The News: Crestron Electronics, a leader in workplace collaboration technology, announced new Zoom Rooms certifications and dedicated solutions at Zoomtopia 2023. The Videobar 70, an all-in-one collaboration bar with intelligent video capabilities, has been certified for Zoom Rooms software. Additionally, Crestron introduced the Zoom Phone Appliance, optimized for individual desktop use in both office and remote settings. The company also unveiled a native Zoom Scheduling Panel, enhancing the user experience (UX) for organizations using the Zoom Rooms platform. These updates underscore Crestron’s commitment to expanding its portfolio for Zoom customers.
Read the full press release on Crestron’s website and learn more about Crestron’s Zoom Solutions here.
Expanding Commitment to Zoom: Crestron’s Latest Zoom Solutions
Analyst Take: In the ever-evolving landscape of workplace collaboration technology, Crestron Electronics has again positioned itself at the forefront. At the recent Zoomtopia 2023 event, the global leader announced a series of new certifications and dedicated solutions, further solidifying its partnership with Zoom. This move is not only a testament to Crestron’s commitment to innovation but also a clear indication of the growing importance of Zoom as an enterprise collaboration tool.
The Videobar 70: A Standout Solution for Medium to Large Conference Rooms
The Videobar 70 stands out as one of Crestron’s most notable announcements. This all-in-one collaboration bar, now certified for Zoom Rooms software, is built on the Android OS and boasts four high-resolution cameras with intelligent video capabilities. These features, such as speaker tracking, group framing, and conversation mode, are complemented by beamforming microphones, making it a comprehensive front-of-room solution. Its ability to detect speakers from up to 30 feet away positions the Videobar 70 as a solid solution for medium to large conference rooms. When paired with a Crestron touchscreen native to the Zoom Rooms platform, UX is further enhanced, allowing for seamless one-touch meeting joins and room control.
Crestron Zoom Phone Appliance: A Nod to the Future of Work
The debut of the Crestron Zoom Phone Appliance is another significant highlight. Part of the Crestron Flex Phone product line, this dedicated Zoom Phone Appliance is optimized for individual desktop use, whether in the office or at home. Available in both 8” and 10” touchscreen models, it offers a high-resolution display, 1080p camera, and 360-degree audio pickup. This device is especially timely given the rise of hot desk stations and the increasing number of permanent remote workers. By providing a dedicated meeting device, Crestron ensures that users can maintain productivity without overloading their PCs.
A Continued Commitment To Zoom Integration
Beyond these standout products, Crestron’s also announced the introduction of a native Zoom Scheduling Panel and the certification of intelligent video cameras such as the AutoTracker and AutoFramer for the Zoom Rooms collaboration platform. These additions further emphasize Crestron’s dedication to creating a cohesive and streamlined Zoom experience for its customers. The company’s historical offerings, combined with these new solutions, position Crestron as a leader in the room scheduling space, offering consistent UX for organizations standardized on the Zoom Rooms platform.
Looking Forward
Crestron’s announcements at Zoomtopia 2023 are a clear indication of the company’s commitment to enhancing the Zoom workplace portfolio. By introducing new devices tailored to the specific needs of Zoom customers and by continuing to foster a strong partnership with Zoom, Crestron is setting a benchmark for other players in the industry.
Disclosure: The Futurum Group is a research and advisory firm that engages or has engaged in research, analysis, and advisory services with many technology companies, including those mentioned in this article. The author does not hold any equity positions with any company mentioned in this article.
Analysis and opinions expressed herein are specific to the analyst individually and data and other information that might have been provided for validation, not those of The Futurum Group as a whole.
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Author Information
As Practice Lead - Workplace Collaboration, Craig focuses on developing research, publications and insights that clarify how the workforce, the workplace, and the workflows enable group collaboration and communication. He provides research and analysis related to market sizing and forecasts, product and service evaluations, market trends, and end-user and buyer expectations. In addition to following the technology, Craig also studies the human elements of work - organizing his findings into the workforce, the workplace, and the workflows – and charting how these variables influence technologies and business strategies.
Prior to joining Wainhouse, now a part of The Futurum Group, Craig brings twenty years of experience in leadership roles related to P&L management, product development, strategic planning, and business development of security, SaaS, and unified communication offerings. Craig's experience includes positions at Poly, Dell, Microsoft, and IBM.
Craig holds a Master of Business Administration from the Texas McCombs School of Business as well as a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Tulane University.
