Facebook rumoured to launch Portal video chat device to rival Amazon Echo

The social media company is thought to be working on some intriguing hardware
New gadget: Facebook is thought to be working on a video call device to rival Amazon Echo Show
AP
Ben Travis10 January 2018

Facebook is thought to be working on its first piece of major hardware – a video chat device.

The company is rumoured to be launching a gadget called Portal, with a possible reveal later this year.

According to a report on Cheddar, Portal will feature a laptop-sized touch screen and smart camera tech.

The unit could also boast AI features, and is said to be positioned primarily as a social device for video chatting in the home.

Portal’s closest rival is likely to be Amazon’s Echo Show, the first smart speaker with a screen. The gadget offers voice controlled functions with Alexa, as well as video calls and the ability to stream video content.

Smart speakers - in pictures

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It is thought that Portal will include facial recognition software that will scan the faces of users on a call and automatically link to their Facebook profile.

According to Cheddar, the device could be officially announced in May with a view to a late 2018 release.

Facebook’s current hardware offering consists of its acquisition of Oculus Rift, the virtual reality tech company.

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