Being a military wife, we have moved, deployed and even got stationed to different parts of the world. Because of that, we have plenty of relatives and friends who live far away from home, and it can get challenging to connect and keep in touch. Good thing, the technology of our generation makes communication so much easier for us. Whenever I miss them, I just have to video call them, and it feels like I am with them already. I know video calling is far from being with them, but at least there are ways to see them, right?
Video calling works for me every time, but lately, it’s been hard for me to do video calls because of Josiah. I usually use my laptop while I am busy playing or caring for the little one. Except now that he is busy running around, chasing Josiah makes the previous routine I am accustomed to much harder than it used to be. Plus the fact that my laptop only focuses on one angle, and catching a glimpse of every action is not possible. Unless I am using my phone which is also next to impossible while I am carrying him. Fortunately, I have discovered the solution to my problem, and most definitely a solution to all the busy multitasking parents like me too!
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce the Portal and Portal + from Facebook. Portal is the newest video communication device that is innovated and is equipped with AI technology to make video calling easier. Let me tell you why …
AI Technology
This is the most important feature of Portal. Unlike other video calling devices, Portal has an advanced AI technology, that recognizes movements and motions around the subject. The Portal has smart sound technology and smart camera that will let you enjoy video calling hands-free. The smart camera focuses and stays with the subject, even when in action. It will automatically zoom and follow you. When used by a group, the smart camera will automatically adjust to make sure everyone is seen in the camera. While the smart sound will lessen the background noises and will focus on your voice.
I super love this feature because it is very convenient to use, and there is not a single moment missed with Josiah. It is also helpful when I am doing my household chores because its camera moves along with me while I work.
Wider Screen
Portal is a 10-inch tablet, with a full 1280 x 800 display, but if you like to have a bigger and wider screen, you can go with Portal +. Portal + is a 15-inch tablet with a full 1920 x 1080 display, giving you more flexibility and a larger screen that is best for mommies like me who multitask all the time.
Facebook Portal
Amazon Alexa Enabled and Voice Control
Portal makes it totally hands-free even with the controls. You can start a video call by saying “Hey Portal” and then add the name of who you would like to call. It is super easy to use and control, giving you the best assistance that you need. Aside from voice control, Portal also has built-in Amazon Alexa, that gives you more features that you need. One of my favorites is it can control smart home devices, so aside from video calling, it can be a remote for all my appliances too.
Affordability
Would you believe that Portal is only USD 199 while the Portal + is at USD 349? It is one of the cheapest video calling devices that you can see in the market yet it has the most advanced technology. The price is literally worthy of its quality and features.
Facebook Portal Plus
Shared Activities
With Portal, you can listen to music together or even watch together. Portal partnered with Pandora, iHeartRadio, Spotify Premium, Newsy, Food Network, and Facebook Watch to give you entertainment while catching up with your loved ones. Portal is planning to add more, and it’s gonna be soon!
Portal is also equipped with Spark AR platform, to make your calls more fun and interactive. It has nice filters, effects, visuals, and sound effects – all pack in one device!
Connect with Facebook and Messenger Friends
You can call non-Portal users as long as they have Messenger in their smartphones and tablets. Meaning, you can call all your Facebook friends even if they don’t have Portal and still enjoy a hands-free experience. It also supports group calls that can accommodate up to seven people at the same time.
Privacy and Security
This is probably the concern of most of the users before bringing home a new technology. But you don’t have to worry because with Portal, your privacy and security always come first. You can disable Portal’s camera and microphone with just one click, or if you wanted to be really sure, Portal comes with a camera cover, so you can literally cover the lenses any time you wanted. You can also set a passcode to keep your screen locked when not in use. Changing of passcode will require your Facebook password, so rest assured that your Portal is safe as long as you keep your passwords with yourself.
You can now order Portal and Portal+ from the official website of Portal, Best Buy’s local store or online http://bby.me/g29nh and save $100 when you buy 2! This would make a great gift to your loved one no matter what the occasion is. In fact, I am shipping out a portal to my Mama and my aunt so they can easily keep up with Josiah’s milestones and updates as easy as 1, 2, and 3!
Kim Seghers
December 12, 2018Portal looks like a great device! Perfect to keep up with friends and I love it’s hand free and that you can disable the camera and microphone with one click! I need to look into this device!!
Anonymous
December 12, 2018I am a flight attendant i am away from family most of the time. These tips were really helpful
Nicole Wilder
December 12, 2018Wow I have never heard about this before but the AI technology sounds amazing! Definitely going to ask for this for Christmas!
Joanna
December 12, 2018The Portal sounds like a brilliant gadget. I live away from my home country and I do have regular video calls with my friends back home. I could use this device!
Jessi Joachim
December 12, 2018This Facebook Portal seems really interesting. I use Facebook all of the time, especially to keep in touch with friends and family who are far away. This may be a perfect solution!
Gina Hidalgo
December 12, 2018I am so glad I found this post! My husband is a musician and travels for work 6-8 months out of the year. We use video chatting A LOT, and I have been wondering how Portal differs. What an incredible device! I think I’m going to need to add it to my gift list! 😉
Amber Myers
December 12, 2018This sounds so cool! I think I need to pick up one of these. I’m sure I’d use it often.
