Facebook has been rumored to be working on a TV chat device in the past. It’s a weird hybrid device that’ll likely go under the company’s infamous Portal brand and compete with the likes of Apple TV, Roku, etc.

Facebook’s TV chat device is reportedly supposed to allow users to make calls on their TV via the device while being able to stream video. It’s basically like an Apple TV with the ability to make calls.

Facebook is now reportedly in talks with multiple video streaming services for the new device. Codenamed Catalina, the new device will likely be launched this Fall, according to a report from The Information. Facebook has approached Netflix, Disney, Hulu, HBO, and Amazon to support the device by bringing their respective streaming services to the device.

The device will also come with a physical remote.

It is very interesting to see Facebook continuing to push ahead with Portal products despite all the privacy concerns around the company’s brand. Although this new hybrid TV device does sound cool, do you really want a Facebook-built camera near your TV?

Tagged with Facebook, Facebook Portal, Portal