Google Launches Beam 3D Calls on $25,000 HP Hardware in 6 Countries
Updated
Updated · Computerworld · Sep 24
Google Launches Beam 3D Calls on $25,000 HP Hardware in 6 Countries
3 articles · Updated · Computerworld · Sep 24
Summary
Google has opened general sales of Beam, its 3D videoconferencing system, bundled with HP’s Dimension hardware after years of development under the Project Starline name.
HP’s setup costs about $25,000 per unit and is initially selling in Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the UK and the US, with Google also offering demos through Industrious sites in cities including New York and Palo Alto.
Beam uses AI-generated 3D imagery, spatial audio, a 65-inch display, cameras, a 12-microphone array and lighting to create life-size one-to-one meetings, while supporting Google Meet and Zoom.
Google said an internal study found 50% of users felt more connected and follow-up meetings fell 21%; Bain has used early-access systems for remote interviews to better read body language and cut travel.
Adoption remains uncertain because both ends of a call need Beam equipment, and analysts say the price will likely confine early demand to high-value uses such as executive meetings, hiring and product demos.