Facebook has launched three new video-calling devices, pushing itself further into the hardware battle.
Portal, Portal Mini and Portal TV are available in eight countries, including in Australia, the US and the UK. The additions build on Facebook’s first attempt at Portal which was launched late last year.
The devices are built for Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp calls. Portal and Portal Mini, selling for AU$279 and AU$299 respectively, are standalone devices, while the Portal TV, selling for AU$229, connects to TVs for video calls.
“We couldn’t be more excited to bring some of the world’s best technology to Australia,” says Will Easton, Facebook AUNZ MD.
“We've been on a mission to build technology that brings people closer together in ways that minimise our sense of physical and emotional distance.
“Portal allows Australian’s to experience smart video calling on your TV and anywhere in your home. It is designed to make video chats feel less like a call and more like you’re actually in the same room.”
Home devices have come under plenty of scrutiny over security concerns, and Facebook itself recently admitted third-party contractors were listening in on voice messages made through its apps.
Addressing security concerns, Facebook said Portal’s microphone and camera can easily be disabled with a single tap or switch.
Facebook also said calls on Portal will be encrypted and Smart Camera and Smart Sound use AI technology that runs locally on Portal, not on Facebook servers.
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