History of teleconferencing 

Considering the technologically advanced nature of teleconferencing, it’s easy to believe that it’s a recent development used by businesses, libraries, hospitals, and schools all over the world. However, the history of teleconferencing reveals that not only has this option been around for quite some time, but it has had some interesting changes as well.

Where does the history of teleconferencing begin? It starts in the 1960s, when the AA&T telephone company introduced a new device called the Picturephone. This launched the concept of teleconferencing, which allowed a group of three or more people to conduct meetings and conversations over great distances.

The Picturephone also introduced the novelty of being able to see as well as hear the other speakers.

The Picturephone was predicted to eventually become as common as normal telephones.

Unfortunately, while it was convenient to be able to communicate in this manner, it was also very expensive for average households. They left a lot to be desired regarding user friendliness and picture quality. Many simply preferred their telephones and were uncomfortable with the idea of appearing on a screen.

However, in changing their marketing to target big businesses rather than individual consumers, AT&T was able to keep the idea of teleconferences from fading into obscurity.

This was a turning point in the history of teleconferencing. After all, the Picturephone did more than just plan conferences—it also allowed employees to work from home or distant locations if needed.

Unfortunately, there were still several bugs to work out. During this period in the history of teleconferencing, many businesses still struggled with weak, limited connections and poor sound and picture quality. Such devices were also still very costly, even as technology improved.

Eventually, with the invention of the computer, a new branch of teleconferencing was born: the ability to communicate through instant messaging, microphones, webcams, and more. In addition to this, users could also transfer and download documents and information as well. As travel became more expensive, the need for teleconferences grew more and more urgent.

These days, participants are able to not only see, hear, and speak during video teleconferences, but they can also display Powerpoint presentations, write and draw on whiteboards, and even view the data on other speakers’ screens.

Don’t think for a moment that the history of teleconferencing has progressed solely for computers, however. Cell phones have also developed considerably when it comes to holding teleconferences, with options such as texting, hands free video chatting, and data transferring capabilities.

As you can see, the history of teleconferencing has come a long way. Each day, thousands of institutions use this technology to work, play, and lecture. Learn more today on how teleconferences can improve your communication today.