Microsoft unveils a second version of the Surface Hub-- the Surface Hub 2, an touch-enabled display the company says is thinner, lighter and now primarily aimed for use as a digital flip-chart.
While still marketed as a "traditional" collaboration board for huddle spaces and meeting rooms, the Surface 2 is apparently designed for use as a "team system." As Microsoft puts it, the Surface Hub 2 encourages people to stand up, connect and ideate, regardless of location. As such, it is thinner and more agile, and features a 4K resolution 50.5-inch multi-touch display acting as a digital canvas integrated with Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Whiteboard, Office 365, Windows 10 and the cloud.
The 4K cameras automatically rotate with the display when switched from landscape to portrait modes (and back), while audio comes through integrated speakers and a far-field mic array. Customers can also virtually connect multiple Surface Hub 2 units by simply placing more next to each other, for an effect similar to extending the Windows 10 desktop screen. Customers can tile up to 4 screens together in portrait or landscape, with dynamic rotation allowing one to switch the Hubs according to the current use. A partnership with Steelcase brings a system of rolling stands and mounts, allowing the Surface Hub 2 to be mobile
The Surface Hub 2 will be generally available from 2019.
