Materials company Aruliden has worked with Google Workspace to develop a touchscreen that combines Google's meeting software with interactive hardware and noise-cancellation capabilities.
Part of the Google Series One line, Desk 27 was designed in order to update conference call technology to meet demands for at-home work. It was shortlisted in the workplace design category for Dezeen Awards 2022.
Aruliden worked with Google Workspace and technology company Avocor to create the conferencing system that utilises Wi-Fi, an all-purpose touchscreen and sound cancelling technology.
Desk 27 rests on a tabletop and can also functions as a monitor and dock for laptops, while Board 65 – the other variation in the series – is standalone, like a whiteboard.
"We approached the design of Desk 27 and Board 65 by imagining what the future meeting room looks like, and how meetings could be optimized by a multi-functional hardware solution that facilitates an inclusive and comfortable conferencing experience," said Aruliden co-founder Johan Liden.
Desk 27 comes in two colours, charcoal and chalk. It has a five-megapixel camera and a 10-inch touchscreen controller with a layout familiar to those who already use Google's conferencing technology.
Aruliden said that having as few wires as possible was an important aspect of the design, and the system was designed with a power-over-ethernet cable that delivers an internet connection and power with the same input.
The system also has an integrated soundbar with dual four-microphone arrays. This hardware runs Google's TrueVoice sound system, which the company said uses AI to reduce background noise and clarify speech.
"This means distracting sounds, like snacking or typing on a keyboard are removed, but voices are crystal clear," said Aruliden.
The sound bar can process up to 44 different channels simultaneously, enabling large conference calls and options for closed captioning and headphone use have been included.
"Desk 27's sculptural shape makes it approachable, while its subtle surface texturing and matte finish allows it to blend into any environment," said Aruliden. "The tiltable desk stand also enables users to view the screen whether seated or standing."
Via the Jamboard application, the screen can also function as a whiteboard, with a small docking station for a digital stylus placed below the screen.
Aruliden also said that while the device was built to function best with Google Meet, any conferencing software could be used on the device.
According to the team, recycled materials were also used for the design. The polycarbonate-and-ABS housing use "post-consumer recycled content", said Aruliden, which added that fabric covers contain recycled polyester and nylon.
Aruliden was started in 2006 and is headquartered in New York City. Other products developed by the brand include s wearable "fitness coach" that tracks health metrics and doesn't have a screen to improve comfort.
The company has also designed large-scale projects, like a retail location for the womenswear brand Jonathan Simkhai in New York City.