HP's $25K Portal to the Metaverse Google Beam Gets Real (and Pricey)

HP Unveils Revolutionary $24,999 Hardware Tailored for Google Beam

In a groundbreaking move that promises to redefine the landscape of enterprise communication, HP has stepped forward as the pioneering company to unveil hardware specifically designed for Google Beam, the cutting-edge 3D video communication technology previously known as Project Starline. Meet the HP Dimension, a device engineered to transport you and your colleagues into the same virtual space, fostering a sense of presence like never before.

The HP Dimension boasts impressive features, including:

• A 65-inch light field display that brings 3D video to life with stunning clarity.
• Six high-speed cameras embedded within the bezel, capturing a true-to-life 3D video representation of your caller.
• Adaptive lighting that adjusts to the environment.

Google's rebranding of Project Starline to Google Beam last month signaled a new era, one where third-party manufacturers, starting with HP, could leverage Google's design framework to create Beam-enabled devices. The HP Dimension is targeted toward enterprise users. While the hardware itself carries a price tag of $24,999, it's important to note that this doesn't include the software license required to conduct video calls. Users will need to acquire a separate Google Beam license to access platforms like Zoom or Google Meet. Pricing for these licenses is yet to be announced by HP and Google.

Imagine connecting with a colleague and feeling as if they are right there in the room with you, without the need for headsets, glasses, or any specialized equipment. That's the vision behind Google Beam, and the HP Dimension brings that vision to life. According to Beau Wilder, HP's head of future customer experiences, you don't necessarily need a specialized room either, although a white background provides an "optimal" experience.

Key benefits of the HP Dimension include:

• Lifelike 3D video projection, offering a realistic view of your colleagues.
• Spatial audio that ensures the voice is seamlessly integrated with the body, enhancing the sense of presence.
• HP's new Poly Studio A2 table mics and four speakers strategically positioned for optimal sound quality.

While HP Dimension users can still connect with individuals on other video conferencing platforms and devices, the 3D projection will only be available between HP Dimension users.

“The ultimate goal of Google Beam — and it’s manifested on HP Dimension — is to feel like you’re there,” said Andrew Nartker, general manager of Google Beam, during the briefing. “You feel just like you’re there at the table working together … It’s all meant to bring us together and ultimately feel like we’re completely physically present.”

The HP Dimension is slated to launch later this year in the US, Canada, the UK, France, Germany, and Japan. Several prominent companies, including Salesforce, Deloitte, and NEC Corporation, have already committed to integrating Google Beam into their workplaces.

The HP Dimension represents a bold step towards more immersive and engaging communication experiences. While the price point may be prohibitive for some, it signifies a significant leap forward in how we connect and collaborate in the enterprise world. As technology continues to evolve, expect to see 3D communication become more accessible and integrated into our daily lives, blurring the lines between physical presence and virtual interaction. This could genuinely transform how teams collaborate across distances.

Tags: HP Dimension, Google Beam, 3D video, Project Starline, HP, Enterprise, Tech, Video calls, Light field display, 3D communication

Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/684859/hp-dimension-google-beam-3d-video-communication