An outlet is not always available. When I want to relocate to avoid feedback between my wife and I's systems - that 5 feet of cord is not enough, so I have to unplug existing calls to move around. Also, since getting a portal I tend to carry it around like a Tonka toy and can be delightfully clumsy - having a handle to grab n go would be a less risky way to carry our Portals about. Thank you!