SocialEyes has released a new service for video chatting through Facebook.
To avail the service users have to log in to SocialEyes using Facebook Connect. They can then video chat with their Facebook friends either individually or in groups. They can also send an offline video message.
The groups function connects users by specific topics depending on their profile. Users can have both private and public groups, and there is no limit to how many groups one can join.
In 1995, Glaser started RealNetworks but stepped down as its chief executive last year. He remains chairman. He is now the chairman in SocialEyes, with ex-Microsoft and RealNetworks executive Rob Williams as cofounder and CEO.
Williams compares the service to a physical office. However the service is not a new one. There are already several companies offering similar services including Skype, Apple’s FaceTime and Google’s video chat. SocialEyes is different because it leverages the social element, said Williams.
Users can create chat groups in SocialEyes, which connects users by making use of their Facebook IDs.
The founders have no immediate plans to monetise the service. But among possible revenue generating possibilities are in marketing and education. It could also be used as virtual offices, for which the company could sell a premium version to businesses.
Glaser said to be successful, such services should build a huge user base and must have a viral element.
Glaser said the service "brings together four powerful elements for the first time — the Facebook Social Graph, no-download Flash video, a group system that lets people easily connect with other people in meaningful ways, and a Twitter-like feed."
The company is also building a mobile app for the service.
