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According to Cheddar, the smart device that Facebook plans to launch for months could be available in the coming weeks.
Anonymous sources told Cheddar that the device, called the "Portal", was originally due to be unveiled in May at the F8 conference, but that announcement was delayed. Consumer concerns over privacy following the Cambridge Analytica scandal prompted Facebook not to advertise the product, reported Cheddar.
But the new launch date could be as early as next week. In January, Cheddar said the device would resemble Amazon's echo and be voice-driven with video capabilities and facial recognition.
The camera would have a privacy shutter that could cover the wide-angle lens when users do not want the camera to be able to recognize or capture anything around it. Cheddar reports that when the shutter is not on the camera, it will be able to track people in the room with the camera while using facial recognition technology.
In addition to facial recognition, the portal will probably do many of the things that other assistants do. This includes music playback, news broadcasting and more, such as the ability for users to chat with their friends. Facebook employees have been using the portal for months to test it and become familiar with the product before it is made available to consumers.
Once released, the Portal device could cost $ 499, reported Cheddar in January before the release of the home assistant was delayed. This price would place it well above other similar devices offered by Amazon.
If Facebook publishes Portal this week, it will be just for the holiday season for those looking for a home assistant for themselves, a friend or a family member. This could help position the product as a serious competitor with other assistants.
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Facebook did not immediately respond to Newsweek & # 39; s request for comments on the existence of the portal or on any future publication.
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