Boost Hybrid Work Collaboration with Google Workspace
September 30, 2024
- 19 min read
In the world of hybrid work, seamless virtual collaboration is key to keeping teams connected. Whether you're meeting in person or remotely through platforms like Google Workspace, every voice should be heard, and every face should be seen—just as clearly as if everyone were in the same room. However, without the right audio and video tools, hybrid meetings can feel disjointed and leave some participants on the sidelines.
That’s why we’re all about professional-grade headsets, speakerphones, and video conferencing gear at Simply Headsets. We know that with the right tools, hybrid meetings can go from “just okay” to "fully engaged", as if everyone’s in the same room. Whether you're working from the office, your kitchen table, or even a beach in Belize, having the right equipment makes all the difference.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to optimise your hybrid setup with headsets and video solutions that actually work for your team, especially when using Google Workspace. Ready to transform your virtual meetings?
Post Contents [hide]
- Why Google-Certified Devices Matter for Hybrid Work
- Key Features of Professional Audio and Video for Hybrid Teams
- Matching Devices to Workstyles and Workspaces
- Headsets for Clear Communication
- Video Conferencing Solutions for Seamless Meetings
- Speakerphones for Group Collaboration
- Enhancing Hybrid Work with the Right Tools
Why Google-Certified Devices Matter for Hybrid Work
In hybrid work, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing up well. Whether you're using Google Meet or Google Voice, having the right audio and video devices makes a huge difference in how you look, sound, and interact during virtual meetings. Google-certified devices ensure that your team experiences clear audio, sharp video, and smooth communication, even across different locations.
What makes Google-certified gear special? These devices have been lab-tested to meet Google’s high standards for video quality (think noise reduction, frame rate, and image detail) and audio clarity. They’re built to handle the everyday demands of remote and in-office work, meaning fewer dropped calls, clearer communication, and overall smoother meetings. Plus, they’re optimised to work seamlessly with Google Workspace, so you won’t run into those annoying tech hiccups that disrupt the flow of your meetings.
By pairing Google-certified devices with high-quality headsets and video conferencing gear, you can ensure every participant is heard, seen, and able to contribute as if they were sitting right next to you—no matter where they’re dialling in from.
Key Features of Professional Audio and Video for Hybrid Teams
When it comes to hybrid work, not all audio and video tools are built the same. Clear communication and engagement require investing in professional-grade equipment that can handle the demands of today’s ever-changing work environments. Here’s what to keep in mind when setting up your hybrid workspace.
Certified Audio and Video: Elevating Meeting Quality
Using professional-grade audio devices, especially those certified for Google Workspace, can make a huge difference in your virtual meetings. Features like noise cancellation help block out unwanted background sounds, while dual microphones ensure your voice is heard clearly. On the video side, high-resolution cameras capture sharp, detailed images, even in less-than-ideal lighting.
Opting for Google-certified headsets and video gear guarantees compatibility and reliability, making your meetings run more smoothly—whether you're working remotely or in the office. Tools like the Poly Voyager 4300 Series and EPOS Impact 1000 offer the perfect mix of comfort, sound quality, and dependability, so every conversation comes through loud and clear.
Bridging IT and Employee Needs
A seamless hybrid setup works best when it meets the needs of both IT teams and employees. IT departments appreciate devices that are easy to install and manage, while employees want tech that’s simple to use, no matter where they are. Professional audio and video solutions help with both, thanks to features like plug-and-play setup, automatic updates, and smooth integration with platforms like Google Meet and Zoom.
For example, the Poly Studio R30 video camera and EPOS Expand 40 speakerphone are designed to minimise the hassle of setup while delivering top-notch meeting quality, making life easier for both IT teams and the people using the tools.
Matching Devices to Workstyles and Workspaces
Every hybrid worker has their own unique way of getting things done. Some need to collaborate in large meeting rooms, while others might be more focused in a quiet home office. Matching the right devices to the workstyles and workspaces of your team is crucial to ensuring they stay productive, engaged, and comfortable in any environment.
The Role of Audio in Various Environments
Working in a hybrid setup comes with its challenges, and one of the biggest is making sure your voice is heard loud and clear—no matter where you are. Whether you're in a cozy home office or dealing with the noise of a shared workspace, having the right audio gear can make all the difference when it comes to staying focused and engaged.
If you're someone who switches between working from home, the office, or even a café, headsets like the EPOS Impact 800 and Poly Voyager Focus 2 are designed to keep background noise out and your attention where it matters. These headsets not only block distractions but also ensure your voice comes through clearly during Google Meet calls. No more worrying about being heard over the clatter of a café or the hum of a busy office.
