Hybrid Collaboration at Eye Level – Confair Buddy Makes It Possible

At last year’s Orgatec, Wilkhahn presented a prototype of its latest innovation: the Confair Buddy. This mobile, wireless avatar is designed to integrate remote participants into face-to-face meetings almost as seamlessly as if they were physically present. It takes hybrid collaboration to an entirely new level—offering an experience that closely resembles in-person interaction.

A Solution to the Hybrid Participation Gap

Conventional video conferences often leave remote participants feeling isolated and disengaged. Spontaneous exchanges, creative momentum, and the social nuances of in-person meetings are frequently lost. The Confair Buddy addresses this issue by placing remote participants at eye, ear, and voice level with those on site, fostering genuine interaction.

Advanced Features for Real Interaction

The high-quality, battery-powered stele includes an integrated tablet, a powerful audio system, and an AI-controlled camera. It is freely movable within the room and can be aligned as needed. Remote participants can actively control the camera to look around and focus on different speakers. On-site users can also activate the AI camera’s auto-tracking function via gestures, ensuring everyone remains engaged.

In dynamic, creative settings, the Confair Buddy shines. When on-site participants move around or work at whiteboards, the unit can be repositioned using integrated handles, maintaining the connection. Magnetic markers allow specific areas of analog whiteboards to be prioritized, ensuring the digital viewpoint remains present and aligned with the workflow.

Design Meets Function

Drawing on 25 years of research and innovation—originating with Wilkhahn’s “Roomware” concept from EXPO 2000—the Confair Buddy is both practical and elegantly designed. It integrates seamlessly with Confair Next room modules and fits well into modern work environments.

• The head unit, which houses the display, AI camera, speaker, and microphone, adjusts easily from seated to standing height.
• The almost life-size display keeps the remote participant in focus, while the discreet technology remains in the background.
• A powerful battery allows full-day wireless use and can be recharged via a retractable cable or charging station.
• Smooth, lockable wheels and ergonomic handles enable intuitive movement.

A Practical Alternative to Robotics

Unlike complex robotic systems, the Confair Buddy offers two key advantages: It avoids the risks of technical failure or collision, and it allows physical on-site interaction—such as being “guided by hand”—which enhances social integration and group dynamics.

Looking Ahead

Initial prototypes are already in use in pilot projects and exhibitions. Feedback from these early tests continues to inform ongoing development. Wilkhahn’s vision is clear: to shape a future in which hybrid collaboration feels natural and inclusive for all participants.

Call for Test Users

Organizations interested in testing the Confair Buddy can apply through Wilkhahn’s contact form. Due to limited availability of test units, applications will be carefully reviewed. Selected companies may soon welcome one of the world’s first ten Confair Buddy units into their workspace.

Hybrid meetings that feel real? With the Confair Buddy, this vision is becoming reality.

For more information, please visit: https://www.wilkhahn.com/en/blog/