Microsoft hands Surface Hub to channel

Vendor talks up long-term aim to get its new device in every meeting space

Microsoft is preparing to hand over to the channel a new device it wants every worker on the planet to use.

The Surface Hub (pictured) is a large-screen collaboration device designed for meeting rooms which allows employees to "come together and get things done". It will be available for resellers to order on 1 July and will be shipped globally from September.

"With Windows 10, Surface Hub provides a platform to build amazing large-screen apps for group productivity, such as the already-built-in custom Office and Skype for Business apps," Microsoft said. "Surface Hub is a fully integrated alternative to costly videoconferencing and digital whiteboard solutions, providing a complete collaboration experience at a competitive price."

When the PC launched, Microsoft's mission was to have one on every desk and in every home. Similarly, it said, the ultimate goal for the Surface Hub is to get it in every meeting space.

"The price reflects that ambition," Microsoft said.

Surface Hub is available in two main configurations: Surface Hub 55in for "huddle spaces" (small conference rooms and offices) is priced at $6,999; and Surface Hub 84in for larger meeting rooms is priced at $19,999. UK pricing was not available but at today's exchange rates, the devices would respectively come in at £4,525 and £12,931.

In the UK, Tech Data will be charged with taking the Surface Hub out to the channel. Globally, the vendor is working with the likes of Ingram Micro and Maverick and "strategic resellers" such as Insight, Kelway and Misco were named as companies that will get their hands on the device.

"Our channel partners have told us they see a real opportunity for Surface Hub to be disruptive in the market and to change the way people think about how they outfit conference rooms and meeting spaces," Microsoft said.