The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Facebook may always be at the forefront when it comes to issues relating to privacy or security though that isn’t stopping the company from introducing new Portal models for online video chatting. The vice president of AR/VR at Facebook, Andrew Bosworth revealed the above in an interview during Code Conference in Scottsdale, Arizona, besides also confirming the new Portal devices would be landing this fall itself.
Bosworth also added it is not just one or a couple of new Portal devices that are forthcoming but there likely are several of those lined up for launch later this year. Those are going to be in different sizes and shapes though Bosworth declined to reveal the exact details just yet.
The first generation Portal devices launched late last year allowed hands-free operation and are designed almost entirely for video chatting. The range comprised of two devices, Portal and Portal Plus and are powered by the Amazon Alexa smart digital assistant. Facebook also included it’s own ‘Hey Portal’ voice calling feature as well.
Also, the difference between the Portal and Portal Plus happens to be largely about the size. While the Portal offered a 720p 10.1-inch display, the same went up to 15.6-inch 1080p display on the Portal Plus. On the price front, the Portal comes for $199 while it’s Plus version commands a price tag of $349.
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- Build relationships at work and home. Messenger and WhatsApp put you just one tap away from friends and family—even if they don’t have a Meta Portal.
- A more natural connection. Smart Camera adjusts automatically so you can move freely and stay in frame, while Smart Sound ensures you can always be heard.
- Call anyone, anywhere. Use apps like Messenger and WhatsApp to connect with friends and family—even if they don’t have a Meta Portal.
- Bigger screen, bigger sound. A brilliant 14” HD tilting display and a room-filling stereo speaker means you’ll never miss a detail.
- Privacy by design. Easily disable the camera and microphone, or block the lens with the integrated camera cover.
Now with the company revealing intentions of launching several models of Portal in various shapes, it is going to be interesting to see how they end up looking like. Also, a model line-up of different sizes will no doubt come in a wider price bracket, which is going to allow Facebook to target a larger user base with these devices.
Bosworth though isn’t revealing how many Portal devices they have managed to sell so far. This could be crucial given all the allegations of hacks and breaches the company ends up facing on a regular basis. That had led many to be sceptical of a video chatting device with an integrated camera and mic to be a huge privacy risk.
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- A more natural connection. Smart Camera adjusts automatically so you can move freely and stay in frame, while Smart Sound ensures you can easily be heard.
- Call anyone, anywhere. Use apps like Messenger and WhatsApp to connect with friends and family—even if they don’t have a Meta Portal.
- Designed for the home. With a sleek picture frame design, quick setup and intuitive voice and touchscreen controls, Portal fits easily and seamlessly into your home.
- Privacy by design. Easily disable the camera and microphone, or block the lens with the camera cover.
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Facebook has already been claiming a higher level of vigilance against chances of data hacks though it could be some time to find out if the company is genuinely sticking to that. Till then, the company’s marketing heads will no doubt have a tough time selling new Portals, no matter what shapes they come in.
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- Feel close, wherever you roam. With the best of Meta Portal smart video calling made portable, you can take the conversation anywhere in your home.
- Designed for calls on the go. A long-lasting battery and integrated handle make it easy to move from room to room.
- Call anyone, anywhere. Use apps like Messenger and WhatsApp to connect with friends and family—even if they don’t have a Meta Portal.
- A more natural connection. Smart Camera adjusts automatically so you can move freely and stay in frame, while Smart Sound ensures you can always be heard.
- Great sound anywhere. Listen to music with a speaker that can fill any room. Doubles as a portable Bluetooth speaker around the home.
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- A more natural connection. Smart Camera adjusts automatically so you can move freely and stay in frame, while Smart Sound ensures you can easily be heard.
- Call anyone, anywhere. Use apps like Messenger and WhatsApp to connect with friends and family—even if they don’t have a Meta Portal.
- Designed for the home. With a sleek picture frame design, quick setup and intuitive voice and touchscreen controls, Meta Portal fits easily and seamlessly into your home.
- Privacy by design. Easily disable the camera and microphone, or block the lens with the camera cover.
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- Scale up your greatest conversations. Smart video calling on your TV brings your favorite people, larger-than-life, into your living room.
- Share the room. Perfect for group calls. Meta Portal TV captures your whole room so everyone is in view without jostling for position.
- Call anyone, anywhere. Use apps like Messenger and WhatsApp to connect with friends and family—even if they don’t have a Meta Portal.
- A more natural connection. Smart Camera adjusts automatically so you can move freely and stay in frame, while Smart Sound ensures you can be heard clearly.
- Privacy by design. Easily disable the camera and microphone, or block the lens with the camera cover.
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