Amazon to release voice-controlled Echo speakers in UK

Ecommerce giant Amazon has announced the pending arrival of its Echo speakers to the United Kingdom this autumn.

Until now the Bluetooth-enabled devices were only available to buy in the United States, but they were launched at an event held by Amazon on Wednesday.

The speaker makes use of Amazon's virtual assistant Alexa, which allows the user to control it completely handsfree with the use of their voice alone.

Amazon has been joined by various partners who will provide services for Echo in the UK, including Uber, Spotify, and Sky Sports.

Echo will go on sale via Amazon for £149.99, with a discount being made available to Prime customers.

Jeff Bezos' company continues to rise after reporting its third consecutive record profit in July, with revenue rising 31% for the quarter.

The success has coincided with the company's focus on its Amazon Prime service, which uses a monthly subscription model, but offers members various deals and discounts on products.