Google is bringing Beam, its 3D video conferencing tech, to deployed service members

Google has teamed up with the United Service Organizations (USO) to assist deployed service members keep in contact with their households another way. As a part of a pilot program, the corporate is bringing Google Beam, its 3D video communication tech, to USO service facilities within the US and different international locations beginning in 2026.

Google means that Beam may also help army households who’re separated by many miles really feel like they’re in the identical room. Whereas members of the family can be in contact with deployed family members by means of group chats and video calls, chatting through Beam might assist them really feel nearer collectively, if the tech works in addition to promised.

We obtained our first have a look at Beam — then generally known as Challenge Starline — in 2021. The holographic teleconferencing system makes use of 3D imaging, spatial audio and adaptive lighting to make video chats extra immersive. Beam is primarily meant for enterprise shoppers (the first such device costs $25,000), however it’s fascinating to see Google exploring different functions for the tech.