Highfive - Detailed Review
Communication Tools
Highfive - Product Overview
Highfive Overview
Highfive, now integrated into Dialpad Meetings, was a cloud-based video conferencing platform that enabled seamless communication for businesses of all sizes. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:
Primary Function
Highfive was designed to transform any meeting room, home office, or huddle room into a smart meeting space. It provided high-quality, browser-based HD video conferencing services that required no IT intervention, pin codes, or pass codes, making it easy for users to connect instantly from any device and location.
Target Audience
Highfive catered to a wide range of businesses, from small to large enterprises, across various industries. Its user base included IT, engineering, and customer success teams, as well as organizations needing flexible remote work solutions. It was particularly useful for scenarios such as e-learning, virtual training, telemedicine, and remote contact centers.
Key Features
One-Touch Meetings
Highfive allowed users to join meetings with a single click, eliminating the need for complicated setup or IT support.
Browser-Based
The platform utilized open-source WebRTC technology to provide HD-quality video conferencing directly through web browsers, ensuring compatibility across different devices.
Plug-and-Play Functionality
Highfive offered easy-to-use, plug-and-play functionality that integrated seamlessly with existing hardware and SIP-enabled conferencing providers.
All-in-One Room Solution
When integrated into Dialpad Meetings, it provided an all-in-one room solution with features like easy click-to-join meetings and the ability to host and join meetings from any desktop or mobile browser.
AI-Powered Collaboration
With the integration into Dialpad, Highfive users benefited from built-in AI capabilities that could take notes and action items during meetings.
Highfive’s technology and features were aimed at enhancing business communication and collaboration, especially in the context of remote and hybrid work environments.
Highfive - User Interface and Experience
The User Interface and Experience of HighFive
Ease of Use
HighFive is known for its simplicity and ease of setup. Users have reported that the installation process is quick, often taking less than 10 minutes, and can be operated from both Windows and Mac systems. The interface is user-friendly, allowing users to easily start calls and use the app on either mobile devices or computers. This flexibility is appreciated, as users can mix and match how they connect to meetings without needing to use the dedicated HighFive unit.Screen Sharing and Video Quality
HighFive offers robust screen sharing options, which are highly valued by users. This feature enables seamless sharing of content with other participants, making remote meetings more effective. However, some users have noted occasional issues with screen sharing lag and video quality, particularly when the internet signal is weak.Interoperability
One of the standout features of HighFive is its interoperability. The Highfive Meeting Connector allows users to connect to third-party SIP-enabled video conferencing platforms such as BlueJeans, Cisco Webex, and Zoom. This feature eliminates the need to switch between different meeting platforms, enhancing the overall user experience.Accessibility and Licensing
HighFive promotes accessibility by offering unlimited user licenses for its desktop and mobile app users. This means any user within a company can utilize the meeting services without additional costs, which is particularly beneficial for large enterprises and budget-conscious organizations.User Experience
Overall, users appreciate the simplicity and ease of use of HighFive. The system integrates well with calendar systems, allowing users to receive reminders and easily share meeting links. However, some users have reported occasional software restarts and signal issues that can affect video quality during meetings.Summary
In summary, HighFive’s user interface is designed to be straightforward and accessible, with a strong focus on ease of use and interoperability. While there are some minor issues with lag and signal stability, the overall user experience is generally positive. Highfive - Key Features and Functionality
Overview of AI-Driven Features of Highfive
To provide a comprehensive overview of the AI-driven features of Highfive, we need to rely on integrations and tools that enhance its capabilities, since the direct Highfive website does not detail its AI-specific features extensively. Here are the key features and functionalities that can be achieved through integrations with AI-driven tools:Integration with Avoma
Highfive can be integrated with Avoma, an AI platform that enhances meeting management and analysis.Key Features of Avoma Integration
Integration with Tray Platform
While Highfive itself does not have a pre-built AI connector, the Tray platform allows for integration using universal connectivity options.Custom Integration Features
Comparison with Dialpad Ai
Although Highfive does not have native AI features like Dialpad Ai, the integrations mentioned above can provide similar functionalities.Potential Functionalities
Benefits of AI Integration
Highfive - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
Highfive is known for its ease of use and seamless integration into various environments. Here are some key performance aspects:Video and Audio Quality
Highfive devices are equipped with a wide-angle HD camera and four embedded microphones, along with an audio DSP, which provides exceptional audio quality. This setup is ideal for small conference rooms and ensures clear video and audio during meetings.Ease of Use
