In a quest to provide a new category of enhanced teamwork devices called Windows Collaboration Displays, Microsoft is working with selected manufacturers of large interactive displays to build new displays that offer Microsoft 365 collaboration tools. This new class of display is designed to increase productivity and efficiency during meetings and other collaborative activities. Both Sharp and Avocor have been selected to build this new class of Windows Collaboration Display that feature compatibility with Windows 10, Office 365, Microsoft Whiteboard, Microsoft Teams and Azure IoT Smart Spaces all backed by Microsoft’s intelligent cloud. The new Windows Collaboration Displays will also include built-in sensors to collect environmental data, such as motion, light, temperature and air quality. These sensors will connect to Microsoft’s Azure IoT Smart Spaces allowing facility managers to make real-time decisions.

The Windows Collaboration Displays built by Avocor will offer advanced touchscreen technologies including 20-point touch with smooth pen and inking capabilities. Along with 4K resolution, these displays will also feature integrated cameras, stereo speakers, and far-field microphones. The displays will be powered by any Windows 10 PC connected by a single USB-C cable. Further details, such as screen size(s), pricing and availability are expected to be announced later this summer.

The Windows Collaboration Displays built by Sharp will feature a 70-inch screen, a built-in high-resolution conference camera and multi-touch capabilities. Similarly, these displays will also feature 4K resolution, stereo speakers, and far-field microphones. The displays will also utilize a USB-C connection to a Windows 10 PC for two-way touch and inking functionality and the transmission of 4K video and audio.

PMA Research, providers of current sales data combined with expert analysis of the large-format display market, reported that unit shipments of interactive displays sold through the US distribution channel were up 14% in the second quarter of 2018 compared to the year ago quarter.