Neat launches App Hub to enhance virtual collaboration

Neat has announced the general availability of its Neat App Hub, aiming to enhance collaboration in virtual meeting spaces. The Neat App Hub brings a suite of curated applications directly to Neat devices, which include solutions for workplace experience, shared space collaboration, and custom web applications.

The company highlights the significance of this development in the context of the video conferencing market, which was valued at USD $9.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD $25.0 billion by 2032. This growth is driven primarily by the increased demand for remote and hybrid work solutions.

"In today's workplaces, video devices are essential. Organisations where video is embedded into their culture are now asking, 'How can we enhance collaboration even further?' Based on ANZ partner and customer feedback we anticipate strong demand for Neat App Hub as it evolves to improve collaboration workflows," said Jason MacBride, Regional Director for Neat Australia and New Zealand.

Neat App Hub includes more than two dozen providers, ranging from global market leaders to specialised firms, which offer innovative applications addressing daily workflow needs. This lineup is set to expand through Neat's Developer Program, which seeks to foster the creation of new applications.

The first wave of app providers focuses on room and desk booking as well as digital signage for the Neat Pad. These are already available to customers. The next set of use cases, which include wayfinding, visitor management, virtual receptionists, and standalone digital signage for Neat video devices, will enter beta in the latter part of 2024. Custom web apps will also start beta availability in Q4 2024.

"Neat App Hub makes it easy to integrate the daily applications teams rely on into today's modern workplace. It's the continuation of our ongoing commitment to offering customers more choice and flexibility because as tools and technology progress, so do teams' requirements," commented Hellene Garcia, Vice President of Emerging Technologies for Neat. "Neat App Hub is not just a static platform but a dynamic and growing ecosystem that adapts to the diverse ways teams work, ensuring Neat devices deliver value today and are primed to support the needs of our customers in the future."

These applications can be shared into Microsoft Teams and Zoom meetings using Neat Share, currently expected to enter beta in Q4 2024. Neat Share aims to enable more engaging and productive collaboration sessions by integrating traditionally desktop-based tools and workflows into Neat devices utilised in shared spaces.

The relaunch of Neat App Hub and the expansion of its ecosystem reflect the company's commitment to enhancing the video conferencing experience. As tools and technologies evolve, Neat aims to ensure that its customers have the choice and flexibility they need to meet their evolving requirements.