Akai plans to release an open-source MPC Sample Key, according to The Verge. Akai teased the device on Instagram and said it will open-source its software so the modding community can modify it. The publication reports it received exclusive images of the instrument. Akai has not announced a launch date or price.
The Verge reports that the Sample Key shares several controls with the MPC Sample, including three context-sensitive encoders and a large main encoder. Unlike the MPC Sample, it appears designed for pitched sample playback rather than drum chopping. The "chop" button is missing. The device has dedicated pitch and mod wheels, buttons to change the octave range of its 25-key keyboard, and buttons labeled "chord" and "arp." The Verge says these likely enable a chord playback mode and an arpeggiator, though it notes that the functions are not confirmed.
The images also show a dedicated looper and a feature called "Swarm," which replaces the MPC Sample's Flex Beat effects. The Verge says it is not clear what Swarm does. According to the report, the Sample Key has a built-in mic and speaker. The front panel suggests it will include CV outs for modular synths, in addition to MIDI. The back panel has not been shown.