Facebook Messenger finally gets end-to-end encryption on voice, video calls

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

Facebook Messenger had end-to-end encryption in its messages before. But now, Facebook is bringing this security feature to voice and video calls, too. These types of communication became especially important during the pandemic, with Facebook citing over 150 million video calls a day. It isn't available in group voice, chats, and video calls yet, but the company said it would test this out with some users in the coming weeks.

End-to-end encryption offers the assurance that only you and the recipient will get access to what's in your calls and messages. Facebook won't be able to read or listen to your calls. But you can report an end-to-end encrypted message to the company if "something's wrong," which presumably refers to situations involving harassment.

Click to read more ...

LG TVs to get dedicated support for Facebook's Portal TV

Soon it'll be much easier to set up and use Facebook's Portal TV with LG TVs. A new firmware update (version 6.0) coming to webOS-powered televisions will allow users to just plug the device into an HDMI port, and it will be detected. A pop-up notice will allow for quick access from the dashboard or webOS home screen. Once you've set it up, you can control the Portal TV app using LG's Magic Remote.

Facebook's Portal TV supports apps like Messenger and WhatsApp as well as Zoom, Workplace, and GoToMeeting for video calls. So, for users who want a bigger screen to make video calls on, this LG update will make it easier for you.

Source: Engadget

Facebook set to introduce its podcast platform next week

Facebook

Facebook hasn't been shy about sharing what it plans in the audio space. We learn that the company is almost ready to launch its podcast platform, which is coming to Facebook next Tuesday. Facebook has been sending out emails to podcast creators informing them that a new podcast page will go live on June 22. This page will allow Facebook users to listen directly from there. A new Podcasts tab will also be introduced into the social media site.

Like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more, anyone can set up an RSS feed to add a podcast to Facebook. Once the show is approved, any new episode will automatically be uploaded there. You can unpublish or remove your podcast at any time.

Click to read more ...

Facebook's Oculus acquires 'Population: One' battle royale developer BigBox VR

Facebook is bringing more interesting content to its VR platform. The company's Oculus arm just acquired BigBox VR, the developer behind Population: One, a Fortnite-esque battle royale game. The developer will continue to support the game on its existing platforms, and it still plans to expand the title. So, those who play the game on a non-Oculus device can continue to do so.

Source: Engadget