Trendy Hardware Suppliers for Video Conferencing and Their "Cutting-Edge" AI Features

By Randy Marcotte, MPA, President of DCS Global

In an era where video conferencing has become an integral part of our daily business operations, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing these platforms cannot be overstated. As we install and sell our way through 2024, several top hardware suppliers have incorporated AI-driven features into their video conferencing solutions, significantly improving the user experience and meeting efficiency. Below, I outline the top trends in AI tools for video conferencing and highlight the contributions of leading hardware suppliers and platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Logitech, NEAT, Yealink, Poly, and AVer.???

Next month, like many of you, I am headed to InfoCOMM, where I am certain AI will be a buzzword from every booth.? I’ll report back on the benefits and reality as I see it.?

Additionally, we are taking on reseller relationships with a number of software partners that add into and add onto the experience of video conferencing solutions. From meeting summaries to HR Compliance and general sentiment analysis, there are some incredibly powerful (and invasive) tools coming to market.? More on that later.?

Since this push to AI the heck out of video conferencing, I’ve seen some features emerging.?

Real-time Language Translation and Transcription?

• AI-driven language translation and transcription tools have revolutionized global collaboration. These tools offer real-time translations and generate automated meeting transcripts, ensuring that language barriers no longer hinder effective communication. This feature is essential for multinational corporations that need to foster seamless interactions among diverse teams. Platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams are integrating these capabilities to enhance global collaboration.?

In one recent meeting, I used a natural language translation tool that coached me and a LATAM partner to speak in our native languages while presenting our thoughts in their language of choice and with a voiceover in their language. I don’t speak Portuguese or Spanish, so AI did it for me.? We had to go slower, so the natural cadence was off—but we got the job done “without” a translator and the transcription included clear action items and promised deliverables.???

Intelligent Meeting Assistants?

• AI-powered meeting assistants are becoming indispensable for modern businesses. These assistants automate scheduling, note-taking, and action item tracking, streamlining administrative tasks and improving overall meeting efficiency. By reducing the burden of manual tasks, intelligent meeting assistants allow participants to focus more on the content of the meeting rather than logistical details. Microsoft Teams' virtual assistant, Cortana, and Zoom's AI-driven features exemplify these advancements.?

Take a look at StartingPoint.AI if you have not already. These guys are one to something. This till will help you automate and integrate repetitive (but important) project management tasks across platforms.???

Human Detection and Camera Control?

• AI-driven human detection technology ensures that cameras focus on active speakers, enhancing video quality and keeping participants in focus and centered on the screen. AVer, a leading hardware supplier, has been at the forefront of this innovation. Their advanced camera systems utilize AI to track and highlight speakers, ensuring a more professional and engaging meeting experience. Similarly, Logitech’s AI-powered RightSight technology automatically adjusts the camera to frame participants perfectly.?

Enhanced Security and Privacy?

• As the reliance on video conferencing grows, so does the need for robust security measures. AI contributes significantly to this aspect by providing advanced security features such as end-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication. These measures ensure that meetings remain secure and confidential, protecting sensitive information from potential breaches. Zoom and Microsoft Teams are known for their robust security protocols, including end-to-end encryption and advanced authentication measures.?

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)?

• The integration of AR and VR into video conferencing platforms is transforming how virtual meetings are conducted. These technologies create immersive experiences that are particularly beneficial for industries like design, engineering, and architecture, where visual collaboration is crucial. AR and VR enable participants to share 3D models, conduct virtual tours, and engage in collaborative environments that go beyond traditional video conferencing. NEAT and Poly are exploring AR/VR integrations to enhance their video conferencing solutions.?

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The best of what I’ve seen here is a plug-in for Zoom that allows a construction team to walk a site and the software overlay starts measuring and identifying potential layouts, designs, and hazards when planning out renovations.?

Advanced Analytics?

• AI-powered analytics tools track and measure participant behavior and meeting performance, providing valuable insights that can be used to improve future meetings and business communication strategies. These analytics can help organizations understand engagement levels, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to enhance overall meeting effectiveness. Zoom and Microsoft Teams offer advanced analytics features to help organizations optimize their meeting strategies.?

I’ve been particularly impressed by the scores and ratings out of Read.AI , although it has identified that I use far more colorful terms than I thought I did and that I tend to favor a particular coworker with positive reinforcement when he’s in a meeting.? AI as a mirror?? Who knew??

Enhanced User Experience and Simplified Interfaces?

• AI helps create more intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, reducing the complexity of setting up and joining meetings. This ensures a smoother experience for users and minimizes technical difficulties. Simplified interfaces and improved usability are critical for ensuring that all participants can effectively engage in virtual meetings, regardless of their technical expertise. Yealink and Poly are known for their user-friendly designs and seamless integration with various video conferencing platforms.?

Let me sum it up --- Key Benefits of AI in Video Conferencing?

• Improved Accessibility: Real-time transcription and translation make meetings more accessible to participants with different language backgrounds and hearing impairments.?
• Increased Efficiency: Automated scheduling, note-taking, and task management streamline administrative tasks, allowing participants to focus more on the content of the meeting.?
• Enhanced Engagement: AI tools that improve video and audio quality, along with immersive AR/VR experiences, make meetings more engaging and interactive.?
• Better Security: Advanced AI-driven security measures protect sensitive information and ensure that meetings are conducted in a secure environment.?
• Actionable Insights: Analytics tools provide detailed insights into meeting performance and participant behavior, helping organizations make data-driven decisions.?

Some closing thoughts, pre-InfoComm:? The time to get your AI integration strategy in video collaboration has come due.? Set up a strategy before the providers force something on you that doesn’t fit your business needs.? It’s here, and it’s here to stay. The integration of AI in video conferencing platforms by top hardware suppliers and software platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Logitech, NEAT, Yealink, Poly, and AVer is enhancing accessibility, efficiency, engagement, security, and data insights. As these technologies continue to evolve, we can expect even more innovative solutions that will further transform the way we conduct virtual meetings.?

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