Facebook ViewPoint was a video calling device made by Facebook that launched in 2019. It was designed to be used in the home for video calls and featured a smart camera that automatically kept users in frame as they moved around. However, Facebook discontinued ViewPoint in 2021 after less than two years on the market.
Why did Facebook discontinue ViewPoint?
There were a few key reasons why Facebook ended up shutting down ViewPoint:
- Lack of demand – ViewPoint failed to gain traction with consumers. Many felt the $199 price tag was too high for a video chat-only device.
- Internal division – ViewPoint was developed by Facebook’s experimental hardware group known as Building 8. This group was plagued by internal tensions and shifts in strategy.
- Privacy concerns – Facebook faced backlash over privacy implications of putting an internet-connected camera made by Facebook in people’s homes.
- Competition – Dedicated video chat devices faced increasing competition from smart displays, tablets, phones, and PCs which offered video chatting features.
Ultimately the product failed to carve out a place in the market and was shuttered after less than two years.
What are the alternatives to ViewPoint for video calls?
There are many options consumers can use for video chatting and calls now that ViewPoint is no longer available. Here are some of the top alternatives:
Smart Displays
Smart displays like Amazon Echo Show, Google Nest Hub Max and Facebook Portal provide video chat capabilities along with other helpful smart features. The camera automatically keeps users in frame during video calls. Prices range from about $100 to $250.
Tablets and Phones
Mobile devices like iPads, Android tablets, iPhones and Android phones allow video calls through apps like FaceTime, WhatsApp, Google Duo and more. Prices vary widely depending on the device. Front-facing cameras keep users in frame.
Laptops and Desktops
Using the webcam built into a computer, whether Windows PC, Mac, Chromebook or other, enables video chatting through apps like Zoom, Skype or Webex. The webcam frame can be adjusted manually in most cases.
Third-Party Cameras
Dedicated cameras like those from Logitech can enhance video and audio quality for desktop computer video calling. Prices range from about $50 to $250 for most consumer models.
Smart TVs
Many modern smart TVs have built-in cameras and mics, or USB ports where peripherals can be connected. This allows apps like Skype or Zoom to be used for video calls directly on a TV screen.
What features are important in a video chat device?
When evaluating dedicated video chat devices, there are a few key features to consider:
- Field of view – Wider angles keep more people/space visible.
- Camera resolution – Higher resolution provides more detail.
- Auto-framing – Automatically keeps subjects centered in frame.
- Microphone quality – Multiple mics improve audio pickup.
- Speaker quality – Better speakers make conversations more audible.
- Smart features – Options like face tracking, lighting adjustment, etc.
- Privacy controls – Shutters/switches to disable camera and microphone.
- Display – Devices with integrated screens add helpful visuals.
- Apps – Compatibility with leading video chat apps like Zoom, Skype, etc.
- Price – More expensive devices typically have better quality and more features.
How do leading video chat solutions compare?
Here is an overview comparing some of the top dedicated video chat devices on the market:
| Device | Camera Resolution | Field of View | Auto Framing | Audio Pickup | Smart Features | Privacy Controls | Apps Supported | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Facebook Portal | 12MP | 114° | Yes | 4 microphones | Smart Camera | Shutter | Messenger, Zoom, more | $129+ |
| Amazon Echo Show | 1MP | 110° | Yes | 4 microphones | Alexa assistant | Shutter, mic switch | Skype, Zoom, more | $84+ |
| Google Nest Hub Max | 6.5MP | 120° | Yes | 3 microphones | Google Assistant | Shutter, mic switch | Duo, Meet, Skype, more | $179 |
| Lenovo Smart Clock Essential | 3MP | 121° | No | 2 microphones | Google Assistant | Mic switch | Duo, Skype | $49 |
As the table illustrates, there are a variety of options at different price points. Key factors to compare include camera quality, viewing angle, audio pickup, smart features, supported apps and privacy controls.
What are the privacy concerns around video chat devices?
There are a few privacy-related concerns that consumers may have regarding video chat devices:
- Hacking – Internet-connected cameras could get hacked, allowing outsiders to spy through them.
- Data collection – Companies may collect usage data from the devices to target ads or product recommendations.
- Government requests – Agencies like law enforcement could request access to footage through warrants.
- Unauthorized access – Household members, maintenance workers or others could access the device and view/listen without consent.
- Always-on tracking – The potential for devices to monitor continuously even when not in active use.
However, there are steps companies take to mitigate these risks, including:
- Encryption – Securing data in transit and storage using encryption.
- Security patches – Regular software updates to fix vulnerabilities.
- Indicators – Lights/sounds that indicate when camera/mic are active.
- Physical covers – Shutters or lens covers to physically block the camera.
- Mic switches – Easy way to electrically disable mic pick up.
- Local processing – Analyzing footage on device vs cloud to limit data sharing.
Being informed about how different products address privacy and leveraging available controls are good ways for consumers to reduce concerns.
What role will virtual reality and augmented reality play in the future of video communication?
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) introduce new possibilities for video communication and collaboration:
- Immersive environments – VR allows people to meet and interact in realistic virtual settings.
- Digital avatars – computer-generated avatars transmit nonverbal cues like eye contact and gestures.
- Spatial audio – 3D sound localization makes conversations more natural.
- Holograms – AR can overlay lifelike holograms of participants in a real space.
- Virtual touch – Haptics and force feedback may simulate gestures like handshakes.
- Visual aids – AR enhances conversations by overlaying contextual data and visuals.
Key benefits of VR and AR communication include:
- Natural interactions – Spatial audio, avatars, haptics and AR visuals aid communication.
- Increased empathy – Immersive environments and avatars may promote understanding.
- Reduced barriers – Virtual meetings reduce the need for physical proximity or travel.
- Enhanced collaboration – 3D visuals, models and virtual whiteboards enable collaboration.
- Personalization – Customizing virtual environments to match preferences.
Challenges still to be addressed include cost, eyestrain, motion sickness, technical glitches and privacy implications. But VR and AR promise to complement and enhance video communication in new ways as the technology evolves.
Conclusion
Facebook ViewPoint represented an attempt to establish dedicated video chat devices for the home. However, its discontinuation illustrates the challenges in this market. Consumers have many options available through mobile devices, computers, smart displays and third-party peripherals that offer flexibility and features for video calling. As virtual and augmented reality mature, they may open up additional possibilities for enhancing video communication and collaboration down the road. But for now, consumers have a robust selection of alternatives for home video chat needs sans ViewPoint.