Editing Magical objects in Harry Potter (section)

=== Portkeys ===
'''Portkeys''' are first introduced in ''Goblet of Fire''. They are an alternative to Apparation but can also be used to transport a group of people at once. Created by using the Portus spell, a Portkey can be set to transport anybody who touches it to a designated location or to become active at a predetermined time and transport itself and anyone touching it to its set destination.<ref name="HP4-p69"/> It may be created for one-way, one-time use or to transport the holder to and from a particular place in a round trip; in addition, it may be set to activate at a particular time or automatically transport the first person who touches it. The creation of Portkeys is highly restricted and controlled by the Ministry.

Any object can be used as a Portkey. As a safety measure to discourage unsuspecting Muggles from picking them up and activating them, wizards are advised to use old, worthless items. Portkey objects used in the novels include a football and an old boot.<ref name="HP4-p69">{{HPref|book=4|chapter=6}}{{clarify|date=March 2020}}</ref>