HP Launches First Hardware with Google Beam
Enterprise Collaboration Enters a New Dimension
The future of remote meetings arrived today as HP unveiled the HP Dimension, the first device leveraging Google Beam technology. This breakthrough aims to bridge the gap between physical presence and virtual interaction, offering a more immersive and natural communication experience.
A Lifelike Virtual Presence
HP’s new offering features a 65-inch light field display, coupled with six high-speed cameras integrated into the bezel. This technology creates a remarkably realistic 3D representation of callers, moving beyond traditional flat video conferencing. Beau Wilder, HP’s head of future customer experiences, explained, “We’re not trying to put a caricature in a small box across the table from you,”
“We want you to walk into the room and instantly make eye contact without even thinking about it.”
Google rebranded its Project Starline as Google Beam last month, opening the design framework to manufacturers like HP. The HP Dimension is specifically targeted towards enterprise applications, promising to revolutionize how teams collaborate remotely.
Cost and Accessibility
The HP Dimension carries a price tag of $24,999, but that’s just the beginning. Users will also need to purchase a separate Google Beam license to access popular video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Google Meet. Pricing for these licenses has not yet been disclosed by HP or Google.
Interestingly, a recent study by Statista revealed that the global video conferencing market is projected to reach $12.78 billion in 2024, highlighting the growing demand for advanced communication solutions. (Statista, 2024)
Seamless Integration, Enhanced Experience
Despite the advanced technology, Google Beam—and the HP Dimension—doesn’t require users to wear headsets, glasses, or any specialized equipment. While a white background is recommended for an optimal
experience, it isn’t strictly necessary. The system also incorporates adaptive lighting to ensure realistic shadows and natural skin tones, enhancing the sense of realism.
The HP Dimension also boasts spatial audio, designed to anchor the voice directly to the caller’s image. This is achieved through HP’s new Poly Studio A2 table mics and four speakers positioned behind a curved, acoustically transparent mid-wall. Andrew Nartker, general manager of Google Beam, emphasized the goal: “The ultimate goal of Google Beam — and it’s manifested on HP Dimension — is to feel like you’re there.”
“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.”
Availability and Early Adopters
The HP Dimension is slated for release in the US, Canada, the UK, France, Germany, and Japan later this year. Several major companies, including Salesforce, Deloitte, and NEC Corporation, have already expressed their commitment to integrating Google Beam into their workplaces.
