Thu. Mar 28th, 2024

According to a report by The Information, Facebook, the social networking giant, is currently working on smartwatches, which will constitute Facebook’s efforts towards creating an ecosystem. The smartwatch will be Android-powered, however, it is uncertain whether the smartwatch will run on Google’s WearOS, as reports suggest that Facebook is also working on its very own custom Operating Software for its upcoming gadgets.

Reportedly, the smartwatch will have messaging, health, and fitness features, like other smartwatches, currently present in the market. The upcoming smartwatch will be a part of Facebook’s Oculus virtual reality headsets and Portal video chat services, contributing to Facebook’s hardware ecosystem. The watch will be launched with cellular support, allowing the users to browse through the Facebook apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook Messenger directly from the watch.

The smartwatch market is currently dominated by Apple Inc’s Apple Watch and Huawei GT 2 Pro. Samsung has also entered the market with Galaxy Watch. Apple Watch is the most popular choice among users because of its unique features. Both the watches run on custom OS and Facebook is also expected to launch the smartwatch with custom built OS.

Facebook is not considered a trustworthy brand, especially because of its controversial business model, which involves sharing sensitive information with alliance companies for advertisements. The upcoming smartwatch from the firm, with software and hardware being developed by Facebook, raises serious privacy issues as the smartwatch, being connected with the user’s mobile phone, can access the notifications and other personal information from the device.

It is difficult to predict the market performance of the upcoming smartwatch. Facebook has not revealed any launch date, but the smartwatch is expected to be released during the latter part of this year.

Regardless, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg seems to be serious about the hardware ventures. Facebook has joined hands with premium glass manufacturer Ray-Ban and is currently working on developing smart-glass with augmented reality features.

The project is named Project Aria. Facebook also captured CTRL-labs, which is a neural interface start-up, to work on wristbands that can be controlled wirelessly through neural transmissions from the user’s brain. Facebook can incorporate this technology with their upcoming gadgets like a smartwatch, smart-glass, or future Oculus headsets.