Facebook Inc is planning to launch a gaming mobile app on April 20 focused mainly on live game streaming in a bid to take on Amazon.com Inc's Twitch, Google's YouTube and Microsoft Corp's Mixer services, the New York Times reported on April 19.

Facebook Gaming was originally scheduled to be released in June, but the company moved up its plans as coronavirus quarantine keeps people at home, the report said.

"Investing in gaming in general has become a priority for us because we see gaming as a form of entertainment that really connects people," the newspaper quoted Fidji Simo, head of the gaming app, as saying.

"It's entertainment that's not just a form of passive consumption but entertainment that is interactive and brings people together," Simo said.

The new app also includes casual games and access to gaming communities, according to the NYT.

The iOS versions of the app will be released upon Apple's approval, it added.

Facebook did not respond to Reuters' request for comment.

 - Reuters