Facebook Portal is a smart video calling device that allows users to easily video call their friends and family using Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp. With its hands-free video calling powered by AI and large screen display, Facebook Portal aims to make video calling more immersive and natural.
But is Facebook Portal actually easy to use for elderly users? Getting older often comes with declines in vision, hearing, dexterity, and cognitive abilities – all of which can make using new technologies more challenging. In this article, we’ll look at whether Facebook Portal can be considered elderly-friendly based on factors like its interface and features, video calling abilities, smart camera functions, voice commands, and overall usability.
Simple Interface and Features
One of the key aspects that determines if a device will be easy for seniors to use is the simplicity of its interface and features. Facebook Portal contains a streamlined interface that eliminates unnecessary complexities that could confuse users.
The Portal home screen displays only core features like making calls, viewing photos, and accessing apps. Large icons and labels make the various functions and apps easy to identify. There is no complicated desktop or multilayered menus to navigate. Everything is designed to be visually simple and intuitive.
In terms of features, Facebook Portal focuses on a few key abilities revolving around video calling. There are no elaborate or advanced functionalities that users need to learn. The straightforward feature set makes it easy for seniors to learn how to use the device.
Easy video calling
Video calling is undoubtedly the central functionality of Facebook Portal. It makes the process extremely simple – users just need to say “Hey Portal, call [name]” to instantly start a video call with a friend or family member through Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp.
Calling contacts is also easy. Users can browse their contacts, recent calls, and favorites using the touchscreen or voice. Large tiles with pictures and names make identifying contacts effortless.
Once in a video call, features like Smart Camera automatically pans and zooms to keep the user in frame if they move. This allows elderly users to move and talk freely without difficult video adjustments.
Photo and video features
Facebook Portal also enables users to view their photos and videos from Facebook. Using the “Hey Portal, show me photos of…” voice command, it can display specific photo albums or memories. Everything displays clearly on the large screen.
Playing videos from Facebook Watch is also seamlessly done by voice. Being able to easily view visual content helps seniors reconnect with friends and family.
Streamlined app offerings
The apps available on Facebook Portal are focused on a few categories like entertainment, wellness, and communication. For example, some pre-installed apps include Spotify, Pandora, Facebook Watch, Story Time, and SmartNews.
Having a limited selection makes it simpler for seniors to find and choose apps without overwhelming options. Entertainment and communication apps are tailored for user needs.
Smart Camera for Easy Video Calling
One of the most important features that enhances video calling for seniors is Facebook Portal’s Smart Camera. It uses AI technology to make video conversations smooth and natural.
Automatically pans and zooms
As mentioned earlier, Smart Camera automatically pans and zooms to keep users in frame during a video call. This allows elderly users to move freely and continue their conversations naturally without having to adjust the camera constantly.
It zooms out when a second person enters the frame so both are visible. When the user moves out of the frame, it pans and zoms back smoothly. This takes away the burden of video adjustments.
Keeps subjects in focus
Smart Camera also intuitively focuses on subjects depending on their movements and actions. Face tracking keeps users’ faces clear and sharp if they are near the camera.
If the user moves farther away, the camera widens its focus area to keep the full body in focus. Intelligent focusing makes it easy to stay visible during video calls.
Works well in low light
The camera’s automatic low light correction feature allows high quality video even in dim environments. This ensures elderly users don’t have to worry about adjusting lights or moving to brighter areas for calls. Video quality remains high in all lighting.
Minimizes background noise
Smart Camera has algorithms that filter out unwanted background noise during calls. Seniors don’t have to find quiet rooms without distractions for clear audio.
Responds to Voice Commands
Facebook Portal has built-in far-field voice recognition that allows users to issue commands and get hands-free control. Just saying simple phrases like “Hey Portal” wakes the device and activates listening.
This voice control helps elderly users in several ways:
Makes operation easier
Having voice control eliminates the need to use the touchscreen for many functions. Seniors may find manipulating on-screen elements difficult due to dexterity issues or unfamiliarity with technology interfaces. With voice, they can just speak commands to operate the device.
Common voice commands control core functions like making calls, launching apps, taking photos, playing music & videos, and getting information. Everything can be done without complex screen interactions.
Works at a distance
The far-field microphones pick up voice commands clearly from a distance. Elderly users don’t have to be right next to the device for it to hear commands. Voice control works well across the room, so they can use Portal hands-free from where they are sitting or standing comfortably.
Understands natural phrases
Users don’t have to memorize specific commands. Portal understands natural way of speaking. Seniors can phrase requestsconversationally, such as “Facebook Portal, can you get me the weather report?” Simple, intuitive phrasing makes voice control easier.
Usability Features for Seniors
Beyond core functions like video calling, Facebook Portal contains additional features that contribute to usability and ease of use for the elderly.
Easy set up process
Portal TV has a streamlined 3-step set up that guides users through connecting to wifi, logging into Facebook, and allowing access to apps. Simple on-screen instructions paired with voice guidance makes the initialization seamless.
Grandparents mode offers enlarged fonts and icons during setup for added visibility assistance. Voice control also eliminates the need for complex configurations post-setup.
Large high definition display
Portal devices feature large displays ranging from 8 inches for the Mini up to 15.6 inches for the Portal Plus. The sizable screens allow seniors to see content and video call participants clearly.
High definition resolutions like 1080p provide sharp image quality. Greater visibility caters to age-related vision declines.
Bundled remote control
Portal TV includes a basic remote control in addition to touch and voice control. Having a dedicated remote can feel familiar and be easier to use for seniors accustomed to traditional TV controls.
Large navigational buttons make the remote ergonomic. It also allows remote device operation for users who can’t get close to the screen.
Syncs with Facebook account
Connecting Portal with a user’s Facebook account enables access to contacts for easy video calls. Seniors can connect with grandchildren, friends, and relatives in their network rather than trying to use third-party apps.
Synced photos and events also aid recollection, engaging users.
Skype and Zoom support
While the Portal interface focuses on Facebook tools, users can also download Skype and Zoom. Having these additional communication apps can help seniors stay in touch if their contacts prefer using these services. More options prevents isolation.
| Portal Model | Screen Size | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Portal Mini | 8 inches | Compact design, Mobility |
| Portal | 10 inches | Mid-size screen, Good for countertops |
| Portal Plus | 15.6 inches | Large display, Immersive video calling |
| Portal TV | Up to 55 inches | TV integration, Hands-free while relaxing |
Conclusion
Overall, Facebook Portal does appear to have many elder-friendly attributes that make it relatively easy to use for seniors. Its straightforward interface, smart video calling features, voice control support, and design considerations like large screens contribute to an accessible user experience.
Of course, individual abilities and comfort with technology will vary. But for many older users, Facebook Portal can simplify video calling with loved ones thanks to its focus on core communication abilities in an accessible package. With appropriate assistance setting up and learning how to operate the device initially, it can become a user-friendly communication tool for elderly users.