Facebook looks to the future with amazing new technology

Facebook looks to the future with amazing new technology

In his quest for world domination, Mark Zuckerberg has set his Facebook army to work. From Wi-Fi helicopters to new camera technology, the social giant unveiled some amazing new technology at the recent F8 developers conference. There was some freaky mind-control stuff — but maybe life under King Zuck wouldn’t be so bad after all.

– Facebook software can replicate the iPhone 7’s Portrait mode on any smartphone

– New patch could allow deaf people to “hear” through their skin

– Tiny helicopters will be bring Wi-Fi to people in disaster zones

– Research underway on mind-control typing technology

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCIiwWbdOio

As millennials start to look elsewhere for their social kicks, Facebook is fighting to stay relevant. In the short term, it has control over two major alternatives: Instagram and Whatsapp. Looking into the future, Facebook believes augmented reality (AR) could rock our world.

At this year’s F8 conference, Mark Zuckerberg announced a brand new AR platform for developers. Instead of boring masks, users will soon be able to choose from 3D effects when sharing photo messages. Think of Pikachu sitting next to you, or the words “Breakfast Time” rising out of your cereal. If this sounds like Snapchat, it’s because Facebook is blatantly ripping off their competitor.

amazing new technology Facebook

To enhance your photos further, Facebook has managed to replicate the Portrait mode of the Apple iPhone 7. The difference is, you will get those beautiful blurred backgrounds on any smartphone — no second lens required.

Amazing New Technology

While photo filters are fun, Facebook also offered a glimpse at some really meaningful technology.

For instance, the Building 8 team within the company is working on mind control. No, this isn’t Zuckerberg taking over your thoughts again; it’s hands-free typing. The idea is to allow people with physical disabilities to interact with computers. Eventually, the software could go more mainstream.

amazing new technology Facebook

Another research project hopes to create a hearing aid that syphons vibrations from your skin to your inner ear. While this would not be exactly like hearing, it could provide deaf people with better awareness of their surroundings.

amazing new technology Facebook

Finally, Facebook wants to send tiny tethered Wi-Fi helicopters to disaster areas. It is hoped that the improved connectivity could help relief workers and lost people.

[tweet_box]Facebook has unveiled some amazing new technology at the recent F8 developers conference[/tweet_box]

Things We ❤️

For once, disabled people are getting technology they can be excited about.

Room for Improvement

If you dislike Facebook, you’re out of luck.

amazing new technology Facebook

Availability

The augmented reality stuff will be appearing soon in the Facebook apps on your phone. Everything else will be later. That’s about as specific as we can be, based on the vague announcements.

Which of these many projects excites you the most? Tell us in the comments!

Mark is best known for writing about apps, but he also loves the tactile, hardware side of technology. Being a professional photographer, he's pretty handy with a camera, and he's a self-confessed tweetaholic.
Join the Discussion

You Might Also Like

10 No-gimmick Amazon Prime Day gaming deals: Laptops, monitors, processors, and consoles
10 No-gimmick Amazon Prime Day gaming deals: Laptops, monitors, processors, and consoles
If you’ve been browsing Prime Day gaming deals in recent years, you know the game. Too often, Amazon slaps the “deal” tag on something that’s been sitting with the same price for weeks. As someone who basically lives on Amazon..
These Prime Day travel deals are the only ones I’d actually pack
These Prime Day travel deals are the only ones I’d actually pack
After years of international travel, I’ve learned one thing: packing smart makes all the difference. And now that Prime Day travel deals are officially live, I’m highlighting the gear I personally use and recommend: power banks that don’t weigh you..
I’m super picky—but these are the best Amazon Prime Day deals worth your money
I’m super picky—but these are the best Amazon Prime Day deals worth your money
I’ve covered Amazon Prime Day deals for years. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: not everything on sale is actually a deal. In fact, a lot of brands hike up their list prices before Prime Day, only..
The iFLYTEK AINOTE Air 2: Precision Productivity for the Demanding Professional
The iFLYTEK AINOTE Air 2: Precision Productivity for the Demanding Professional
In an era of constant notifications, open tabs, and scattered thoughts, organizing information has become more valuable than simply capturing it. For professionals navigating multilingual meetings, dense research, or critical interviews, turning raw input into meaningful action is the challenge...
Smart kitchen faucet skeptic? These 8 picks totally won me over
Smart kitchen faucet skeptic? These 8 picks totally won me over
I write about new gadgets for a living. And while I love sharing the latest tech news with you, when it comes to my own stuff, I tend to stick with the tried and true. So when a friend suggested..
These pro-grade laser cutters let you create custom projects from home or your studio
These pro-grade laser cutters let you create custom projects from home or your studio
Turn Your Ideas Into Precision-Crafted Products Ever wished you could make your own signage, personalized gifts, prototypes, or decor all with a professional-grade finish? Whether you’re a designer, small business owner, educator, or hobbyist, laser cutting machines open the door..