Highfive allows users to set up and launch calls via their mobile phone or the web, using wireless proximity detection. This makes it user-friendly and convenient for both in-room and remote participants.Integration
Highfive integrates with Outlook and Google Calendar, making it easy to schedule and manage meetings. However, it lacks interoperability with industry-standard video systems or with Lync.Service Plans
Highfive offers two service plans: a free plan with unlimited video calls and a $10/month PRO plan that adds features like unlimited phone minutes, custom branding, and a lobby or waiting room.Accuracy and Reliability
While Highfive is praised for its video and audio quality, there are a few areas to consider regarding accuracy and reliability:Technical Reliability
The system requires a stable network connection and power to function. As long as these conditions are met, Highfive generally provides reliable service. However, the lack of a hand-held remote might be a minor inconvenience for some users.User Experience
The user interface is intuitive, and the ability to join meetings via a URL or mobile phone enhances the overall user experience. This simplicity helps in reducing errors and miscommunications during meetings.Limitations or Areas for Improvement
Interoperability
One significant limitation is the lack of interoperability with other industry-standard video conferencing systems. This could be a barrier for organizations already invested in other platforms.Distribution and Support
Highfive sells directly, bypassing traditional reseller channels. While this can be beneficial in terms of cost and simplicity, it may limit the availability of on-site support or local resellers for some users.Additional Features
While the PRO plan adds several useful features, some users might find the basic plan lacking in certain functionalities, such as custom branding or single sign-on, which are only available in the paid plan. In summary, Highfive performs well in terms of video and audio quality, ease of use, and integration with popular calendar systems. However, it has limitations in interoperability and may require users to adapt to its direct sales model. For accurate and reliable communication, Highfive is a solid choice, especially for small to medium-sized conference rooms, but users should be aware of its specific features and limitations. Highfive - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Plans
HighFive offers three main pricing plans, each tailored to different business needs:Essential Plan
- Cost: $99 per month per room (paid annually)
- Features: Unlimited video conferencing, unlimited meetings and hosts, and standard features suitable for basic communication needs.
Standard Plan
- Cost: $149 per month per room (paid annually)
- Features: Includes all the features from the Essential Plan, with additional capabilities that may include enhanced meeting management and integration with other business systems.
Professional Plan
- Cost: $199 per month per room (paid annually)
- Features: This plan includes all the features from the Standard Plan, along with more advanced functionalities such as improved screen sharing, better integration options, and possibly more comprehensive support.
Free Trial
HighFive does offer a free trial, allowing potential users to test the software before committing to a paid plan. This trial period can help users assess whether the features and performance of HighFive meet their business requirements.Additional Notes
- The pricing is based on a per-room model, which means the cost is calculated per conference room rather than per user.
- HighFive integrates with various business systems and applications, which can be beneficial for organizations looking for seamless integration with their existing tools.
Highfive - Integration and Compatibility
Integration and Compatibility of Highfive with Dialpad Meetings
Platform and Device Compatibility
Highfive, now part of Dialpad Meetings, is designed to be highly compatible across various platforms and devices. It supports Windows, Mac OS, and iOS devices, ensuring that users can connect from different operating systems.
- For Windows, it supports versions 7, 8, 8.1, and 10 or later.
- For Mac OS, it supports versions 10.8, 10.9, 10.10, 10.11, or later.
- For iOS, it supports iPhone and iPad apps on iOS 8, 9, or later.
Integration with Other Tools
Dialpad Meetings, which includes the best features of Highfive, integrates seamlessly with several popular business applications. Here are a few examples:
- Google Ecosystem: Dialpad integrates well with Google tools such as Gmail, allowing users to make click-to-call actions directly from their emails and access relevant information like upcoming events.
- CRM Systems: It integrates with CRM platforms like Salesforce and Zendesk, enabling smooth management of customer relationships and providing AI-driven insights to customer service representatives.
- Microsoft Teams: Although Highfive initially did not interoperate with Microsoft Teams due to Teams’ WebRTC-based architecture, the integration capabilities of Dialpad may address this in the future. However, as of now, there is no direct interoperability mentioned.
Conference Room and Hardware Compatibility
Highfive’s technology, now part of Dialpad Meetings, is particularly strong in conference room settings. It offers an all-in-one room solution integrated with Poly, providing plug-and-play functionality that works seamlessly with existing hardware and SIP-enabled conferencing providers like BlueJeans, Zoom, and Cisco.
- The Highfive device, which is now part of Dialpad Meetings, includes a built-in CPU, and users only need to plug in power, ethernet, and HDMI to get started. It features a wide-angle HD video camera and an integrated microphone array with noise and echo cancellation.
