Headsets designed for Microsoft Lync and Skype for Business.
What does “optimized for Microsoft Lync” mean? Devices that are Lync-optimized work seamlessly with Microsoft Lync applications. They can also take advantage of unique Lync-based features that other devices are not compatible with.
Lync-optimized solutions include phones, video conferencing systems and headsets. Manufacturers like Jabra and Plantronics build a number of Lync-optimized headsets. The headsets offer features like on-device call controls including call answer and end, volume adjustment, and microphone mute.
It’s important to choose a Lync-optimized headset for your Microsoft Lync softphone. The headsets make it easier to interact with the softphone. They also eliminate the need for a VoIP phone and other additional hardware. All you need is a Lync softphone and a Lync-optimized headset.
The update to Skype for Business
Microsoft Lync is no more. Microsoft has unveiled Skype for Business, which will replace Microsoft Lync 2013 in the April update. The April update for Microsoft Lync was released on April 14th.
Don’t worry! Lync-optimized headsets will still work with Skype for Business. The backbone and inner workings of Skype for Business are heavily based on Lync (if they even changed at all). The update means that the platform’s interface has changed. Skype is known for being very user-friendly and Microsoft’s aim with Skype for Business is to create a user-friendly UC platform with business-centric, Lync-based features.
What does “qualified for Lync” mean?
Just because a device isn’t Lync-optimized, doesn’t mean that it’s not compatible with Microsoft Lync or Skype for Business. A “qualified for Lync” device is compatible with Microsoft Lync, but does not work as seamlessly with the applications and functions of the platform. Qualified devices are Lync-compatible devices that may require additional software or accessories in order to function as a Lync-optimized device would.
A list of Lync-qualified devices via Microsoft: “ Phones and devices qualified for Lync”
If you are using a Microsoft Lync or Skype for Business softphone, we recommend a Lync-optimized device over a Lync-qualified device. The native controls on a Lync-optimized headset can greatly improve productivity.
A few recommendations
Choosing the right Lync-optimized headset for your Microsoft Lync or Skype for Business environment is like any decision… sometimes it’s a hassle. Which one should you choose? Here are a few of our recommendations for headsets for your Microsoft Lync or Skype for Business softphone.
The Plantronics Blackwire C710-M headset (monaural) and Plantronics Blackwire C720-M headset (binaural) are both optimized for Microsoft Lync. The headsets offer USB and Bluetooth connectivity to interact with your VoIP softphone and mobile device. Operate the headset as a wired or wireless device—your choice!
The Jabra BIZ 2400 MS Mono headset and Jabra BIZ 2400 MS Duo headset are also optimized for Microsoft Lync. Plug the headset into your computer’s USB port. You can wear the headset in three different ways; either in a headband, neckband or ear hook wearable style.
Curious about Skype for Business?
Here’s a fascinating video that tells the story:
If you want help deploying Skype for Business, either as a first-time user or to upgrade from Microsoft Lync, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
Unified communications platforms like Microsoft Lync and Skype for Business are bringing dispersed workforces together like never before. Lync-optimized headsets are just a small part of the bigger picture. Lync’s VoIP softphone makes it unnecessary to own a desk phone, and the Lync-optimized headsets greatly improve the entire experience.