Facebook to release a smartwatch next year, report says
The device will reportedly have two cameras and a heart rate monitor.
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Facebook has already been experimenting with neural wristband technology.
A rumored smartwatch from Facebook could make its debut next summer. The social network plans to release a smartwatch with two cameras for taking photos and video, as well as health features like a heart rate monitor, according to a report Wednesday from The Verge, citing two people familiar with the project.
The first version of the smartwatch is expected to be released in the summer 2022, according to The Verge. It could reportedly cost around $400, though the price may change. The smartwatch will support LTE connectivity and come in colors including white, black and gold, according to the report.
Facebook declined to comment but pointed to tweets from Andrew Bosworth, vice president of AR and VR at Facebook.
"We've said we want AR glasses to be truly useful -- we're investing in technologies across the board that will make that interaction feel more natural and intuitive," Bosworth said in a tweet Wednesday responding to the report. "This includes research like EMG, haptics, adaptive interfaces that could come together in a wrist-based form factor."
Bosworth added that "research doesn't always lead to product development," but said the company will share more when its ready.
Facebook has publicly discussed its work on wrist-worn technology that can sense neural signals and measure hand and finger gestures, with haptic feedback. The company has said it envisions this technology one day working alongside Facebook's upcoming AR smart glasses.
Earlier this year, The Information reported that Facebook was working on a smartwatch focused on messaging and health and fitness features.