AI-Driven Features
Dialpad Meetings, incorporating Highfive’s technology, leverages AI to enhance collaboration. It includes features like real-time transcription, facial recognition, translation, and voice analytics. Additionally, the AI can take notes and action items during meetings, making the collaboration process more efficient.
Conclusion
In summary, Highfive’s integration into Dialpad Meetings ensures broad compatibility across different devices and platforms, while also offering seamless integration with various business tools and advanced AI-driven features to enhance meeting experiences.
Highfive - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
Highfive, through Dialpad, offers several avenues for customer support:
Phone Support
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for Pro and Enterprise customers. This ensures that users can get immediate help with any technical issues or questions they might have.
Live Chat Support
A chat button is available on every page of the Dialpad website, allowing users to quickly connect with support team members for any technical queries.
Help Center
The Dialpad Help Center is a detailed online resource that includes helpful guides, support resources for both users and administrators, and thorough FAQs. This is a go-to place for finding answers to common questions, such as porting old business numbers or accessing call analytics.
Additional Resources
Online Guides and FAQs
The Help Center provides extensive documentation and FAQs that cover a wide range of topics related to using Highfive and other Dialpad products.
Interactive Tours
Users can take a self-guided interactive tour to familiarize themselves with the app and its features.
Training and Support Resources
While specific training resources for Highfive might not be explicitly outlined, the broader Dialpad support includes expert-led training sessions and support resources that can help users get the most out of their communication tools.
These resources ensure that users have multiple ways to get the help they need, whether it’s through immediate phone or chat support or by finding answers independently through the Help Center.
Highfive - Pros and Cons
Advantages and Disadvantages of Highfive
Pros
- Ease of Setup and Use: Highfive is known for its simplicity in setup, requiring no professional skills. The system, which includes a camera and speakers, connects easily to a TV, providing a large screen for clear visibility.
- High-Quality Video and Audio: Highfive stands out with extremely low latency on both video and audio, making it ideal for meaningful communication. The Dolby audio device in the Pro package is particularly praised for its excellent sound quality.
- Integration and Features: Highfive integrates well with platforms like Slack, making it easy to invite new participants quickly. It also offers a “move meeting to TV” feature, allowing you to turn off your laptop while the meeting continues. The screen sharing option, including the ability to share a specific window, is another useful feature.
- Customer Support: Users have reported solid customer support with good response times and helpful answers to detailed questions.
Cons
- Internet Dependency: Highfive requires fast internet to function smoothly, which can be a problem if any participant has slow internet, leading to irritations and disruptions.
- Cost: Many users find the monthly price of Highfive to be too high, despite the good quality it offers. This can be a significant drawback for those on a budget.
- Technical Issues: Users have reported several technical issues, such as cold starts taking too long, screen sharing being pixelated and having low FPS, and meetings getting interrupted without reason. There are also frequent audio feedback issues on some computers.
- User Interface and Controls: The UI is described as buggy and alpha-grade, with no way to start a room-to-room conference without a computer or phone at each end. Additionally, there are no conference controls for locking meetings or strict host controls.
- Setup and Connection Issues: While the setup is generally easy, some users still encounter troubles. There is also an issue with the room system displaying a super zoomed-out view, which can make participants feel disconnected.
Conclusion
Overall, Highfive offers a high-quality video conferencing experience with ease of use and good integration features, but it comes with significant costs and some technical and usability issues.
Highfive - Comparison with Competitors
Unique Features of Highfive
Highfive, powered by Dolby Voice, offers a comprehensive video conferencing solution that includes:- Cloud Video Conferencing: Highfive allows for seamless collaboration across any device, making it easy for employees to join meetings with custom URLs and integrations with tools like Slack, Outlook, and Google Calendar.
- Meeting Room Hardware: Highfive provides exceptional HD video and audio, including 360-degree audio capture and noise-cancelling technology, enhancing the meeting experience.
- Screen Sharing and Wireless Projection: Users can share screens and project wirelessly to projectors and TVs, making presentations smooth and efficient.
- Domain-Based Security: Highfive ensures security with no need for pin codes or passwords, using domain-based security instead.
- Industry-Leading Audio: With Dolby Voice, Highfive offers superior audio quality, including background-noise management and spatial audio separation.
