Bought this for my 76-year-old mother. Have been looking for a completely foolproof way to do calls and video-conferencing with her. After countless devices thru the years, I can say that I finally found it. The interface is really streamlined and (almost completely) foolproof. With the WhatsApp and messenger accounts properly set up, she simply has to touch on the favorite contacts that rest right on the front screen. One tap to call, one tap to pickup. Can't beat that!
If for some reason gets out of the main screen (not as easy to happen as in an iPad) or whatever, it's (mostly) simple for her to get back to square 0. After several months it never had any problem (i.e. logging out, or asking for the user to validate options or updates, that would be an issue for my mother to deal with). For someone that lives far away from their parents, you can understand how this is gold!
It beats the iPad (that she also has but barely uses, and is still a continuous training) that ends up having too many possibilities. Same for Alexa's devices that end up having too many options and quickly she can get lost or complicated for someone not used to UXs and smart devices.
Aside from the simplicity of the interface, the camera picture qualify is great and the speakers are pretty acceptable. The auto-zoom feature is very useful, however, don't expect this to be like Facetime "in your face".
The device has some other possibilities and an app store. Facebook is trying to add more apps to it, but frankly, it seems pretty limited still. It is a shame because it is a very powerful VC device. It has already the GoToMeeting app, and would be great if they could add Zoom.
Privacy concerns are warranted. The best you can do is use the physical latch to cover the camera (that also is supposed to shut down the mic). But that is a trade-off that I accepted with my mother's device.
I got the Portal TV for my own house (and use the latch) and I am waiting for WhatsApp to release the multi-device feature to buy another one for my Mother.
If you want an easy, comfortable efficient way to do Video-conferencing, you use WhatsApp and/or Messenger, this is a great device!
| Indoor/Outdoor Usage | Indoor |
|---|---|
| Compatible Devices | Tablet, Smartphone |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Connectivity Protocol | wi-fi |
| Controller Type | vera, amazon_alexa |
| Mounting Type | Wall Mount |
| Video Capture Resolution | 1080p |
| Color | White |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Included Components | display, USB-C cable |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Wattage | 10 watts |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 5 x 8.4 x 5.9 inches |
| Flash Memory Installed Size | 16 |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Item Weight | 1.7 Pounds |
| Room Type | Living Room, Hallway, Study Room possibility room |
| Video Capture Format | AVI |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| International Protection Rating | IP54 |
| Control Method | Voice |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00810387030091 |
| UPC | 810387030091 |
| Standing screen display size | 8 Inches |
| RAM | 16 GB |
| Card Description | Integrated |
| National Stock Number | 899-00077-01 |
