Microsoft’s Lync comms system is becoming a must have for VC and voice over IP, particularly for Polycom, which already has 40 systems that work on Lync, and has just added the CX8000, a dedicated Lync Room System, with tight integration with Microsoft Outlook and one-touch meeting arrangements.
It includes the CX5100 360º HD panoramic camera, HD voice, and active speaker tracking (which automatically takes a window from the 360º image). Polycom has also enhanced its videoconferencing systems and PBX handsets for Lync.
“Lync for voice is growing very quickly in the market,” said Tim Stone, VP Marketing EMEA. Polycom now has 76% of the Lync handset market (according to recent research).
Microsoft “is really our most important partner”, added Charlie James, Polycom’s Alliance Director for Microsoft.
Although basic Lync services are available in software, “a large number of customers still need physical devices for the desktop and conference room, and users don’t want video to be a separate island”, said Stone.
Stand: 12-A74
