Facebook is set to launch its Libra cryptocurrency in 2020, but as early as now, the social media company is already making preparations to make Libra customer-friendly.
Facebook Buys Servicefriend
Facebook has reportedly acquired Servicefriend, an Israel-based startup that builds bots that chat and interact with clients via text and messaging apps using artificial intelligence.
The firm's technology enables humans to take over when the bots do not know how to handle a situation.
The firm's CEO, Shahar Ben Ami, has updated his LinkedIn page, which now shows that he is a product manager at Facebook's Calibra, the newly formed Facebook subsidiary tasked to provide financial services that will allow people to access and participate in the Libra network.
Facebook earlier said that the first product Calibra will introduce is a digital wallet for Libra, which will be made available in Messenger, WhatsApp, and as a standalone app.
Servicefriend's other founder Ido Arad and the startup's VP R&D also updated their LinkedIn profile with similar information. Their new jobs started this September, suggesting that the acquisition closed in recent weeks.
Building Bots For Calibra Digital Wallet Users
Facebook did not specify what Ben Ami and colleagues will be working on, but it will likely involve building a bot or a network of bots for the customer service that will cater to Calibra digital wallet users.
"We acquire smaller tech companies from time to time. We don't always discuss our plans," a Facebook spokesperson said, according to TechCrunch.
Facebook has previously promised that the digital wallet will come with a dedicated live support.
"When it launches, Calibra will have strong protections in place to keep your money and your information safe," Facebook said. "We'll also offer dedicated live support to help if you lose your phone or your password — and if someone fraudulently gains access to your account and you lose some Libra as a result, we'll offer you a refund."
The startup has previously worked with Facebook to build hybrid bots for the social media's Messenger service so companies that use the messaging app can provide better customer service.
Facebook has said that Servicefriend-developed hybrid bots for Messenger provides 22 percent higher customer satisfaction rate.