Natalia
December 12, 2018It must be really difficult to be a military wife! That’s great that people created such devices, which enable us to contact with our family and friends no matter how far from us they are! 🙂
angie
December 12, 2018very cool, so glad you shared the news about this product
Nate
December 12, 2018The portal is pretty awesome. My cousin was telling me about it at a family gathering last weekend. He said he loves it!
Adriana
December 12, 2018OMG, I’ve never heard of this. Am I living under a rock?! LOL I have to look more into this!
Natasha D'Anna
December 12, 2018such an awesome gift idea for young and older people who would rather use a bigger screen to stay connected on facebook.
Shraddha Tripathi
December 13, 2018This is something new I knew today. I love technical gadgets. I am also from an engineering background. This is amazing.
Cindy Ingalls
December 13, 2018One of my favorite things about tech is how it allows us to stay connected with our loved ones. I love doing video chats with my nieces and nephew.
aisasami
December 13, 2018Ahhhh, things are really easy now with technology for military families. Back in the 90s, I was awoken at like 6 am to talk to my dad, who was stationed in South Korea at the time, via satellite phone. Times have changed!
Alvern @ Success Unscrambled
December 13, 2018This is an interesting development in the world of video calling. I am just wondering if every person involved in sending and receiving video calls need to have one of these devices?
Dom Dalston
December 13, 2018I have lots of overseas friends and we’re always video chatting on Facebook. This looks like a really nice piece of kit that gives you lots of freedom to do other stuff while chatting. I want one.
Anosa
December 13, 2018I think with all the privacy issues we’ve been experiencing its good to know its their top priority. I do love the look fo this device, need to check it out as I have family and friends all over.
Kaeleigh
December 13, 2018I had no idea this was a thing! We always video chat with my in-laws so they can see the kids, this would make it SO much easier!
Clare Minall
December 13, 2018This looks something that can be very usefuk at home due to its purpose. I’ll have to check this out.
Preet
December 13, 2018I have heard so much about this portal. Ny biys always ask me to buy. Now I know why. This looks very useful.
Melissa Dixon
December 13, 2018This is so great for people with family far away. I have a grandfather that I would love to talk to more and this would be the perfect way for us.
Brittany Vantrease
December 13, 2018This is really cool! Skyping with my kids can be a nightmare because they are always all over the place trying to show off their toys or tricks and it can be super frustrating. It looks like Facebook had a great idea.
Chad
December 13, 2018oh that is so so cool, I will definitely check it out! This will make things a lot easier for me. Thank you so much.
Chad
love faith more
December 13, 2018Wow! That sounds really great. All the functionalities and feautures are really amazing so updated the way how it used. Thank you for this wonderful sharing!
Beth
December 13, 2018This looks like a really cool gadget that would make a great gift! Thanks for the idea!
Karmin
December 13, 2018Oh this is a needed thing to have in your home, especially with family across country and overseas. I’ll look into it!
Wendy Polisi
December 13, 2018The new FB Portal looks like a great way to stay in touch! I always use video to communicate with my family.
Heather
December 13, 2018The commercials for the Portal are hilarious. I definitely will consider getting one of these! They look like fun.
Bree
December 13, 2018This looks like amazing tech – I cant wait to try it out – thank you for the detailed review!
Lauren Floyd
December 13, 2018This is really cool. My mom Facetimes me to talk to my toddler like three times a day, and holding the phone gets so irritating.
Catherine Santiago Jose
December 13, 2018Honestly, this is my first time to hear about this device and it sounds really amazing that it has a features that can recognize the movements and motions around of an object. I will definitely check this out in the market, thanks for sharing!
Justyna Butler
December 14, 2018I am intrigued by this portal! I want to hear more!
Becca Wilson
December 14, 2018We do a lot of video calls with loved ones because they dont live close. This looks like it would be so great!
Alayna
December 14, 2018I’ve been thinking of getting one of these so the kids can talk to their grandparents in Ireland. Very cool!
Katwalksf
December 14, 2018This is something I need in my life…like ASAP. I feel like it would also make a great Christmas gift!
Dana Brillante-Peller
December 14, 2018I like the idea of being there with family and friends without having to physically be present. Sometimes, with travel and everything, it’s not easy to meet with family during the holiday season.
Sue-Tanya Mchorgh
December 14, 2018I’ve never heard of any of these devices until now. I will definitely have to check it out. Thanks for opening my eyes to them.
Samantha
December 14, 2018I ‘ve not used this before. Thanks for the info.
Bindu Thomas
December 15, 2018Its the first time I am hearing about this portal. It sounds interesting. I’ll have to check this out.
Vanessa Palma
December 15, 2018This is such an amazing gift idea! I would totally love to get one.
Princess Quinn
December 15, 2018I guess this type of device isn’t that new to our eyes. I like how affordable it is to the market. It seems that you have utilized it already.
Anosa malanga
December 16, 2018I have no idea about this and glad I was able to drop by at your website and read this article. This is indeed a very helpful tips especially for people who are always away from home.
Thena Franssen
December 18, 2018This looks so unique. I’ve seen this on commericials and I’m really interested!!!