Video Conferencing

During the pandemic lockdowns, the humble webcam has helped many of us feel less isolated, but can lack depth. What we need is the kind of freestanding holograms like the one in Star Wars. We're not there yet, but the M by Portl comes pretty close.

New research is offering some of the first empirical evidence of the fatiguing effects of camera use in virtual meetings. The research is part of an increasing body of study into the effects of remote work and the phenomenon known as "Zoom Fatigue."

Wearing headphones for extended Zoom sessions can be an uncomfortable experience, but using a laptop's built-in speakers can be less than ideal. Sony has launched a wireless neckband speaker designed for all-day comfort while working from home.

Computer tech giant Dell challenged itself to create a webcam that could deliver "DSLR-like image quality while being intelligent and easy-to-use." The UltraSharp Webcam is the result, a 4K videochat tool that promises to keep users in the frame.

Stanford University scientists have conducted the first large survey into the modern phenomenon of "Zoom Fatigue." They found women suffer from greater exhaustion following videoconferencing compared to men, and the researchers think they know why.

A new study is challenging the common assumption that video conferencing is better than audio-only communication for collaborative group activities. The findings suggest video cues may in fact lower a group’s collective intelligence by disrupting interpersonal synchrony.

A new study from Stanford University is investigating the very modern phenomenon of "Zoom Fatigue." The research suggests there are four factors that make videoconferencing so uniquely tiring, and some simple solutions that could reduce exhaustion.

The current pandemic has seen an uptick in online video chats. You can use smartphones and laptops, but those who prefer quality webcams may find them out of stock. Jeff Geerling built his own using a Raspberry Pi Zero W and a HQ camera module.

A systemic review has concluded cognitive behavioral therapy does not need to be conducted in person to be effective. The study found the therapy was as effective when administered using video conferencing and email tools, as face-to-face sessions.

Since many of us can no longer have face-to-face chats with family and friends, we've turned to online video meetups. Google is opening up its Meet video conferencing portal to everyone with a Google account for free.

Video conferencing calls have quickly become a mainstay of socializing in 2020, and now Facebook is throwing its sizeable hat in the ring with a new service called Messenger Rooms, which will be able to accommodate up to 50 people.

Facebook has three new Portal video calling devices to show off, including one that connects to your TV.