Potential Alternatives
Dialpad
Dialpad is another strong contender in the communication tools category, offering robust VoIP and video calling, integrated messaging, and AI-powered analytics. However, it may not be the best fit for businesses needing stronger support across multiple channels like chat and email. Unlike Highfive, Dialpad has a heavier reliance on voice communication and may face issues with downtimes.Nextiva
Nextiva is an all-in-one communication platform that manages calls, messages, and customer interactions effectively. It offers features like automatic call distribution (ACD) and interactive voice response (IVR), and boasts a highly reliable network with 99.999% availability. While Nextiva is more focused on business VoIP solutions and omnichannel customer service, it lacks the specific video conferencing focus that Highfive provides.Zoom and Other Video Conferencing Tools
Tools like Zoom, while not explicitly mentioned in the sources, are significant competitors in the video conferencing space. Zoom offers larger meeting capacities (often more than 125 participants, which is Highfive’s limit) and a wide range of integrations with other business tools. However, Highfive’s unique selling point is its seamless integration with Dolby Voice for superior audio quality and its comprehensive end-to-end solution that includes both software and hardware.Key Differences
- Meeting Capacity: Highfive is limited to 125 participants per meeting, which is less than many of its competitors.
- Audio Quality: Highfive stands out with its Dolby Voice technology, providing superior audio quality compared to many other video conferencing tools.
- Hardware and Software Integration: Highfive offers a complete solution that includes both software and hardware, making it a one-stop-shop for video conferencing needs.
- Omnichannel Support: Nextiva and Dialpad offer more comprehensive support across multiple communication channels, whereas Highfive is more specialized in video conferencing.
Highfive - Frequently Asked Questions
What is Highfive, and how has it changed since the acquisition by Dialpad?
Highfive was a video conferencing company known for its cloud-native platform and one-touch, browser-based HD-quality video conferencing services. After being acquired by Dialpad in 2020, Highfive’s technology has been integrated into Dialpad Meetings. This integration has enhanced Dialpad’s capabilities to provide a unified communications platform that includes voice, SMS, and video conferencing.
What features does Dialpad Meetings offer, based on Highfive’s technology?
Dialpad Meetings, which incorporates the best of Highfive, offers several key features:
- An all-in-one room solution integrated with Poly hardware.
- Plug-and-play functionality with the same in-room features as Highfive.
- Easy click-to-join meetings.
- The ability to host and join meetings from any desktop or mobile browser.
- High-powered collaboration with Dialpad’s built-in AI, which can take notes and action items.
How does Highfive’s technology extend Dialpad’s capabilities?
Highfive’s technology allows Dialpad to extend its services into conference rooms, huddle rooms, and home offices. It provides SIP connector capabilities, enabling interoperability with other SIP-based video providers like BlueJeans, Zoom, and Cisco. This integration enhances Dialpad’s ability to deliver seamless video meetings across various environments.
What are the pricing plans for Highfive, now that it is part of Dialpad Meetings?
Although Highfive as a standalone product has been sunsetted, its pricing plans were previously structured as follows:
- Essential: $99 per month/room (paid annually)
- Standard: $149 per month/room (paid annually)
- Professional: $199 per month/room (paid annually)
For current pricing and offers, it is best to contact Dialpad directly, as they may have special pricing for former Highfive customers.
How does the integration with Dialpad’s AI enhance the meeting experience?
The integration with Dialpad’s AI adds several advanced features to the meeting experience, including real-time transcription, facial recognition, translation, and voice analytics. The AI can also take notes and action items during meetings, making the collaboration process more efficient and productive.
Is Highfive compatible with other video conferencing platforms?
Highfive’s technology, now part of Dialpad Meetings, allows for interoperability with other SIP-based video providers such as BlueJeans, Zoom, and Cisco. However, it does not currently interoperate with Microsoft Teams due to Microsoft’s WebRTC-based platform and limited API access.
What kind of support and resources are available for former Highfive users transitioning to Dialpad Meetings?
Former Highfive users can reach out to Dialpad for support and to learn more about exclusive offers and special pricing. Dialpad provides a help center and customer support for troubleshooting and account-related issues.
How has the user experience changed for those who used Highfive?
The user experience remains largely similar, with an emphasis on simplicity and ease of use. Users can still easily start calls and meetings from any desktop or mobile browser. The integration with Dialpad has added more advanced features and improved the overall collaboration experience.
Are there any known issues or common complaints about the Highfive technology now integrated into Dialpad Meetings?
Some users have reported issues such as lag during screen sharing, occasional disconnections, and software restarts during meetings. However, these issues are generally dependent on internet connection quality and may have been addressed in updates since the integration.
Can I still use Highfive as a standalone product?
No, Highfive as a standalone product has been sunsetted as of 2022. All its features and capabilities are now part of Dialpad Meetings.