Facebook to Launch Video Chat Device this Year

It was rumored that Facebook is working on a video chat device. Now financial website Cheddar has confirmed that the device, named “Portal,” will be announced in May with a planned release for late 2018. And it will cost $499. Facebook to Launch Video Chat Device this Year.

Facebook’s first consumer device will be designed in such a way that family and friends will stay in touch with video chat and various social features. Facebook’s Portal will use voice commands similar to Amazon’s Echo Show. Through a wide-angle lens on the front of the device, it will also include facial recognition to identify users. Moreover Portal will be able to connect to streaming services like Netflix or Spotify.

Facebook to Launch Video Chat Device this Year

According to a report. the Facebook Portal, like other smart screens, will not be only limited to video calls. It will also be able to play music and stream video.

It is not so clear that what advantages the company will get with video chat on a dedicated hardware device compared to phones and personal computers. Because Facebook Messenger has already video chat in option via on phones and on PCs. On other hand some of Facebook’s biggest rivals are already ruling in the market.

However, Facebook said that this is just the beginning, and in future there will be a whole suite of Facebook-designed products.

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