HP Poly: transforming the hybrid workplace and empowering the future of work   

Veronica Martin caught up with Bob Aoun, Sales Director at HP Poly, during GITEX 2024 to explore how AI is being integrated across HP Poly’s products to enhance productivity and collaboration, HP Poly’s vision for the future of AI in hybrid work and how their AI-powered tools are set to transform workplace interactions.  

How is AI being integrated across HP Poly’s products to enhance productivity and collaboration in hybrid work environments? 

At HP, innovation is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re proud to be pioneers in this space. This year, our focus is on AI-enabled solutions, specifically designed to enhance hybrid work experiences. As work styles continue to evolve, we recognise that individuals have unique ways of collaborating and communicating with their colleagues and customers. 

To support this, we are committed to making interactions more productive and efficient without sacrificing flexibility. By harnessing the power of AI, we’ve embedded advanced features into our products to proactively enhance the experiences employees expect. 

One of our key innovations is in video and audio communication. We’ve introduced solutions that minimise disruptions during meetings, ensuring that every participant’s voice is clearly heard, no matter where they are—whether in the office or working remotely. With our Poly Director AI and audio innovations, you can focus on the conversation at hand without the stress of missing important details or interruptions. 

For example, imagine walking into a room and instantly being framed perfectly by a camera that captures your best angle, regardless of your movements. That’s the magic of our embedded Director AI technology. On the audio side, we’ve integrated advanced features like acoustic fans and noise reduction. This means that even in a bustling environment, your voice is crystal clear while background noise fades away, allowing for seamless communication. 

With our solutions you can be confident that your ideas will be presented effectively, and your voice will be heard clearly. At HP, we are dedicated to ensuring that technology not only supports hybrid work but enhances the way we connect and collaborate. 

Can you explain how HP Poly’s AI-powered meeting analytics tools improve the hybrid work experience and streamline communication?

We recently launched our Work Relationship Index survey, revealing some compelling insights into employee experiences. According to the survey, only 28% of employees report having a healthy relationship with their work. Remarkably, over 70% indicated they would be willing to accept a pay cut to maintain their work flexibility. 

This highlights a crucial role that AI can play in fostering a positive work environment. By leveraging new technologies, we can enhance the relationship between employees and their companies, promoting efficiency while preserving the flexibility that today’s workforce values. For instance, consider a typical scenario in a meeting room. Traditionally, video conferencing solutions offered limited views of participants, often leaving remote attendees struggling to see who was speaking or even recognise their colleagues in the room.  

However, with our AI-enabled cameras and solutions compatible with platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, we can now automatically frame each person in the room. This ensures that remote participants receive a clear and equitable view, making it easier for everyone to engage and contribute. 

These innovations are just one example of how we are embedding advanced technology across our portfolio to enhance employee experiences and strengthen connections within the workplace. We are committed to creating solutions that empower employees and foster better relationships with their companies. 

How do HP Poly’s solutions bridge the gap between home and office workspaces to ensure the best of both worlds for workers? 

In the realm of video conferencing, success hinges on two key factors: how you are perceived and how you are heard. At HP, we recognise that employees desire flexibility—the ability to work from home, the office, or anywhere they choose. To support this need, we’ve developed innovative audio solutions that empower individuals to maintain their autonomy while ensuring maximum productivity. 

Whether you’re working from home or in a shared office space, our conferencing and audio tools guarantee that you’ll be both seen and heard clearly, regardless of your location. With HP’s cutting-edge technology, you can confidently engage in meetings and collaborate effectively, knowing that you have the tools to communicate seamlessly with your team. 

How do you see HP Poly’s products influencing workers’ relationships with their work, particularly in hybrid settings? 

In our recent work relationship survey, we found that a significant number of employees acknowledge their work relationships are unhealthy. More than 70% of respondents expressed that they need the right tools to enhance their productivity and efficiency, regardless of their work environment. 

To address this, we have introduced a range of innovative solutions designed to support employees in any setting—be it a meeting room, a personal desk, or even a coffee shop. Our aim is to create adaptable workplaces that prioritise employee productivity, ensuring that individuals can focus on their tasks without worrying about how well they’re being heard or seen. With our advanced tools, employees can engage confidently and effectively, no matter where they choose to work. 

What is HP Poly’s vision for the future of AI in hybrid work, and how do you plan to stay ahead in this evolving landscape? 

AI in hybrid work isn’t a new concept; it’s been evolving for quite some time and continues to advance with innovative solutions. One of the most exciting visions we’ve always discussed is the idea of 3D conferencing, where participants can truly feel as if they are sitting in the same room. 

We’re thrilled to announce that, in collaboration with our partners, we are bringing Project Starline to life. This groundbreaking initiative will provide a 3D experience that allows you to engage with colleagues as if they are just a metre away from you. With AI seamlessly integrated into our cameras and audio solutions, this technology is set to transform the way we communicate. 

We invite any interested customers to experience this revolutionary way of conferencing firsthand. We would be delighted to showcase this innovative solution and allow you to be among the first to explore the future of hybrid communication. 

Image Credit: HP Poly