Cisco shows Umi video conferencing system for HDTVs
updated 05:50 pm EDT, Wed October 6, 2010
Ciscotelepresence system coming this month
Cisco has introduced its ūmi telepresence video conferencing system for existing HDTVs on Wednesday. It is made up of a 1080p camera module, dedicated remote, and a set-top box. The setup can deliver 1080p video calls with 720p recording at 30fps, but can reduce quality to 720p/480p as needed when bandwidth is at a premium.
The glass lens camera can be used to record videos that can be shared on Facebook, YouTube or by e-mail. The service support Google Voice and Video Chat. There is an optical zoom, autofocus, auto exposure, auto white balance and a motorized pan, tilt, zoom and shutter built into the lens.
The system can record video messages when no one answers, with notifications coming over text. Video greetings can be recorded, and custom ringtones set.
Cisco's ūmi will cost $600 for the hardware and require a $25 per-month or $275 annual service plan, on top of the separately required broadband connection. It ships on October 6 online and November 14 at Best Buy's Magnolia Home Theater stores.
