What to expect from Facebook’s event Thursday

Last week, Facebook Inc. invited journalists to attend a big announcement event Thursday morning, but since then, dozens of reports have come out about what Facebook might unveil.

And all those reports have left us with a pretty good idea of what to expect.

The event is set for 10 a.m. and will be held at Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park, Calif. Here’s what we think will go down, but, of course, you may still want to tune in just in case Facebook throws us a curveball.

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Facebook Home

Numerous reports say Facebook will announce a modified version of Google’s Android mobile operating system, which is expected to be called Facebook Home. If that is the case, then Facebook alluded to it in its invite to the media last week.

“Come see our new Home on Android,� Facebook says on the invitation.

Facebook Home isn’t expected to be as modified as what Amazon did to Android for its Kindle Fire tablets, but the altered version of Android is expected to focus on everything Facebook. Reports say the modified OS will make it easier for users to post status updates and other types of content on Facebook.

But of course, every operating system needs a device to operate it, which leads us to...

HTC First

Countless reports have now come out saying HTC will be the manufacturing partner for Facebook’s smartphone. The device is expected to be called the HTC First, and it is believed to look a lot like the iPhone.

Some reports say the First will be slightly taller than the iPhone, but it will feature a circular button toward the bottom, just like the Apple smartphone. To the sides of that button will also be icons like the ones found on Android devices that react to users touch.

The device, which may feature a 4.3-inch screen, is said to be available in multiple colors. Images of the alleged Facebook HTC phone show the device may be available in black, white, red and light blue. Surprisingly, there doesn’t seem to be a version that features Facebook’s deep blue color.

If Facebook and HTC are indeed teaming up, it wouldn’t be too surprising. The pair worked together on two smartphones back in 2011 that featured a dedicated button with Facebook’s logo that could be used to check in.

That’s what the latest rumors say, but check back with us Thursday morning as we cover the event live.

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