Lenovo describes the ThinkSmart Core Gen 2 as 'one of the first AI-optimized compute devices purpose built to run video conferencing room systems'
Lenovo has announced its new ThinkSmart Core Gen 2 solution, an AI-optimised compute device tailored for running video conferencing systems in meeting spaces.
Lenovo outlines that the ThinkSmart Core Gen 2 is equipped with the Intel Core Ultra processor and an integrated NPU designed to handle AI-intensive meeting room tasks. This aims to ensure exceptional performance, foster seamless collaboration, and boost productivity, all within a secure and user-friendly framework.
Lenovo adds that the ThinkSmart Core Gen 2 fits any room size or setup and intends to efficiently manage heavy AI workloads on the compute device.
Shannon MacKay, General Manager of Worldwide Smart Collaboration Business at Lenovo, said:
Smart collaboration technology continues to advance rapidly with the introduction of AI-enabled features. Customers are looking for more compute power and flexibility to future-proof meeting spaces and take advantage of solutions available now and just over the horizon."
The ThinkSmart Core Gen 2 + Controller begins at $2,900 and will be available by the end of 2024.
Lenovo affirms that the ThinkSmart Core Gen 2 Full Room Kit offers a thorough room solution right out of the box. This single-SKU option encompasses the intelligent ThinkSmart Bar 180, which enables Intelligent Speaker functionality.
Installation and deployment are straightforward, with ample ports for rapid connections to various devices. Regardless of the configuration IT teams choose, Lenovo says collaboration is more secure, thanks to the advanced hardware-based protection of the Intel vPro platform and automatic Windows 11 security updates.
The ThinkSmart Core Gen 2 is designed to enhance meeting rooms with advanced AI capabilities. Powered by the Intel Core™ Ultra processor and Intel vPro platform, it efficiently handles AI workloads with 40 percent lower power consumption. Its NPU architecture, built on Windows 11 IoT, improves compute tasks and data transfer for greater efficiency and security.
Supporting Microsoft Teams Rooms or Zoom Rooms, the device offers AI-enabled features like intelligent participant framing, voice detection, smart name tags, and meeting summaries, enhancing collaboration.
It also boasts versatile cable management, EDID connectivity, and a quiet, fanless design. With Windows 11 IoT, it offers flexible installation options and supports BYOD mode for seamless meetings across platforms.
In July, Lenovo announced Dr Tolga Kurtoglu as its new Chief Technology Officer, with a remit centred around "accelerating... AI leadership".
Dr Kurtolgu succeeded Dr Yong Rui as Lenovo's CTO, following Rui's seven-year tenure leading the company's research. Lenovo also announced the creation of a new Emerging Technology Group focused on identifying emerging tech trends and driving future business growth. Dr Rui now serves as President of this group.
In March, Lenovo expanded its ThinkSmart portfolio to support businesses upgrading their smart meeting rooms.
The Lenovo ThinkSmart Tiny Kit and ThinkPad Universal USB-C Smart Dock - ThinkSmart Edition enable users to use advanced collaboration tools and provide IT managers with managed meeting space solutions. These products transform standard meeting rooms into high-tech video conferencing spaces and Microsoft Teams Rooms, boosting productivity and efficiency in modern workplaces.
In June, Lenovo and Lightware partnered to launch an advanced solution for Microsoft Teams Rooms designed to enhance hybrid work.
The offering integrates Lightware's advanced Taurus devices and LARA control software with Lenovo's ThinkSmart solutions for Microsoft Teams Rooms (MTR). Together, these solutions set new standards for collaboration technology, delivering seamless integration, enhanced functionality, and an improved user experience in modern meeting rooms.