HP buys Poly, the corporate previously often known as Plantronics | Engadget

Plantronics’ (now Poly’s) lengthy unbiased streak is coming to an finish. Reuters reports HP is acquiring Poly in an all-cash deal price $3.3 billion together with debt. HP stated the acquisition would bolster its “hybrid work” choices, akin to headsets and videoconferencing {hardware}. The computing large did not say if Poly would nonetheless function as a definite model or retain its CEO (we have requested HP for remark), however the deal is predicted to shut by the tip of 2022.

Don’t anticipate this to result in HP-branded client headphones or earbuds. When Plantronics rebranded as Poly, the corporate was already transitioning from private audio to work-oriented merchandise like assembly room audio system and videoconferencing cameras. Only a handful of things (such because the Voyager headphone vary) are designed with residence use not less than partly in thoughts. As it stands, HP already targets on a regular basis customers with its gaming-focused HyperX model.

Whatever HP’s intentions, the buyout closes an essential chapter in audio historical past. Plantronics was one of many first corporations to provide Bluetooth headsets, and developed an early repute as a go-to model for hands-free calling. However, its makes an attempt at competing with client heavyweights like Apple, Bose and Sony by no means actually panned out. While Plantronics created well-made headphones and earbuds that generally undercut the competitors on worth, it by no means reached the extent of hype that helped its rivals succeed. The 2018 acquisition of Polycom and the following Poly rebrand was, in a way, an acknowledgment that Plantronics’ power was within the workplace slightly than at residence.

It’s additionally no secret that Poly had entertained consumers. In 2018, Plantronics had been in talks with Logitech a few potential deal. That fell by means of, but it surely was already clear the agency was open to a merger. The HP transfer may characterize a contented ending in that mild, even when Poly is dropping its independence within the course of.