similar to the HomePod that will sport seven tweeters when it ships this December.

Amazon is also planning to improve Echo's microphone technology as well as the design.

If Amazon can stick to a $180 price tag, it will retain at least one advantage over the HomePod, which will sell for $349, the report said.

Apple has a list of demands before it can start making iPhones in India

For months, tech-giant Apple has been seeking ways to enter the Indian market while upholding 'business facets' - minimum risk and maximum profit. However, if Tim Cook thought he would have it easy with India, he's probably mistaken - Indians are admirably better at setting terms and conditions of a bargain than most others.

Last month, Apple announced plans to make iPhones for the Indian market in Bengaluru in association with Wistron, a Taiwanese OEM manufacturer for Apple and will start production by April 2017.

According to reports published in The Business Standard, Foxconn, the biggest contract manufacturer for Apple has also been roped in to set up a manufacturing unit in India.

Apple wants to replicate its China success in India - But it has conditions that the government needs to look into.

What Apple wants from the government

1. 15-year custom duty exemption
2. Concessions like relaxation in labelling rules

3. Used smartphones to assemble locally

What does the government have to say about this?

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