Poly: Redefining Professional Communication and Collaboration Technology

Poly, formerly known as Polycom and Plantronics, represents one of the most trusted names in professional communication technology. Born from the 2018 merger of two legendary brands and now part of the HP family since 2022, Poly delivers cutting-edge video conferencing systems, wireless headsets, and collaboration tools designed for the modern workplace.

The Evolution of a Communication Powerhouse

The Poly story begins with Plantronics in 1961, founded by two airline pilots seeking better communication headsets. Their innovation caught NASA’s attention, and Plantronics headsets became part of history when astronauts used them during the Apollo missions. On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong’s famous words were transmitted through a Plantronics headset.

Strategic Mergers Shape Modern Poly

The communication landscape transformed dramatically in 2018 when Plantronics acquired Polycom for approximately $2 billion. This strategic merger combined Plantronics’ expertise in personal audio devices with Polycom’s leadership in group collaboration technology. In 2019, the combined entity rebranded as “Poly,” derived from the Greek word for “many,” symbolizing the diverse ways people communicate and collaborate.

Why Businesses Choose Poly Solutions

Uncompromising Audio Quality

Poly’s legendary reputation stems from proprietary audio technologies including Acoustic Clarity, NoiseBlockAI, and WindSmart. These advanced features ensure crystal-clear communication even in challenging environments, eliminating background noise, echo, and distortion that plague inferior solutions.


Seamless Platform Integration

Enterprise-Grade Security

Scalable Management Solutions

IT departments benefit from Poly Lens, a cloud-based management platform providing visibility and control over Poly devices. This enterprise software enables remote configuration, firmware updates, analytics, and troubleshooting from a centralized dashboard, simplifying deployment across thousands of endpoints.

Top 5 Poly Products Transforming Modern Workspaces

Poly Studio X70 – Premium Video Bar for Large Conference Rooms

The Poly Studio X70 represents the pinnacle of all-in-one video conferencing technology, combining razor-sharp 4K video with boardroom-filling stereo sound. This sophisticated video bar eliminates the complexity of traditional conferencing setups while delivering professional-grade performance.

Key Features:

Dual 4K camera lenses with 20-megapixel sensors

Wide field of view (140° DFOV) and narrow option (78° DFOV)

7.3X digital zoom for detailed close-ups

AI-powered speaker tracking and automatic group framing

NoiseBlockAI technology for pristine audio

Integrated two-way stereo speakers with aluminum cone tweeters

Built-in CO2 sensor for meeting room analytics

Wireless content sharing capabilities

Compatible with Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet

Ideal For:

Large conference rooms accommodating 6+ participants, executive boardrooms, training facilities

Note:

The Studio X70 has been succeeded by the Studio X72 as of July 2024, featuring enhanced specifications and updated technology.

Poly Voyager Focus 2 UC – Premium Active Noise-Canceling Wireless Headset

The Voyager Focus 2 UC sets the standard for professional wireless headsets, offering unprecedented freedom of movement combined with adaptive Active Noise-Canceling (ANC) technology. This over-the-ear Bluetooth headset delivers exceptional audio quality for both calls and music.

Key Features:

Three-level adjustable Active Noise Canceling

Acoustic Fence technology blocks up to 15dB of background noise

Four precision microphones for crystal-clear voice pickup

Up to 25 hours talk time (with ANC off)

Up to 24 hours listening time (with ANC on)

Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity with 164-foot range

Simultaneous connection to PC, mobile, and desk phone

Smart sensors for automatic call answering

Microsoft Teams Open Office Premium Microphone certified

SoundGuard Digital hearing protection

Ideal For:

Open office environments, remote workers, executives requiring flexibility, call center professionals

Available Accessories:

Charging stand, carrying case, multiple USB adapter options (USB-A and USB-C with BT700 adapter)

Poly Savi 8200 Office Series – Triple-Connectivity DECT Wireless Headset

The Savi 8200 Office Series delivers exceptional versatility through secure DECT wireless technology, enabling seamless connectivity across desk phones, computers, and mobile devices. Available in mono (8210), stereo (8220), and convertible (8240/8245) configurations.

Key Features:

Triple connectivity: desk phone, PC/Mac, and mobile (via Bluetooth)

Secure 64-bit DECT encryption

Up to 590-foot (180-meter) wireless range

Active Noise Canceling (ANC) in stereo models

13 hours talk time on single charge

Conference up to four headsets on one base

SoundGuard Digital acoustic protection

LED busy light indicators on base station

Microsoft Teams and Zoom certified versions available

Compatible with Poly Lens management software

Ideal For

Call centers, healthcare facilities, corporate offices requiring secure communications, professionals juggling multiple communication platforms

Recent Update

The Savi 8400 Office Series launched in 2024, featuring redesigned bases with LED screens and improved user interfaces.

Poly Trio 8800 – Smart Conference Phone for Large Meeting Rooms

The Poly Trio 8800 transforms conference calling into a comprehensive collaboration experience. This intelligent IP conference phone serves as a hub for audio calls, video conferencing, and content sharing, all controlled through an intuitive 5-inch touchscreen.

Key Features:

6-meter (20-foot) 360-degree microphone pickup

Poly HD Voice technology with 14 kHz audio bandwidth

Three-arm design with integrated speakers and microphones

Full-color touchscreen for easy navigation

Built-in Wi-Fi, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity

NoiseBlock technology eliminates background distractions

One-touch meeting join for faster collaboration

Expandable with additional microphones for larger spaces

Compatible with SIP platforms, Microsoft Teams, Zoom

Optional Visual+ module adds video conferencing capability

Ideal For:

Large boardrooms, training rooms, collaborative spaces hosting 10-15 participants

Companion Product:

Trio 8500 designed for medium rooms (6-8 people) with similar features at a lower price point.

Poly SoundStation IP 7000 – Enterprise-Grade SIP Conference Phone

The SoundStation IP 7000 continues the legacy of Poly’s iconic triangular conference phone design while incorporating advanced VoIP technology. This workhorse conference phone delivers exceptional performance for businesses using SIP-based telephony platforms.

Key Features:

Poly HD Voice for natural-sounding conversations

Acoustic Clarity Technology eliminates echo and feedback

360-degree microphone coverage for entire room

Backlit LCD display (248 x 68 pixels) for easy menu navigation

Power over Ethernet (IEEE 802.3af) support

Expandable with external microphones for larger rooms

Multi-unit connectivity for enhanced coverage

Web-based configuration for easy IT management

Compatible with leading UC platforms

Proven reliability with enterprise-grade build quality

Ideal For

Standard conference rooms, businesses with established VoIP infrastructure, organizations seeking reliable audio conferencing without video

Legacy Value

While newer Trio models offer touchscreens and video options, the SoundStation IP 7000 remains popular for organizations prioritizing straightforward, dependable audio conferencing.


Poly’s Commitment to Hybrid Work Innovation

AI-Powered Meeting Equity

Poly continuously integrates artificial intelligence throughout its product portfolio. Features like DirectorAI smart camera framing, NoiseBlockAI background noise removal, and Acoustic Fence technology ensure every participant – whether in the room or remote – enjoys equal participation and clarity.


Sustainable Design Philosophy

Recognizing environmental responsibility, Poly incorporates sustainable practices in product development, including energy-efficient components, recyclable packaging, and long product lifecycles that reduce electronic waste.

Future-Ready Architecture

Poly designs products with modular, scalable architectures ensuring they evolve alongside changing business needs. Regular firmware updates add new features and platform compatibility, protecting technology investments long-term.

Frequently Asked Questions