Interview with Manish Bakshi, BenQ's MD ME & Turkey, on Next Gen Smart Board Insights

Interview with Mr. Manish Bakshi, BenQ’s MD Middle East & Turkey, on the Next Generation Smart Boards

Interviewer: Mr. Bakshi, thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us more about the latest announcement from BenQ regarding the next generation of smart boards, the Google Enterprise Devices Licensing Agreement (EDLA) certified BenQ Board Pro RP04 and the BenQ Board Master RM04?

Manish Bakshi: Absolutely. BenQ is thrilled to introduce the BenQ Board Pro RP04 and the BenQ Board Master RM04, our latest smart boards for education. These devices are certified under the Google Enterprise Devices Licensing Agreement, ensuring seamless integration with the entire Google Mobile Services (GMS) ecosystem. We’ve designed these smart boards to provide educators and students with dynamic, effective, healthy, and secure learning environments.

Interviewer:  Can you elaborate on the features that make these smart boards stand out in the education technology landscape?

Manish Bakshi: Certainly. What sets these smart boards apart is their comprehensive functionality within the Google Mobile Services ecosystem. They enable educators to access official Google services like Google Play and Google Classroom effortlessly. The large touchscreen interface facilitates a seamless experience with Google Search and other Android applications. Additionally, we’ve incorporated health-centric ClassroomCare® features, making BenQ the only provider with such a complete range. These features include Eyesafe® Certified 2.0 screens to protect users’ eyes from harmful blue light, indoor air quality (IAQ) sensors, and antimicrobial screens to minimize germ transmission.

Interviewer:  How do these new smart boards contribute to fostering collaboration and interaction in both physical and remote learning environments?

Manish Bakshi: The BenQ Boards aim to enhance collaboration and interaction in the learning process. Educators can engage students through the EZWrite 6 digital whiteboarding software, allowing them to write, illustrate, and display multimedia lessons. InstaShare 2 facilitates a unique collaborative discussion environment by sharing up to 9 screens. Whether in a physical classroom or a remote learning setting, these features create a conducive learning environment for students.

Interviewer:  BenQ has been recognized for its leadership in the market. Can you share some insights into the company’s market position, especially in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Australia?

Manish Bakshi: Certainly. According to Futuresource Consulting, BenQ held the top market position in Interactive Flat Panel Displays (IFPD) in the first half of 2023 in several countries, including the UAE. In the second quarter of 2023, we were the top seller in the Higher Education market, boasting a 35.68% market share. In Saudi Arabia and Australia, we also secured the number 1 market share in 2023 Q2, with 40.06% and 16.72% respectively.

Interviewer:  How does BenQ’s commitment to innovation in education technology reflect in the features and capabilities of these new smart boards?

Manish Bakshi: BenQ’s commitment to innovation is evident in the features of these smart boards. Our ClassroomCare® technologies prioritize the well-being of users by addressing concerns like blue light exposure and indoor air quality. The account management system (AMS) streamlines the login process for teachers, allowing them to start classes instantly. The device management system (DMS) empowers school IT admins to update firmware and settings remotely, reducing maintenance costs and the total cost of ownership for schools. Our goal is to positively impact the academic sector worldwide, enabling the next generation to develop their 21st-century skills for the future workplace.

Interviewer:  In conclusion, how does BenQ envision the future of education technology and the role these smart boards play in it?

Manish Bakshi: As we ride the digital wave, BenQ envisions a future where learning is not only meaningful and captivating but also transformative, profoundly enriching lives. These smart boards represent a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to provide cutting-edge interactive display solutions. We aim to continue fostering caring and future-proof education, making a positive impact on the academic sector globally. Our goal is to empower educators and students alike, cultivating the full potential of their 21st-century skills for the future workplace.

Interviewer:  Thank you, Mr. Bakshi, for sharing valuable insights into BenQ’s latest advancements in education technology.

Manish Bakshi: Thank you for having me. We are excited about the potential these smart boards hold in shaping the future of education.