Tandberg has announced a beta version of the first ever high-definition (HD) webcam offering business quality live video communications.

The Tandberg PrecisionHD USB camera is optimised for 720 pixel high definition with 30 frames per second enabling HD video over Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 Release 2.

“This announcement is the next step in our shared vision of a fully integrated, complete unified communications environment. Together, we’ve already opened the world of standards-compliant telepresence and video conferencing to Microsoft Office Communicator 2007 users,” said Fredrik Halvorsen, chief executive officer, Tandberg.

“Now, with the Tandberg PrecisionHD USB Camera, mobile workers using Office Communicator 2007 R2 will be able to connect with each other in business-quality true high definition. Jointly, we are changing the way people communicate.”

“The combination of Office Communications Server 2007 Release 2 and the Tandberg PrecisionHD USB Camera provides a powerful new way for people to collaborate and offers customers a rich and integrated communications experience,” said Eric Swift, senior director of the Microsoft Unified Communications Group at Microsoft Corp. “Tandberg is adding significant value to enterprise communications and enabling businesses to better connect people, information and business processes.”

While the beta program will be initiated in the first quarter of2009, the Tandberg PrecisionHD USB Camera will be available in the Middle East from the second quarter. – TradeArabia News Service