There have been rumors about Facebook developing a pair of smart devices with 15-inch touchscreens. These devices were going to be released months ago- at its f8 developer conference this past May. However, after Cambridge Analytica scandal, they decided to postpone the whole project. The company has been working on the Facebook smart display for a while now and finally, they will unveil the video-chat devices soon. They have reportedly named the Facebook smart display “portal” and it could come out as early as next week.
Facebook smart display features and price
In nine days, in October, there is now talk about Facebook unveiling two new smart displays as soon as next week. The code name of the devices is “Portal,”.
The price of the larger model is going to be about $400 and the smaller screened version $300. That would put it above the pricing of Amazon’s Echo Show, which is selling for $230.
According to an anonymous source who is familiar with Facebook’s plan, the smart displays will feature a wide-angle camera that uses AI to recognize the people seen on the display- even when they are walking around the room. But don’t worry about privacy! You can block the camera with an on-device shutter.
One of the greatest features of Facebook smart display is having Amazon’s Alexa as its virtual personal assistant. A number of reports describe the device as a smart display device similar to Amazon’s Echo Show. In fact, Cheddar reported this week that Facebook is relying on Amazon’s Alexa smart assistant for voice control.
Alexa lets users watch news capsules, follow a recipe, view YouTube videos and see song lyrics while streaming music. It also offers video chat and other social features. Facebook employees have tested the “Portal” at home and retailers have been shown the product by the company.
