Huawei AI Cube Launches as a Unique Smart Home Speaker

The IFA 2018 event in Berlin saw Huawei debut the AI Cube, a smart speaker that merges innovative design with practical connectivity. Unlike traditional cubic shapes, the AI Cube features a tapered cylindrical form, somewhat reminiscent of Google Home. However, Huawei distinguishes its device by integrating Amazon Alexa as the digital assistant and embedding a 4G router directly into the hardware.

Powered by Alexa, the AI Cube provides users with access to a broad range of smart capabilities, supported by ongoing developer enhancements. Notably, Huawei does not currently have its own digital assistant, a strategic choice that may prove wise given the strong competition from established players like Google Assistant and Apple HomePod.

A key differentiator of the AI Cube is its role as a home networking hub. Equipped with an LTE Cat 6 modem and an 802.11 ac WiFi adapter, the device serves as a capable router, leveraging Huawei's reputation for connectivity solutions. On the audio side, the speaker includes four microphones and a 15W mono driver, augmented by Huawei's proprietary Histen technology. This tech offers features such as virtual bass, adaptive gain control, and a linear phase equalizer, aiming to deliver enriched sound quality despite the single-speaker setup.

Huawei has not disclosed details regarding battery life or pricing. The AI Cube is expected to launch in European markets by the end of 2018, with no plans for release in the United States or China, suggesting limited availability in broader Asian markets as well. Despite its unconventional shape and some unspecified technical details, the Huawei AI Cube presents an intriguing option in the smart speaker landscape.