I know what is the situation for Cortana and how Microsoft is moving slowly about it. Moreover, Paul and Brad discussed the situation many times in articles and podcasts. However, I think Microsoft revealed more about their strategy. Their OEM introduced 2 laptops at IFA, and I quote from The Verge that “Lenovo’s Yoga 920 laptop is basically a home speaker. It responds to Cortana commands even if it’s closed and you’re more than two feet away. Acer’s Spin 5 convertible features Cortana and can register commands up to 13 feet away”.
I could be wrong but I feel that Microsoft might think there is no need of standalone home speaker if you can use your PC or your laptop as a home Speaker.
Bats
<p>First of all, Cortana is not even in the same league as Google Assistant. Microsoft has to improve on that. Second, you're gonna put a Lenovo Yoga 920 in the kitchen or in another communal area, with all your data in it? </p><p><br></p><p>Cortana is not popular on Android or iOS, what makes you think people are going to use it on a PC? The Lenovo Yoda is starts at $650. For that money, you can buy 6-7 Google Homes or Amazon Echos and place them in all or most of your rooms. This is far better and more convenient for elderly people then to shout at your Lenovo PC that is probably separated by rooms and walls.</p>