As touch-based collaboration systems have declined in sales during COVID-19, BenQ — maker and marketer of the Google Jamboard — is reminding one of the only segments of the AV market who’s buying them right now (education) that there’s a dedicated Google device. BenQ and the Google Jamboard is part of the Google for Education schools hybrid classroom option program. And, for a limited time, the Jamboard collaboration board is available for 50% off list price.

Developed to create an interactive Google for Education experience from the Google Cloud/G Suite ecosystem, the Google Jamboard integrates digital whiteboard technology, Google Meet video conferencing, cloud connectivity and G Suite apps. The 55-inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) multitouch display delivers integrated access to Google Drive in any classroom.

Using Google Meet, teachers can launch a videoconference directly from the Jamboard as it has a built-in camera, microphone and speakers. All participants can collaborate on the digital whiteboard, and teachers can save the session as well as any notes written on the board to their Google Classroom.

With machine learning tools such as handwriting recognition, shape recognition and AutoDraw, staff and students can sketch ideas, drop images, add notes and pull assets directly from the web or Google Drive. The Jamboard features a surface with 16 points of simultaneous touch that is responsive. Users can move and re-size objects just as naturally as on a phone or tablet. Or they can use the included battery-free styluses and eraser that function without complicated pairing or setups.

Instructors can present information on slides and write notes on the whiteboard without switching between apps. Any created content is automatically saved to the Google Classroom. It eliminates that extra step for teachers and makes it accessible for students to study later.

As hybrid and remote learning becomes the new norm, the Google admin console gives them the access and tools to manage their Jamboards and other classroom resources throughout a building, within a district, or across a campus remotely from their workstation.

The Jamboard ships with a wall mount, or it can be mounted on an optional rolling stand for added flexibility.