Zoom Video Communications is rolling out a subscription-based Hardware as a Service (HaaS) program. For a flat monthly fee, subscribers get access to state-of-the-art hardware designed specifically for Zoom Phone and Zoom Rooms for video meetings and calls. Third-party manufacturers of the phone and meeting room devices include DTEN, Neat, Poly and Yealink. Available to customers in the U.S., Zoom HaaS offers scalable solutions at an affordable price.
“Strong communications mobilize your employees to stay engaged while reinforcing your established corporate culture, even in a remote work environment. There’s no reason to lose focus simply because your existing PBX system can’t support this workplace shift and business continuity,” said Zoom.
Benefits to Zoom Hardware as a Service
In Zoom’s July 7 announcement, the company explained the benefits to its new subscription service.
- Affordability: Zoom’s HaaS helps companies purchase needed hardware on a rental basis. This reduces upfront costs and helps companies more accurately budget for their future hardware needs.
- Scalability: With Zoom HaaS, companies can easily scale their hardware up or down depending on their needs. For example, if a company decides to allow its staff to work 100% remotely, they may need to scale up quickly. Without a significant initial outlay, Zoom makes it easy for companies to adjust to their evolving needs. When companies begin returning to work, they can rightsize their equipment to meet their needs.
- Upgrades: Subscribers can upgrade their equipment as often as every three years to stay current with the latest technology.
- Support: As part of the subscription offering, Zoom customers get access to Zoom support. Subscribers can also add professional and managed services to their subscription for easy installation and end-to-end management.
- Streamlined billing: Though the HaaS program is for hardware only, Zoom software subscribers can pay for both hardware and software with a single bill.
Pricing
Pricing for the Hardware as a Service program is based on the number, type and brand of device. For example, Zoom Phone hardware is available from Poly and Yealink with prices ranging from $5.99 per month per device up to $60 per month per device. Zoom Rooms start at $25 per month for the Neat Pad only and range up to $200 per month for DTEN on 55”.
Software subscriptions, which are available through a separate subscription, start with the free version which carries several limitations, and monthly subscription plans with vary in cost based on the number of hosts per account. For example, the Pro plan is $14.99 per month per host up to nine hosts per account. It includes all the basic features plus more participants, longer meeting duration times and other features.
Why This Is A Big Deal
During the third week of March, 25% of American adults surveyed said they used video calling or conference services to attend a work meeting during the coronavirus outbreak. As people continue to work from home during the pandemic, that percentage is likely to increase, making this a good time for Zoom to make a move.
Insider Take
At first glance, this seems to be like a good idea, and it is certainly a timely one. But maybe Zoom is just dressing up an old idea and calling it a subscription. Afterall, once upon a time, companies leased their phone equipment from product vendors who supported the products and helped change out old equipment for new. Isn’t this basically the same thing?
Regardless of how they created their HaaS idea, Zoom is attempting to address a perceived market need, and it is doing so in a way that is affordable for companies. It is also creating sustainability for the company once the need for video conferencing lessens in a post-COVID-19 world.