And when you're in the office or collaborating with your team on Google Meet, speakerphones like the Poly Sync 20 or EPOS Expand 40 step up. They offer top-notch sound quality, making sure everyone in the room—and beyond—is heard equally well. These devices are great for team meetings or client calls, capturing every voice so the conversation flows seamlessly, no matter where people are joining from.
Video Solutions for Different Room Sizes
Meeting spaces come in all shapes and sizes, so why shouldn’t your video setup adapt too? Whether you're jumping on a Google Meet call from your home office or leading a big team meeting in a conference room, the right video equipment is key to keeping things professional and seamless.
For smaller spaces or personal work areas, compact cameras like the Poly Studio P5 are a great fit. These small yet powerful cameras deliver excellent video quality in a portable package, making them perfect for remote workers who want to look sharp on virtual meetings. Whether you're at your desk or switching between locations, the Poly Studio P5 makes sure you always look your best, with features like automatic low-light adjustment and HD resolution.
When it comes to medium or large meeting rooms, the Poly Studio R30 and Poly Studio are built to handle more complex setups. These video bars feature smart tracking technology that automatically zooms in on the person speaking, making sure everyone stays visible and engaged. This is especially useful for hybrid teams on Google Meet, where it's important for remote participants to see and hear everyone clearly. With wide-angle views and speaker tracking, these solutions ensure that no one gets left out, even in bigger spaces.
Whether it’s a one-on-one virtual chat or a large team meeting on Google Meet, having the right video tools helps keep your team connected, engaged, and productive, no matter where they are.
Headsets for Clear Communication
Whether your team is handling calls from a bustling office or working quietly from home, our headsets ensure crystal-clear audio on both sides of the conversation. The Poly Voyager 4300 Series and EPOS Impact 1000 Series are perfect for hybrid workers, offering a comfortable fit for all-day use and advanced noise-cancelling features to block out background noise.
For those needing even more focus, the Poly Voyager Focus 2 and EPOS Impact 800 take it up a notch with enhanced Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), making even the most disruptive noises disappear—so you can stay focused, no matter where you are.
Poly Voyager 4300 Series Bluetooth Headset
For hybrid professionals who need flexibility, the Poly Voyager 4300 Series delivers excellent value as an entry-level Bluetooth headset. Designed with hybrid work in mind, it easily connects to both your PC/Mac via a USB dongle and your mobile devices with Bluetooth. Plus, if you add the Voyager Office Base, you can even use it with your desk phone, making it ideal for switching between home and office setups.
With its reliable performance and comfortable fit, this headset is a top pick for professionals who want high-quality sound without the premium price tag.
From:
$204
inc GST
- Works With - PC/MAC + Mobile
- Acoustic Fence microphone
- Adaptable for use with traditional desk phone
- Adaptive Bluetooth for dense usage offices
Why You’ll Love It:
- Bluetooth multitasking – Move freely and stay productive while on or waiting for calls.
- Acoustic Fence technology – Eliminates background noise, ensuring only your voice is heard.
- Comfortable design – Wide padded headband and soft leatherette ear cushions for all-day wear.
- Flexible microphone placement – Wear the mic and earcup on either side for convenience.
- Easy charging while in use – Plug it into your laptop to charge without interrupting usage.
- Expandable with desk phone compatibility – Add the Voyager Office Base to use it with a desk phone.
Poly Voyager Focus 2 Bluetooth Headset
The Poly Voyager Focus 2 is packed with powerful noise-cancelling features, perfect for professionals working in noisy environments. Its Advanced Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) earcups block out distractions, while the Acoustic Fence technology in the microphone ensures your voice comes through clearly, no matter how busy your surroundings are.
Effortlessly switch between your PC or Mac (via USB dongle) and your mobile phone with Bluetooth. And if you need to use a desk phone, just add the Voyager Office Base—making it a great choice for hybrid work setups.
From:
$264
inc GST
- Works With - PC/MAC + Mobile
- Advanced Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling earcups
- Acoustic Fence microphone
- Adaptable for use with traditional desk phone
Why You’ll Love It:
- Advanced Hybrid ANC with three levels, allowing you to control how much background noise to block.
- Acoustic Fence microphone meets Microsoft’s Open Office certification, filtering out environmental noise.
- Intuitive features—lift the microphone to mute, and automatically answer calls by picking up the headset.
- All-day comfort—a hammock-style headband reduces pressure, and ultra-soft ear cushions provide a comfortable fit.
- Up to 16 hours of talk time with ANC on and up to 40 hours for listening without ANC.
