It may not exist just yet but this afternoon Facebook announced they are one step closer to bringing about a social calling service for mobile devices.
The partnership with Orange is a move in the right direction for Facebook as they deepen their ties with mobile networks and further involve themselves with how users interact with their devices.
The announcement came after the deal was struck between the multinational network provider and Facebook to offer a “social calling” service available to both mobile and desktop users.
The partnership further expands on the idea that users will be able to call friends and family and make group calls without the need for a mobile number.
Orange have put pen to paper and agreed to power the network service which will run in conjunction with its new IP-based calling and messaging app, Libon, which is available on both iPhone and Android devices in 2013.
A spokesperson for Orange made this statement earlier today:
“This is about developing voice and innovating in social voice.”
Facebook’s social calling service is due to launch in France next summer, however France Telecom have network powers which extend to that of neighbouring countries.
Facebook connected with France Telecom previously to provide several other Facebook services on low-end mobile devices in Africa.
The latest development saw France Telecom allow carrier’s billing for Facebook’s services which became active in France this week.
Rumours are circulating social media outlets as to the next move from Facebook and Orange, some have even gone as far as to
design a ‘concept’ Facebook mobile device.
The rumours were launched into the social stratosphere after a spokesperson from Orange declined to neither confirm nor deny plans for a Facebook mobile, only saying:
“We have an on-going relationship with them (Facebook) and we are friends”
More on this story as it develops so stay tuned to Jungle on twitter for updates!
