San Francisco

APPLE Inc is already in your pocket, on your desk and underneath your television. Soon, a device embossed with "Designed by Apple in California" may be on your nightstand or kitchen counter as well.

The iPhone-maker has started manufacturing a long-in-the-works Siri-controlled smart speaker, according to people familiar with the matter. Apple could debut the speaker as soon as this month, at its annual developer conference, but the device will not be ready to ship until later in the year, they said. The device will differ from Amazon.com Inc's Echo and Alphabet Inc's Google Home speakers by offering virtual surround sound technology and deep integration with Apple's product lineup, said the people, who requested anonymity to discuss products that aren't yet public.