Jabra announces new headsets, looks to the future

Stephen Withers
Thursday, 27 October 2011 14:20

Business IT - Technology

Headset specialist Jabra has announced a pair of entry-level professional wireless headsets. One is intended for use with conventional desk phones, the other with unified communications applications, softphones, and applications such as Skype.

The Jabra PRO 920 wireless headset works with "all leading desk phones" and uses DECT technology to avoid interference from other transmissions and provide a range of up to 120m. A noise-cancelling microphone reduces problems caused by noisy offices, and the earphone volume is automatically controlled to block sudden peaks and to ensure safe average sound levels.

The battery provides up to eight hours of talk time or 36 hours on standby, and charges in less than three hours. A half charge is achieved in 50 minutes.

The Jabra PRO 930 has a similar design and features, but has a USB port for connection to Windows-based PCs. There's a general purpose version that works with various softphones and UC software, plus a specific version for plug-and-play use with Lync 2010 and Office Communicator.

Australian prices have yet to be announced.

Mogens Elsberg, president and CEO of Jabra told iTWire that office headsets account for approximately two-thirds of the company's business, with mobile (Bluetooth) headsets making up the rest. Sales are growing at 15% year-on-year globally, and by over 30% in Australia, driven largely by the unified communications market.

"The last three feet is important" (ie, from the desk to the user's head) in order to get the most from the overall investment, said Mark Leigh, president of the company's Asia Pacific operations. A more comfortable headset is used more, making staff more productive.

What's ahead for headsets? See page 2.