Facebook is creating a video chat device featuring a laptop-sized touchscreen and smart camera technology that will supposedly make people feel like they’re in the same room. The idea may not sound exciting in itself, but it should give us an idea of what the company is capable of in the hardware space: it’ll be the first major product from its experimental Building 8 lab, which is rumored to be working on a smart speaker as well.



The new devices represent a new phase in Facebook’s hardware ambitions. Though the company sells the Oculus virtual reality headset, it acquired its maker and didn’t create the original product. Last year, the Building 8 lab was set up to help Facebook develop its own hardware and keep consumers locked into its ecosystem — the news feed, Facebook live, video calling and more.

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Source: [H]ardOCP – Facebook Is Working on a Video Chat Device