Google's experimental Project Starline has evolved into Google Beam, a revolutionary enterprise-focused 3D video conferencing solution set to ship to select customers later this year. The technology promises to transform remote communication by creating lifelike interactions without requiring headsets or specialized glasses.
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| Announcement of the transition from Project Starline to Google Beam |
The Evolution from Project Starline to Google Beam
Google has officially rebranded its secretive Project Starline as Google Beam, marking a significant step toward commercialization after approximately four years of development. The technology, which Google has been refining since 2021, uses advanced hardware and AI to create what the company describes as a magic window experience. This transition from experimental project to named product signals Google's confidence in the technology's readiness for enterprise deployment, with the first units expected to ship to select customers in late 2025.
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| Demonstration of Google Beam's video conferencing capabilities at Google I/O 2025 |
How the Technology Works
Google Beam creates its immersive 3D effect through a sophisticated combination of hardware and AI-powered software. The system employs six strategically positioned cameras to capture multiple angles of participants. What's new in 2025 is an AI volumetric video model that processes these multiple video streams in real-time, generating a three-dimensional representation viewable at 60 frames per second. The display uses a lenticular film to refract light from a lightfield projection, creating a glasses-free 3D effect similar to what users might recognize from the Nintendo 3DS or Apple Vision Pro's external display. The technology also incorporates precise head tracking accurate to the millimeter, enhancing the sense of presence during calls.
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| Welcome display for Project Starline, showcasing the innovative video conferencing technology |
The User Experience
Demonstrations at Google I/O 2025 revealed that Beam delivers a remarkably natural communication experience. Users report that the technology eliminates much of the awkwardness typically associated with video calls. While participants remain aware they're not physically in the same room, the 3D effect is convincingly lifelike—objects held up during calls appear as though they could be reached for and grabbed. The system also supports natural eye contact and can recognize subtle facial expressions, creating a more authentic interaction than traditional video conferencing. Additionally, Beam will integrate real-time speech translation while preserving the speaker's voice, tone, and facial expressions for multilingual communication.
Enterprise Focus and Partnerships
Google has made it clear that Beam is exclusively targeted at enterprise customers rather than consumers. The company is collaborating with HP to manufacture the hardware, with the first devices scheduled to be showcased at next month's InfoComm conference. Several major organizations have already expressed interest, including Deloitte, Salesforce, Citadel, NEC, Hackensack Meridian Health, Duolingo, and Recruit. Google is also working with video conferencing leader Zoom to integrate Beam into existing enterprise communication ecosystems.
Limitations and Pricing Considerations
Despite its impressive capabilities, Google Beam currently has notable limitations. The most significant is that the technology currently only supports one-on-one meetings, which may limit its value proposition for enterprises looking to connect larger teams across locations. While Google hasn't disclosed pricing information, comparable technologies like Logitech's Project Ghost (a less advanced 2D system) cost between USD 15,000 and USD 20,000 per booth. Given Beam's more sophisticated technology, potential customers should expect a substantial investment, positioning it as a premium enterprise communication solution rather than a mainstream product.
Future Outlook
As Google Beam moves from demonstration to deployment, its impact on enterprise communication could be substantial. The technology represents a significant advancement in remote presence, potentially addressing the persistent challenges of virtual collaboration. While the current iteration has limitations and will likely carry a premium price tag, Beam demonstrates Google's commitment to pushing the boundaries of communication technology. As the first units reach customers later this year, the market's response will determine whether this approach to 3D video conferencing represents the future of remote work or remains a niche luxury for select organizations.