- Multitask with ease—connect to two devices simultaneously and switch between them effortlessly.
EPOS Impact 1000 Series Bluetooth Headset
The EPOS Impact 1000 series is an exceptional Bluetooth headset, perfect for open office environments. With advanced noise-cancelling and exceptional sound quality, it keeps your calls and music crystal clear while reducing background distractions.
Designed for multitasking, it can connect to up to three Bluetooth devices at once—so you can easily switch between your phone, tablet, and laptop. The series includes the stereo Impact 1060 and the mono Impact 1030, with options that are MS Teams certified. For added convenience, the 1061 stereo variant also offers an optional charging stand.
From:
$318
inc GST
- Works With PC/Mac + Mobile
- Connect to 3 devices concurrently
- Outstanding Sound Quality
- Ultra Noise Cancelling Microphone
- Intuitive to use
Why You’ll Love It:
- Industry-leading noise-cancelling microphone—One of the best noise cancelling microphones we've tested!
- Triple Bluetooth connectivity—Connect up to three devices at once, a standout feature among Bluetooth headsets.
- EPOS BrainAdapt™ technology—Designed to reduce brain fatigue, keeping you focused and productive throughout the day.
- Super Wideband audio—Delivers superior voice clarity and rich, immersive sound quality for calls, meetings, and multimedia.
- Comfort-focused design—Lightweight with breathable ear cushions and headband padding for all-day comfort.
- 360-degree busy light—Ensures colleagues know when you're on a call and shouldn’t be disturbed.
- Cool charging stand (1061 variant)—Easily charge your headset without fiddling with USB connections.
EPOS Impact 800 Series Bluetooth Headset
The EPOS Impact 800 series is a premium corded stereo headset designed for professionals who need top-notch sound quality from both the microphone and earcups. Perfect for modern office environments, the series includes the Impact 860 and the Microsoft Teams-certified Impact 860T, ensuring crystal-clear communication no matter where you are.
With EPOS BrainAdapt™ technology, this headset helps you multitask, react faster, and stay focused throughout your workday. It’s also designed for versatility, working seamlessly with PCs and softphones via USB-A and USB-C, making it a future-proof choice for any setup.
From:
$189
inc GST
- WORKS WITH - USB devices
- Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling
- Outstanding noise cancelling microphone
- USB-C with USB-A adapter included
- All day comfort
Why You’ll Love It:
- Industry-leading voice pickup with EPOS AI™ for crystal-clear communication, even in noisy environments.
- Comfort-first design with soft, breathable cushions and headband padding for all-day wear.
- Super wideband audio delivers exceptional stereo sound quality for both calls and music.
- Intuitive mic controls—lift the mic to mute with ease.
- USB-C and USB-A connections included, making it adaptable to various setups and ensuring future compatibility.
- Perfect for dictation—achieved 100% accuracy in quiet offices and 98.77% in noisy environments (Viva Voce Speech Recognition Solution).
- Convenient carry pouch—ideal for professionals on the go.
EPOS Impact 700 Series Bluetooth Headset
For professionals looking for both style and substance, the EPOS Impact 700 series delivers premium audio with an ergonomic design. This corded headset is designed for professionals who need flexibility paired with superior sound quality. Available in both mono and stereo configurations, this series delivers exceptional performance in a variety of work environments, from quiet offices to bustling open-plan spaces.
From:
$218
inc GST
- WORKS WITH - USB devices
- USB-C & USB-A compatible
- Noise-cancelling mics
- Comfortable leatherette pads
- Mono/Stereo options
Why You’ll Love It:
- USB-C and USB-A connectivity—Supports a wide range of devices, from older computers to modern smartphones and tablets.
- EPOS AI-driven noise-cancelling technology—Filters out background noise to ensure clear audio during calls, no matter where you are.
- Mono or stereo options—Choose between single-sided or double-sided headsets to match your listening preferences and work needs.
Video Conferencing Solutions for Seamless Meetings
To keep hybrid meetings running smoothly, video quality needs to be just as good as audio. The Poly Studio P5 is perfect for individual use, providing sharp, high-definition video to make sure you’re always seen clearly on camera. For larger meetings, the Poly Studio R30 and Poly Studio offer smart camera technology that follows the speaker, so everyone in the room can be seen and heard equally, creating a more immersive and engaging experience for remote participants.
Poly Studio P5 Video Camera
When you're working remotely, video quality can make or break a meeting. The Poly Studio P5 is designed for professionals who need a reliable, high-quality webcam to look their best on video calls, whether at home, in the office, or on the go. With premium optics and automatic low-light compensation, it ensures a clear, professional image even in suboptimal lighting conditions. Its built-in directional microphone focuses on your voice, minimising background noise, and the integrated privacy shutter adds an extra layer of security.
