Umi, pronounced ‘you-me’, is intended to give home users full high definition telepresence, with all the quality of telepresence solutions for the business segment, using the umi hardware, an existing HD TV as well as a broadband web connection.
Cisco is looking to bring full telepresence home, with the unveiling of its consumer-oriented umi telepresence method.
Umi is due for a US-only launch on 14th November, and is expected to cost around $599 for the hardware and a $25 every month subscription that allows limitless video calls.
The method comprises the umi console, camera and remote, will integrate with the HD TV to permit high definition telepresence calls, video messaging and video recording, between umi and any computer with a webcam and Google video chat.
In order to cater to the bandwidth necessary for full HD calls – to accomplish full 1080p performance, ūmi telepresence requires a 3.5Mbps broadband connection both up and down – Cisco is working with US operator Verizon to bring the service to Verizon’s fibre optic network customers.
“Cisco is bringing people together, driving new video experiences that change the way they communicate, connect, and enjoy entertainment – in the house, at work, and on the go,” said John Chambers, chairman and CEO of Cisco. “Cisco ūmi will bring the unique telepresence experience in to living rooms and change the way they can be together with relatives and friends. they envision a future where technologies like this will play a role in connecting consumers with businesses to enable the delivery of new services, ranging from schooling, to health care, to financial services – to the home.”