E-commerce giant, Amazon, has ramped up its smart home portfolio, following reports its developed at least eight new Alexa-powered devices – including a microwave and subwoofer – to launch this year.

According to CNBC, Amazon will unveiled a slew of Alexa-powered smart home devices at an event later this month.

The range will reportedly encompass audio, automobile and home appliance categories.

It comes as other consumer electronic giants – e.g. Samsung, LG and Lenovo – continue to expand their connected home hubs, integrating smart assistant functionality as the central glue.

Thus far, Samsung has kept its in-house voice assistant ‘Bixby’ as its primary assistant, however, it’s new range of soundbars do offer support for Amazon’s Alexa.

By contrast, LG and Lenovo have largely gravitated towards Google Assistant.

Reports suggest Amazon’s new smart home range will include an Alexa-powered subwoofer, amplifier, receiver, microwave and car gadget.

Some of the devices will have Alexa built-in, though all will support the virtual assistant – e.g. connected via Amazon’s Echo smart speaker.

Commentators claim an Amazon-branded smart microwave is a major indicator the e-commerce giant has set its sights upon a whole home ecosystem. The device is considered its first foray into smart home appliances.