The Facebook Portal is a 'godsend' for older relatives — and it's 40% off
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Amazon Canada has always been a one-stop shopping destination, especially if you're on the hunt for tech that doesn't break the bank. While you can always find TVs, laptops and headphones on sale, the top-rated Facebook Portal is rarely at a discount — until now.
For a limited time, Amazon shoppers can save a whopping 40 per cent on this smart video calling device and take it home for less than $100.
Facebook Portal Smart Video Calling 10” Touch Screen Display
What is it?
The Facebook Portal is a smart video calling device that allows you to easily connect with friends and family using Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp video.
A size-friendly alternative to video calling on your smartphone, the Portal has a 10-inch HD touchscreen display that allows for more life-like conversations with loved ones.
In addition to its smart camera and smart sound features, the device comes with built-in Amazon Alexa, which enables users to control their smart homes, ask questions, check the weather and more — all hands-free.
The Facebook Portal has a storytime function so that you can read along to popular stories with music and animation and doubles as a smart picture frame when not in use.
What shoppers are saying
Taking home an average rating of 4.5stars, Amazon shoppers give the Facebook Portal high marks for picture quality, ease of use and value for money.
It feels like "you're in the same room chatting," writes one shopper. The Portal is of "great value" if you live far away from loved ones and "use video chat to connect."
"So simple," and "much better than holding [your] phone," says another reviewer. "It's like inviting people home."
While most users praise the picture and sound quality of the Portal, it's the accessibility for seniors that have Amazon reviewers excited.
I bought this for my 80-year-old mother during the pandemic, and it has been a "lifesaver," raves one shopper. Compared to the small screen of a smartphone and the skill required for a laptop, the "Portal has been a godsend."
My elderly mother, "who struggles with technology," has become an "everyday user of [the Portal]."
It's "great for granny," echos another shopper. We purchased the Portal for my mother, and she enjoys the "COVID freedom that it offers."
Despite its positive reviews, some reviewers say the device can be "buggy."
It's been "buggy since the start," writes one shopper. It "seems to forget my account" and "forces me to log in each time."
It's a "buggy, half-baked device," writes another user.
Verdict
A steal at 40 per cent off, now is the perfect time to try out the Facebook Portal for yourself or an older loved one. With hundreds of five-star reviews backing it, shoppers say the video calling device has been a "lifesaver" during the pandemic, making it feel like your loved ones are in the "same room chatting." However, some shoppers caution it can be "buggy," something to keep in mind before heading to checkout.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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