The social media giant is reportedly getting into the ever-crowded smart speaker market, according to DigiTimes. The site says Facebook will launch two smart speakers in July. The smart speakers will reportedly each have a 15-inch touch screen with the code names Aloha and Fiona. Aloha will reportedly be the high-end version and will be marketed under the name Portal. It will use voice recognition and facial recognition technology to recognize users. Along with the smart speakers will be a music streaming service, with Sony and Universal Music already signed on to a licensing deal with Facebook.
Facebook is set to join Amazon and Apple in the voice-activated speaker market with the July launch of two smart devices. Codenamed Fiona and Aloha, both come with a 15-inch touchscreen, while its premium product Aloha – set to be sold under the name Portal – features facial and voice recognition technology. The speakers are designed for use by people who have hearing loss or other disabilities, but also can work as standalone devices that will connect to your smartphone.