The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.
One of the things about being a blogger is I have friends all over the country. While I’d love to go to lots and lots of conferences and events and see my friends all the time, I know that’s just not going to happen. So we chat, all the time, on Facebook.
But now, Facebook lets us take our chats to the next level. Now, when I want to chat with my Facebook friends (and family) all I have to say is “Hey Portal, Call…”
The problem is, now I’m not sure we will get any work done. My dear friends with Portals, we are hosed!
If you don’t have blog friends all over the country, you can use Portal to stay connected with family and friends that are far away. Portal is only sold in the US, but you can use your Portal to call friends located in any country where the Messenger app is supported.
What is Facebook Portal?
Facebook Portal is a home video communication device that makes it easier to connect more regularly with the most important people in your life, and share the little everyday moments that relationships are built on. Connecting through Portal feels less like being on a video call and more like being together in the same room, even when you’re miles apart.
Features of the Facebook Portal
Alexa is built in!
Smart, hands-free video calling
Smart camera
Group call
Music
Animation and augmented reality effects
Birthday reminders
The Portal+ has a 15.6″ screen that can be positioned vertically or horizontally.
The Portal has 10.1″ horizontal screen.
Things to try with Portal
Making a call:
You can make a call by saying “Hey Portal, Call {name}, or by finding that person in your contacts and tapping call. You can even add important people as favorites.
When you’re in a call, notice how the Smart Camera keeps the other person in the frame as the move around the room. Tap the picture-in-picture to flip to view to see how the Smart Camera follows YOU around.
You can use Portal to call up to 7 people, and even “Spotlight” a specific person to focus on them. Portal; also allows you to set up a call with three or more people with a combination of Portal and smartphones/tablets via Messenger
You can call ANYONE on Messenger via their phone or tablet with your Portal, and transfer a call from Portal to your phone and vice versa.
Apps & Shared Experiences
Portal allows you to share your favorite Spotify or Pandora song with your friends and family when you’re on a call. Just link your account during set-up.
Use Story Time to tell a story. May I suggest “Three Little Pigs”
Portal has different AR experiences, including cat-on-the=head and mustache effects.
Privacy
In addition to the camera cover, you can completely disable the microphone and camera on Portal when you’re not on a call.
Passcodes allow you to decide who can see when you are available, and you can also take advantage of timed do not disturb settings.
Beyond Portal
Portal can act as a “Superframe” and display videos and images you select.
Ask Alexa the weather, to turn on your lights (if you have smart bulbs) or to play music.
Watch a video on the Food Network to get cooking tips and ideas for your next meal.
Portal can be used as a home speaker by playing music from Spotify, Pandora or iHeart Radio.
Give the gift of Portal. Save $100 when you buy 2
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