7%
Off
MSRP: $164
$152
inc GST
Save: $12
- MS Teams & Zoom Certified
- Integrated Privacy Shutter
- Spare USB Port for BT Dongle
- Flexible Mounting Options
Why You’ll Love It:
- Exceptional camera optics—Delivers professional-quality video with vibrant colours and sharp clarity.
- Automatic low-light compensation—Ensures you’re clearly visible even in dimly lit environments.
- Built-in directional microphone—Focuses on your voice, cutting out background noise.
- Integrated privacy shutter—Gives you control over when the camera is on, enhancing security.
- USB connection for wireless headset adapter—Frees up USB ports, simplifying your setup.
Poly Studio R30 Video Bar
The Poly Studio R30 is a cutting-edge solution for small conference rooms, offering exceptional 4K video, intelligent camera framing, and crystal-clear audio. It’s designed to elevate your video conferencing experience with features like Poly DirectorAI, ensuring that every participant is seen and heard clearly. With its plug-and-play setup, the Studio R30 is as easy to install as it is powerful.
22%
Off
MSRP: $1065
$834
inc GST
Save: $231
- Room-wide crystal-clear video
- Powerful speaker for small spaces
- Poly DirectorAI smart camera technology
- Compatible with all PC/Mac video apps
Why You’ll Love It:
- 4K video quality with a 120-degree field of view—Ensures everyone in the room is captured in stunning detail.
- Poly DirectorAI smart camera framing—Automatically frames speakers and follows presenters for dynamic, engaging video meetings.
- Advanced noise reduction—Poly Acoustic Clarity technology with multi-microphone arrays ensures clear voice pickup, blocking background noise and distractions.
- Simple plug-and-play setup—Requires only two cords (USB and power) for fast, hassle-free installation.
- Compatibility with leading video apps—Works seamlessly with Zoom Room, Microsoft Teams, and other popular conferencing platforms.
Poly Studio Video Bar
For businesses looking for an easy-to-install video conferencing solution, the Poly Studio video bar offers exceptional value and performance for small to mid-sized meeting rooms, delivering crystal-clear video and room-filling sound. Designed for huddle spaces but effective in larger rooms as well, this all-in-one video conferencing solution ensures seamless communication with automatic framing, noise cancellation, and advanced audio technologies.
42%
Off
MSRP: $1804
$1,054
inc GST
Save: $750
Buy Now
Why You’ll Love It:
- Ultra-wide 120° field of view—Captures everyone in the room, ensuring no participant is left out.
- 4K resolution with 5x digital zoom—Delivers crisp, lifelike video, even when zoomed in on active speakers.
- Group framing & speaker tracking—Automatically adjusts the camera to frame participants or zoom in on speakers.
- Poly NoiseBlock and Acoustic Fence technologies—Block out unwanted noise, ensuring clear audio during calls.
- Certified for MS Teams and Zoom—Fully compatible with major platforms like Google Meet, Webex, and more.
- Easy setup with USB plug-and-play—Comes with a 5m USB cable for effortless connection to PCs or laptops.
- Remote control included—Allows for easy adjustments, including camera presets, mute, and volume control.
Speakerphones for Group Collaboration
In group settings, speakerphones ensure that everyone has a voice. Whether you’re hosting a brainstorming session in a small meeting room or dialling into a larger conference, our range of speakerphones will make sure all participants are heard clearly. The Poly Sync 20 and Poly Sync 40 are great for smaller spaces, while the EPOS Expand 30 and EPOS Expand 40 are designed to handle larger rooms, offering powerful sound and multi-microphone arrays to capture every word.
Poly Sync 20 Speakerphone
The Poly Sync 20 is a stylish, portable speakerphone designed for professionals on the go. It connects easily to a PC or laptop via USB-C or to mobile devices via Bluetooth, making it an ideal solution for mobile calls and video conferences. This version is certified for Zoom and offers exceptional audio quality, ensuring you’re heard clearly in every call.
24%
Off
MSRP: $286
$218
inc GST
Save: $68
Buy Now
Why You’ll Love It:
- Multi-microphone steerable array—Focuses on your voice while reducing echo and background noise for crystal-clear calls.
- Zoom certified—Optimised for seamless use with Zoom, though compatible with other conferencing platforms, including Microsoft Teams.
- Portable design—Compact size (9.5 x 18cm) and includes a carry case, perfect for professionals splitting their time between home, office, and travel.
