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Facebook has introduced its long-rumored video-calling device, Portal. Available in two sizes, the device is packed full of features that could make it a popular choice for social media types this holiday season. The device represents Facebook’s first foray into hardware development, although they do sell products from Oculus, the VR headset maker it purchased in 2014.
Both the Portal and Portal Plus each offer a 12-megapixel camera with high-definition video and artificial intelligence software. The former, priced at $199, features a 10-inch (1,280 by 800 PPI) display, while the latter, at $349, includes a 15-inch display (1,920 by 1,080 PPI). If you buy two devices at the same time, Facebook is offering at $100 discount at launch.
What is Portal?
At its heart, not surprisingly, Portal is all about making it easier to connect with the outside world, regardless of your location in your home. With a built-in Smart Camera, Portal has the distinction of being able to pan and zoom across a room automatically. With Smart Sound, conversations are supposed to be clear since it minimized background noise while also enhancing the voice of whoever is talking.
With the device, you can call Facebook and Messenger friends, even if they don’t own a Portal. Better still, the device supports calls to up to seven people at the same time.
For hands-free voice control, each Portal has Amazon Alexa built-in. Say “Hello Portal,” followed by the name to make a call, or ask about current weather conditions, news or sports scores.
Let’s talk about security
Security played an important part in Portal’s design. The camera and microphone can both be disabled with a single tap. There’s also a camera cover that you can use. To an additional level of security, you can manage Portal access in your home by assigning four- to two-digit passcodes to keep the screen locked.
Also, Facebook says it doesn’t listen to or record conversations between you and others. Videos are also encrypted, and AI technology allows Portal to run locally, not on Facebook servers. You can also delete your Portal’s voice history with ease.
✔️ loses the data of hundreds of millions of people
✔️ ruins a few elections
✔️ data breach lets anyone into millions of people's accounts
✔️ still wants to put a online webcam in your kitchen https://t.co/zsB1Jc82VE— Internet of Shit (@internetofshit) October 8, 2018
Looking for more? Portal is also integrated with Spotify Premium, Pandora, iHeartRadio, Food Network, and Newsy, to provide content. Facebook Watch is also available. The social network promises more content is coming soon.
These type of all-in-one smart video products are a natural progression from the growing lineup of smart speakers. Besides the Facebook Portal and Amazon Echo Show, there’s also similar products popping up from Lenovo and HP. Google’s likely to announce a video-based Google Home speaker in the coming weeks. I wouldn’t discount Facebook’s entry into the market, although I think it will need to beef up its entertainment offerings for Portal to really take off. Regardless, it’s probably entering the market at a good time.
You can pre-order Portal via a special page on Facebook. The device will also be sold through Amazon and Best Buy when it launches next month.
Are you sold on Portal? Let us know below.
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