Facebook is developing a smartwatch that will allow users to send messages using Facebook services like WhatsApp and Messenger while also monitoring their health. The new wearable will work with a cellular connection with no need for a smartphone.
The Information reports:
Facebook is building a smartwatch it hopes to start selling next year, according to people with direct knowledge of the device. The watch will let wearers send messages using Facebook’s services and also offer health and fitness features, according to four of those people.
The watch is said to run a version of Google’s Android operating system and will offer the ability to connect to services offered by Peloton and other health and fitness companies. The watch will feature workout tracking, and the ability to communicate with trainers.
Facebook plans to sell the new smartwatch at a price that is close to its production cost. No price has been set in stone as yet.
Facebook will likely face privacy concerns over health and fitness data, as the company is built on data collection and will likely require users to agree to data sharing.
The report says that development is “far along,” and that Facebook is aiming to start selling its smartwatch next year. A second-generation is expected as soon as 2023. Of course, Facebook could scrap the project before it hits shelves, so stay tuned.
The Facebook Watch will, of course, compete with the Apple Watch. A report from earlier today said that more than 100 million people around the world now own and wear an Apple Watch. The report said Apple Watch adoption greatly accelerated in 2020.