ClearOne will buy cloud collaboration company Spontania from Spain-based Dialcom Networks, S.L. in an all-cash deal for €3.65 million.

Spontania is a software-based cloud collaboration solution that combines video conferencing and web conferencing into a single enterprise solution that can scale to 10,000+ users. This will expand ClearOne’s videoconferencing offerings by adding subscription-based SaaS and PaaS to its existing hardware-based solutions.

Spontania enables real-time video and voice conferencing, presence and instant messaging, as well as advanced collaboration services, including the ability to share interactive whiteboard, media files and presentations. Designed to be flexible, Spontania is interoperable with other standards-based conferencing and communication platforms and runs on multiple platforms and devices including Android and iOS for smartphones and tablets, and on PC platforms such as Windows, Linux and Mac. Read more...

Telepresence robots are nothing new, but they tend to be aimed at executive boardrooms with prices to match. Suitable Technologies wants to change that with the Beam+, a more affordable version of its own Beam telepresence tool.

The Beam+ looks like a 10-inch iPad on top a 3-wheel motorised mount, and features two 640x480 HDR cameras, 4-microphone array and a "powerful" amplifier. Once connected to the internet it allows users to maneuver around the house in real-time and check what the kids, pets or friends are getting up to while video chatting via included software.

Mind, much like the Daleks regularly giving Dr. Who trouble, the Beam+ cannot actually climb stairs...

Peter A. Leav joins Polycom as President and Chief Executive Officer. He also will serve as a Director on Polycom’s Board.

Leav succeeds interim CEO Kevin Parker, who will continue serving as Chairman of the Board of Polycom, and will work closely with Leav on a transition plan.

In Leav’s most recent role at NCR, he was Executive VP and President of Industry and Field Operations, responsible for 8000 employees across 120 countries who delivered more than $5.7 billion in sales in 2012. He led NCR’s global go-to-market efforts, including the NCR Global Sales organization’s direct and indirect sales channels, Professional Services, and Industry Lines of Business, focusing on customers in the Financial Services, Retail, Hospitality, Travel and Technology and Telecom industries. Leav also led NCR’s Interactive Printer Solutions division, managing its global footprint of manufacturing and distribution capabilities. Leav was a member of NCR’s Executive Committee, helping to develop and execute on the company’s global strategy. Read more...

Engage Production launches i-LAND in collaboration with BiG Innovation: bespoke digitally-enabled workspaces to enhance creativity and communication to stimulate business growth.

The i-LAND concept consolidates Engage’s extensive experience in the field of experiential marketing. Previous Engage business installations have been proven to increase revenue through richer client engagement, enhancing business development and improving the decision-making process. Groups working in an environment similar to i-LAND have been found to be more productive, make better-informed decisions, and foster more symbiotic relationships resulting in greater collaboration. Read more...