Facebook prepping two smart speakers for July 2018 launch

Posted on Monday, February 19 2018 @ 12:51 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
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Another tech giant is about to enter the smart speaker market. We already have models from Amazon, Apple and Google, and now word is going around that Facebook is working on two smart speakers of its own. These devices are expected to be introduced in July 2018, the codenames are "Aloha" and "Fiona".

The Facebook smart speakers will reportedly feature 15" touchscreen panels from LG Display. Both models will be positioned as new tools to stay in touch with friends and family, via video chat and other social features.

Aloha will be the most advanced model, this version will feature smart camera technology:
The sources said that the Aloha model is more sophisticated than Fiona, both designed by Facebook's Building 8 hardware lab. The Aloha model, to be marketed under the official name Portal, will use voice commands but will also feature facial recognition to identify users for accessing Facebook via a wide-angle lens on the front of the device.

The Portal device will come with more social networking functions, and Facebook has signed music licensing contracts with Sony and Universal Music to enrich the device's applications, the sources indicated.
DigiTimes explains smart speakers are the first salvo from Facebook. The social networking site aims to build its own ecosystem for video consumer devices, and has several launches planned in the next five years.


About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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