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Are USB Speakerphones Still Relevant in the UC Age?

Unified Communications has been a term familiar to many for several years now, but in the UC age, where workers are communicating through multiple devices and software platforms, is the humble USB speakerphone still relevant?

USB Speakerphones Take Portable Sound Further

With the improvements in capability and connectivity of a range of devices in recent years, we’re now using a wider variety of devices in the workplace than ever before. Notebooks and laptops are no longer the staple office equipment while desk phones have been replaced by tablets and mobiles.

While the flexibility offered by this range of technology is advantageous, smaller devices often have to compromise on the power of their speakers due to the size of the device. The result is a lacklustre sound output and quality.

Combine this low sound output with an increasing desire to work flexibly and a problem arises. With lots of people gathering around a small device to hold a conference call, whether that’s a laptop, mobile or tablet, those on the call can often be left struggling to hear dialogue.

USB-C Speakerphone for All Devices

The move to working from many devices has also led to a convergence on wired connection types. While for years, PCs and laptops relied on larger USB-A connectors for external devices, the move to smaller USB-C connectors on newer laptops will bring a common connection type with mobile phones.

This is because from 2024, a whole host of new small electronic items will be required to use the USB-C connection type (source: BBC). This means that USB-C speakerphones will work across a wider range of communication devices than ever before.

This could make a portable conference speakerphone an essential piece of communications equipment for a wide range of workers.

Portable Speakerphone

It’s this portability that is a key factor in keeping USB speakerphones relevant. While many of us now work flexibly across the office, home or wherever else, we often take part in conference calls, or video conferences.

Of course, headsets have their place but so do portable speakerphones, giving users a device which can be quickly set up to broadcast sound across a larger area. Ideal for those of us who are on the go, meeting clients face to face, perhaps in co-working spaces which aren’t always the best equipped.

Of course, you don’t need to be with a large audience to feel the benefit of a USB conference call speakerphone, some of us just prefer not to wear a headset. In this case, a USB speakerphone for your laptop or PC is the ideal solution, giving you clear, high quality sound which you can take with you wherever you work from.

The Best Speakerphone for Zoom, RingCentral and More

From Microsoft Teams, Zoom and RingCentral to Google Meet, with so many online meeting and customer service platforms available, it can be difficult to know what the best speakerphone for these platforms is.

You might not think this matters, but with many organisations restricting users installing software such as drivers, a Plug & Play USB speakerphone such as the JPL Convey is ideal. With no software needed, your teams can just plug in and get on with using a portable speakerphone on whichever communications platform you need to use.

Speak to an Expert

If you’re struggling to decide on the right solution for your business, don’t be afraid to speak to an expert who knows what’s what. The JPL team is always on hand to support you in making the best decision for your business and are able to answer any questions you may have.

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