CallGenie: An Improved Alternative to the Discontinued Meta Portal TV (Formerly Facebook Portal TV)


With the discontinuation of Meta (formerly Facebook) Portal TV, many users are left wondering: what now? At Smart Life Solutions, we understand that staying connected to loved ones should never be complicated—especially for the elderly or those with unique accessibility needs. Enter CallGenie: the simple, reliable, and innovative video-calling solution designed for your TV, offering an effortless way to stay close to family and friends.

 

Why Was Meta Portal TV Discontinued?

 

Meta’s decision to discontinue Portal TV reflects a strategic shift towards augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies, as the company refocuses its priorities following a drop in revenue after an inflated revenue spike in 2020, during the pandemic.  While the move has left many users without a familiar and simple video-calling solution, it also opens the door for innovative alternatives. CallGenie steps into this gap as a reliable, user-friendly option that not only replaces Portal TV but also enhances the experience for users who value accessibility and seamless connections.


Comparison image of CallGenie and the discontinued Meta Portal TV, highlighting CallGenie as the accessible and reliable alternative.

What Makes CallGenie the Perfect Alternative?

 

CallGenie isn’t just a replacement; it’s an upgrade. Designed specifically for people who prioritise simplicity and reliability, CallGenie turns your TV into the ultimate communication hub. Here’s why it’s the ideal choice:

  1. Auto-Answering Capability: CallGenie automatically answers incoming calls on your TV. No need to press buttons or navigate confusing menus—it’s as easier and more secure than a house phone.
  2. Accessibility First: With its large screen and hands-free operation, CallGenie is tailored to meet the needs of older adults and individuals with cognitive or mobility challenges.
  3. Real-Time Subtitles: Supports individuals with hearing impairments, ensuring clear communication.
  4. Secure and Private: Unlike Meta Portal TV, CallGenie prioritises your privacy. With no hidden recording features or data collection concerns, you can connect with peace of mind.

 

Key Features at a Glance

 

  • No Learning Curve: Designed with simplicity in mind, CallGenie is ready to use right out of the box.
  • Crystal-Clear Video Calls: Enjoy high-quality video and sound, making every interaction feel personal and lifelike.
  • TV Integration: Experience the convenience of seeing loved ones on the biggest screen in your home.

 

How Does CallGenie Compare to Meta Portal TV?

 

Feature Meta Portal TV CallGenie
Hands-Free Auto-Answer
Designed for Accessibility
Privacy-Focused
Easy TV Integration
Ongoing Support


 

Why Wait? Try CallGenie Today!

 

Staying connected should be simple, secure, and stress-free. CallGenie delivers all of this and more, giving you and your loved ones a way to communicate that feels effortless and enjoyable. Whether you’re replacing Meta Portal TV or discovering video calling for the first time, CallGenie is the solution you’ve been waiting for.

Learn More About CallGenie or Shop Now.

CallGenie : Key Features

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    Connects to the Television

    CallGenie connects to the user's television, typically the largest screen in a person's home. Why would you introduce another smaller screen into their living environment, when the television is already there in front of them?

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    Safe & Secure

    CallGenie only answers incoming video calls from known contacts. Just add family and friends to the contacts list to enable them to connect.

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    Auto-Answering Video Calls

    CallGenie is waiting for loved ones to call. It automatically turns on the television, if it's on standby, and switches the input to the incoming video call. At the end of the call, CallGenie returns the television to its original state.

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    Real-Time Subtitles

    With age might come challenges related to hearing. CallGenie addresses this by offering real-time subtitles, ensuring that every word spoken by loved ones can be read from the screen. The size of the text can be configured to suit the eye sight of the user.

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    One-off Cost – No Monthly Fees

    No monthly fees to pay. Just connect CallGenie to the user's broadband and plug it into their television. Set up is done remotely via a video call, to make sure everything works perfectly.

    12 months of full support and warranty included.

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    Our Guarantee

    We understand the importance of making sure that CallGenie works seamlessly with the user's television. The television must go back to its original state after a call, and when the user turns on the television from standby there should be no surprises. In the very rare case that we can't get CallGenie to work seamlessly, we will give you a full refund of the purchase price (subject to conditions of Refund Policy).

CallGenie : How Does It Work?

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    Getting Set-up

    Plug in the box, connect it to Wi-Fi and to the television. That just leaves the final configuration, which is done remotely over a video call with us.

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    Make a Call

    Make a video call using Skype on either your smartphone, tablet or computer.

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    Accept the Call

    CallGenie will turn on the television (if needed), and switch automatically to the input for the video call. All of this without your loved one needing to do anything.

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    Enjoy Your Call

    Enjoy having a catch up with your loved one on the big screen. It'll feel like you're in the same room together.

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    Finish Your Call

    Hang up the call, when you have finished, and CallGenie will automatically switch back to the programme they were watching (and turn the off television, if it was off before the call).

About CallGenie

CallGenie started as a project in early 2017 to provide a way for Graham, the founder of Smart Life Solutions, to make Skype video calls to his elderly mother, who suffered with dementia and mobility issues.

Graham’s mother wasn’t accustomed to using technology to communicate, which is the case with many elderly people. She could use a phone and the remote control for her television. However, mobile phones and tablets were left in drawers, with no charge. Graham, therefore, decided to draw on his IT background. He was convinced that in amongst the extensive emerging smart home technologies there would be a solution.

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