Video calling has become an important way to stay in touch with friends and family. While phones and laptops offer video chat options, sometimes you want a device designed just for this purpose.
Facebook Portal, now called Meta Portal, is a smart display made for easy, hands-free video calls. It also supports Alexa voice control and can stream music and video. This guide explains what Portal devices do and how to use them.
What Is Facebook Portal (Meta Portal)?
Facebook Portal is a family of smart display devices made for video calling. The device connects to your Wi-Fi network and allows you to make video calls using apps like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp.
In 2021, Facebook changed its name to Meta, and the Portal line is now part of the Meta brand. Many people still refer to it as Facebook Portal.
Portal works as a standalone video-chatting device, so you don’t need a phone or tablet to use it. The screen displays video calls, shows photos, and plays media.
One key feature is its support for Alexa. You can control Portal with voice commands and use it like other Alexa-enabled smart devices.
How Facebook Portal Works
Setting up and using Portal is simple. First, the device connects to the internet via Wi-Fi. Once connected, you sign in with your Facebook account and can also link WhatsApp.
Portal uses a smart camera that automatically zooms and pans to keep you in view during video calls. This makes conversations feel more natural, especially when you move around the room.
Built-in Alexa allows you to control the device with your voice. You can ask Alexa to start calls, play music, set reminders, and manage smart home devices.
In addition to video calls, Portal supports streaming services. You can play music from Spotify or Pandora, and watch videos from Facebook Watch.
Portal devices come in several sizes and styles, so you can choose the one that fits your space.
Features of Facebook Portal Devices
Portal offers many features that make it useful beyond just video chatting:
- Smart camera with auto-zoom and tracking keeps you centered in the frame
- Alexa built-in for hands-free voice control and smart home integration
- Video calling through Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Zoom
- High-quality microphones and speakers for clear sound during calls
- Privacy options, including a physical camera cover and microphone mute button
- Photo frame mode lets you display favorite pictures when not on a call
These features make Portal a versatile device for both personal and home use.
How to Set Up and Use Facebook Portal
Getting started with Portal is quick. First, plug in the device and connect it to your Wi-Fi network. The screen will guide you through the setup steps.
You’ll be asked to sign in with your Facebook account. You can also link WhatsApp to call people who use that app.
Next, you can adjust camera settings, enable Alexa if you want voice control, and set up any additional features like photo display.
Once setup is complete, making calls is easy. Use the touchscreen to select a contact or say “Alexa, call [name]” to start a call.
You can also use Portal to play music, check the weather, and manage smart devices with voice commands.
What Apps and Services Work With Facebook Portal?
Portal supports several popular apps and services for both communication and entertainment.
For video calling, Portal works with:
- Facebook Messenger
- Zoom
You can call people who are using these apps on phones, tablets, other Portal devices, or even desktop computers.
For music and media, Portal supports:
- Spotify
- Pandora
- iHeartRadio
- Facebook Watch
Portal also works with Alexa skills, so you can access thousands of voice-controlled services.
While Portal does not support every app that smart speakers like Amazon Echo Show or Google Nest Hub do, it focuses on making video calling and photo sharing simple and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Facebook Portal (now Meta Portal) is a smart display built to make video calling easy and personal. With support for Messenger, WhatsApp, and Zoom, it connects you with friends and family across platforms.
The device also includes Alexa voice control, useful privacy features, and the ability to display photos and play music. If you want a device that makes video calling simple while adding a few smart features, Portal is worth considering.
If this guide helped you, feel free to share it or leave a comment about your experience with Portal or other video-chatting devices.