Google launched Google Beam, a 3D video communications platform that will initially launch with HP.
The platform, which was formerly known as Project Starline, is designed to make remote video conferencing 3D and appear like participants are in the same room without glasses or headsets.
Google Beam will use an AI volumetric video model and multiple cameras to make 2D calls look immersive and in 3D. Google Beam is built on Google Cloud infrastructure.
According to Google, Google Beam will combine the AI video model with a light field display that will create a sense of dimension and depth and appear like you're in the same room with the other person.
Google also said it is exploring real-time speech translation with Google Beam. That feature is landing in Google Meet.
Coming to the workplace
HP will be the first vendor to bring Google Beam devices to market later in 2025. HP will unveil the first Google Beam devices at InfoComm, an audio-visual conference that kicks off June 7 to June 13.
However, Google said it is working with Zoom and channel partners to bring Google Beam to market.
Google said it has already been trying out Google Beam with early customers including Deloitte, Salesforce, Citadel, NEC, Hackensack Meridian Health, Duolingo and Recruit.
A few thoughts:
- Google Beam appears to be a big advance in remote collaboration.
- Yet, the Google Beam advance is a bit ironic given that enterprises are hellbent on getting people back to the office.
- Pricing will be the big issue for Google Beam. Of course, Google Beam will be way cheaper than those telepresence systems of yesteryear, but the price point has to appeal to prosumers and consumers too.
- The real win will be embedding this technology into Google Meet and Zoom for market coverage. I assume that Microsoft won't be embedding Google Beam into Teams devices anytime soon.
