In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced a sudden shift towards remote and hybrid work. This created an uneven field for workers, with remote and on-site ones having vastly different experiences. The ecosystem just wasn’t enough to offer them true equity. This shift was always predicted to happen, as it is a key part of the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), it just came too soon. Fast forward to three years later, we are reaching a situation where equity is possible.
Poly, a company specializing in audio and video solutions recently acquired by HP, and NuCurrent, an established giant in wireless power technology, have announced a groundbreaking partnership. They aim to power the next generation of devices and deliver virtual meeting equity for remote, hybrid, and on-site office workers. But what are they promising exactly, and how does it fit into 4IR?
Today officially marks the first day of @PolyCompany and @HP as one company!
HP & Poly are both built on strong values, incredible talent, and cultures rooted in innovation. Together, we’ll continue to pave the way for the #HybridWork experiences of the future. #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/1LftEtowqQ— David J. Danto (@NJDavidD) November 1, 2022
Towards 4IR
The First Industrial Revolution was marked by a transition from hand production methods to machines through the use of steam power and water power. The second one is marked by railroads, telegraphs, and most importantly, electricity. The third is the one most of us were born in — the first digital revolution where many menial, repetitive tasks once worked by humans were given to machines.
We’ve been in the middle of 4IR for a while now. It is characterized by a fusion of technologies that blur the lines between the digital and the physical domains. It was predicted (and rightfully so) that it would be the revolution of artificial intelligence, human-machine cooperation, and Internet of Things integration in as many devices as possible. The pandemic fast-tracked the shift to hybrid work, and we weren’t ready for it. In years since there have been many attempts to polish the ecosystem. With Poly and NuCurrent’s aim for true equity, their partnership may bring this revolution to completion. Of course, the partnership had just started. I am personally looking forward to seeing what exactly they can make together.
https://twitter.com/PolyCompany/status/1641832862176387073
Poly Voyager Free 60 Series
In line with the partnership that is moving towards 4IR, Poly also announced the Poly Voyagers Free 60 Series, a new headset addition to its arsenal of tech for hybrid work. The company highlights the wireless headset’s charging case that promises to expedite charging. Hybrid work may require you to access meetings anytime anywhere, and the charging case aims to support that. The case is said to charge in less than half the time of its leading competitor. It is also certified to the latest Qi standards. This makes it a reliable and flexible option for workers on the go.
According to a study commissioned by Poly, these workers need reliable technology to efficiently transition between environments. Chris Moss, Head of Product and Portfolio Management at Poly is aware of how consumers are still trying to adapt their the new working environment. To answer this need, he believes that “the future of work will be powered by reliable, flexible, pro-grade solutions.”
Conclusion
Moving forward with 4IR means more flexible, reliable, and efficient technologies for remote work. Poly and NuCurrent’s partnership is a step towards true hybrid equity, providing all workers with the tools they need to do their best work.
In the past, people could not see the need for an industrial revolution. People even had to be convinced electricity would make their lives easier. While I can’t fully picture the future after the current revolution, I am eager to see what innovations will arise and how they will shape our work and life. The Voyager Free 60 Series may just be a pair of headphones, but looking at Poly’s portfolio of solutions around hybrid work, I have faith that their partnership with NuCurrent can bring great things.
Photo credits: The feature image is owned by NuCurrent and has been provided for press usage.
Sources: PR Newswire / Library of Congress
