Lenovo launches the ThinkSmart Hub 500

At the Microsoft Ignite Conference today, Lenovo announced the availability of the ThinkSmart Hub 500. The ThinkSmart Hub 500 is a Skype Room Systems device that is designed to enable modern workspace transformation by enabling enhanced collaboration in the conference room. Anyone using Skype for Business can connect with the ThinkSmart Hub to participate in meetings and share content. 

The ThinkSmart Hub 500 is essentially an All-in-One device that has been developed in collaboration with Microsoft. It features a 360-degree rotatable 11.6-inch display and runs on Windows 10 IoT Enterprise. The Hub comes with Dolby Audio Premium for excellent audio clarity, a 360-degree microphone array, and a touch display. The Hub is purpose-built to be ideal for small to medium-sized meeting rooms. 

We are seeing a lot of companies embracing modern Workplace Transformation Initiatives (WTI) to enable better collaboration between on-site and remote workers. Earlier this month, HP announced the EliteOne 1000 built for an immersive Skype for Business experience. Going forward, we can expect many OEMs to debut their own meeting room solutions purpose-built for Skype meetings.

Lenovo will be launching pilot programs with the ThinkSmart Hub 500 later this year. Product availability and pricing is expected in Q1 2018.