Google target videoconferencing with Chromebox
With the release of the Google Chromebox this year, they have introduced the new hardware for video conferencing titled Chromebox for meetings. Priced at around £700 the package contains the Chromebox itself featuring an i7 processor, a HD 1080p video camera and a single loudspeaker with built it microphone that is loud enough for fill any boardroom. Equipped with a RF remote control the Chromebox will seamlessly stream video to your boardroom projector or HDTV via Skype, Google Hangouts and even Apple facetime. Google Hangout supports up to 10 video cameras simultaneously so subject to your internet speed, it could open HD video conferencing up to a new level to businesses that have previously only been able to run VOIP systems.
So what makes this different from other video conferencing units?
Well this is based purely on the Google OS platform so it does make it more future proof. Technology today is moving at such a fast pace, no sooner than you buying your new piece of hardware it’s being replaced by the next generation. Google will automatically update the software on your device extending the lifespan and hopefully staying powerful enough to adapt to any new technology that’s introduced for years to come.
Limitations
As with any computer that requires an Internet connection to do its duties, Chromebox falls under the same spell; if you suffer with a poor connection it could very well cause you problems. To use the Chromebox for conferencing you should make sure you have both a good Internet upload and download speed for it to perform well.
Not just for video conferencing
The Chromebox is not just a conferencing unit, the stylish box runs the Chrome OS which is becoming increasingly popular as a cloud based business tool. Google OS comes built-in with Google Apps and services that can be used anywhere with an Internet connection. The device is very portable but without a built in keyboard or screen, it’s not likely to replace the laptop anytime soon.
Chromebox is also standalone
Asus also plan the release of the standalone version of the Chromebox in March 2014 (US release date), however this will be a water down version of the device priced at a fraction of the cost of around £120.
The specification is set to include a 4th generation Intel Celeron 2955U, 2GB of DDR3 memory, integrated Intel graphics, 16GB SSD local, 100GB of Google Drive cloud storage, 802.11n Wireless, and a Gigabit Ethernet card. With the Chrome OS running on such little resources compared to a Windows computer, it requires a lot less power to do its tasks keeping the machine running fast enough for your everyday use. Sadly for those who require more like photo editing software or specialist desktop based problems it will be a while before we see these on the Chromebox.
Steve Maz
Business IT
Altrincham PC Mobile Centre Ltd
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