- Long battery life—Up to 20 hours of talk time, and it can also charge your mobile device.
- Customisable function button—Choose from options like play/pause, redial, or hold/resume to suit your workflow.
- Clear status light—Easily see call status from a distance.
Poly Sync 40 Speakerphone
The Poly Sync 40 is a powerful speakerphone designed for small meeting spaces, such as huddle rooms for 3-4 people. It connects easily via USB-A to a PC or laptop, or wirelessly via Bluetooth to a mobile device, offering flexible connectivity options. With the ability to daisy chain two units together, it’s perfect for larger meetings or extended rooms, ensuring everyone is heard loud and clear. This version is certified for Microsoft Teams, featuring a dedicated Teams button, and works seamlessly with other conferencing platforms.
24%
Off
MSRP: $505
$384
inc GST
Save: $121
Buy Now
Why You’ll Love It:
- Multi-microphone steerable array—Captures voices while reducing background noise, ensuring crystal-clear audio.
- Full duplex audio—No interruptions, allowing natural conversations where multiple people can speak at once.
- Microsoft Teams certified—Comes with a dedicated Teams button, making it easy to launch and manage Teams meetings.
- Daisy chaining—Link two Sync 40 units via Bluetooth for larger meeting spaces or extended coverage.
- Long battery life—Up to 30 hours of talk time, with the ability to charge your mobile device directly from the speakerphone.
- Bright status lights—Visible from all sides so everyone in the room knows the status of the call.
- Programmable function button—Customise it to your most-used function, such as play/pause, redial, or hold/resume.
EPOS Expand 30 Speakerphone
For those in need of a compact yet powerful speakerphone, the EPOS Expand 30 offers premium sound quality in a portable design. It's a portable, wireless speakerphone perfect for personal conferencing or meetings of up to 8 people. Offering both Bluetooth® and USB-C connectivity, it’s flexible enough for use on the go or as part of a permanent conference room setup. Equipped with dual noise and echo-cancelling microphones and an ultra-low distortion speaker, it ensures clear, natural conversations even in challenging environments.
MSRP: $295
$279
inc GST
Save: $16
Buy Now
Why You’ll Love It:
- Bluetooth® and USB-C connectivity—Seamless, plug-and-play connections with mobile devices, tablets, or PCs.
- Microsoft Teams certified—One-touch access to Teams functions via a dedicated button.
- Dual noise and echo-cancelling microphones—Ensures voices are heard clearly without interference from background noise.
- Ultra-low distortion speaker—Provides clear voice reproduction for a natural conversational flow.
- Multi-device connectivity—Connect up to three devices simultaneously for versatile conferencing.
- Compact and portable—Lightweight design with convenient cable winding and safe dongle storage for easy transport.
EPOS Expand 40 Speakerphone
The EPOS Expand 40 is a versatile, portable speakerphone designed for small to medium-sized meeting rooms, accommodating up to 8 people. Whether you need a quick, on-the-go conference call or a permanent conferencing solution, this speakerphone delivers clear and natural conversations with its advanced Bluetooth® and USB-C connectivity. It’s optimised for Unified Communications (UC) platforms, making it ideal for use with applications like Google Meet, Zoom, and others.
17%
Off
MSRP: $485
$402
inc GST
Save: $83
Buy Now
Why You’ll Love It:
- Three beamforming microphones—Isolate voices and reduce reverb and ambient noise for clear, dynamic audio.
- Ultra-low distortion speaker—Industry-leading duplex performance ensures seamless conversation flow and enhanced music playback.
- Bluetooth® and USB-C connectivity—Provides flexible options for connecting to PCs, tablets, or mobile devices.
- UC optimised—Certified for leading UC platforms, offering broad compatibility with most conferencing software.
- Portable and durable—Comes with a soft carry pouch for safe storage while on the move.
Enhancing Hybrid Work with the Right Tools
In today’s hybrid work environment, staying connected and maintaining clear communication is essential. From headsets that deliver crystal-clear sound to speakerphones that ensure every participant is heard, the right tools can transform your workday. Whether you’re collaborating in a bustling office, a quiet home setup, or anywhere in between, investing in high-quality audio and video equipment like the Poly Voyager 4300 or the EPOS Impact 1000 ensures you can work seamlessly and productively.
By choosing the right devices for your workstyle and environment, you not only improve communication but also create a more professional and efficient workspace. At Simply Headsets, we offer a wide range of products designed to enhance your hybrid work experience. Ready to take your virtual meetings to the next level? Explore our selection of headsets and video conferencing solutions or call us today on 1300 889 728 to find the perfect fit for your needs.