Lenovo ThinkSmart Hub

Basic information

The Lenovo ThinkSmart Hub is a purpose-built, all-in-one appliance designed to streamline and enhance collaboration in modern meeting environments. It offers dedicated solutions for unified communications platforms, primarily Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms.

• Model: Lenovo ThinkSmart Hub (including Hub 500 and Gen 2 iterations)
• Version: ThinkSmart Hub 500, ThinkSmart Hub Gen 2
• Release Date: The ThinkSmart Hub 500 was discontinued as of June 30, 2020, and was replaced by the ThinkSmart Hub Gen 2.
• Minimum Requirements: Requires a proper Microsoft Teams Room or Zoom Rooms infrastructure deployment.
• Supported Operative Systems: Windows 10 IoT Enterprise (for Hub 500 and some Gen 2 configurations), Windows 11 IoT Enterprise (for some Gen 2 configurations).
• Latest Stable Version: ThinkSmart Hub Gen 2 is the current generation.
• End of Support Date: Active development support for the ThinkSmart Hub 500 ends after October 2025. Windows 10 servicing for the Hub 500 also ends in October 2025. Lenovo generally provides service and support for at least five years following a product's withdrawal from marketing, but specific planned End of Service (EOS) dates are not always publicly posted for current models.
• End of Life Date: The ThinkSmart Hub 500 was discontinued on June 30, 2020.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Tied to the operating system's end of servicing. For the Hub 500 running Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, this is October 2025.
• License Type: Unified Communications (UC) software licenses (e.g., Microsoft Teams Rooms, Zoom Rooms) are typically purchased separately or through licensing agreements. ThinkSmart Manager, a management console, is included for the first year and available on a subscription basis thereafter (Basic/Premium tiers).
• Deployment Model: All-in-one appliance designed for small to medium-sized conference rooms.

Technical Specifications

The Lenovo ThinkSmart Hub is engineered for stable performance in video conferencing environments, with specifications varying slightly between generations.

• Processor: Intel Core i5 (7th Gen for Hub 500, 8th Gen with vPro for Gen 2).
• RAM: 8GB DDR4-2400 MHz (Hub 500, some Gen 2 configurations), up to 16GB DDR4-2400 MHz (some Gen 2 configurations).
• Storage: 128GB PCIe SSD (Hub 500, some Gen 2 configurations), up to 256GB PCIe SSD (some Gen 2 configurations).
• Display:
  • Hub 500: 11.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) anti-glare, anti-smudge touchscreen, 360° rotatable, 300 nits.
  • Gen 2: 10.1-inch FHD (1920 x 1200) anti-glare, smudge-resistant touchscreen, 360° rotatable, 320 nits.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel HD Graphics 630 (Hub 500), Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 (Gen 2).
• Audio:
  • Hub 500: Dual 4W Dolby Audio Premium-tuned speakers, two dual-array microphones.
  • Gen 2: Four 3W full-duplex premium-tuned speakers, four 360-degree dual-array microphones with far-field support.
• Ports: HDMI input (for content sharing), HDMI outputs (for external displays), USB-A (USB 3.0/3.1/3.2), USB-C (Gen 2), RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack.
• Operating System: Windows 10 IoT Enterprise or Windows 11 IoT Enterprise.
• Wireless: Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth (4.1 for Hub 500, 5.0 for Gen 2).
• Dimensions (H x W x D):
  • Hub 500: 279mm × 193mm × 176mm.
  • Gen 2: 185.3mm x 240mm × 200mm.
• Weight:
  • Hub 500: 2.5kg (5.5lbs).
  • Gen 2: 2.47kg (5.45lbs).

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The Lenovo ThinkSmart Hub, across its generations, is purpose-built for meeting room environments. The specifications prioritize stable performance for unified communications platforms like Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms. Intel Core i5 processors provide sufficient power for these applications, while ample RAM and SSD storage ensure quick boot times and responsive application handling. The integrated audio and rotatable touch display are central to its design, facilitating intuitive control and clear communication. The variety of ports supports connectivity with external displays and peripherals, essential for a flexible meeting space. The Gen 2 model generally offers updated components, including newer generation processors, improved graphics, and enhanced audio capabilities, reflecting continuous refinement for a better user experience.

Support & Compatibility

The ThinkSmart Hub is designed for seamless integration into modern collaboration ecosystems.

• Latest Version: ThinkSmart Hub Gen 2.
• OS Support: Windows 10 IoT Enterprise (Hub 500, some Gen 2) and Windows 11 IoT Enterprise (some Gen 2).
• End of Support Date: The ThinkSmart Hub 500's active development support and Windows 10 servicing end in October 2025. For the Gen 2, support is ongoing, with Lenovo typically providing support for at least five years post-withdrawal from marketing.
• Localization: The Hub 500 was designed for availability in 180 countries, ensuring familiarity across global organizations. Software platforms like Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms support multiple languages.
• Available Drivers: Operating system updates are delivered via Windows Update. BIOS and other critical updates are submitted automatically to Windows Update. Drivers and BIOS can also be manually downloaded from the Lenovo Technical Support portal. Lenovo Service Bridge, Lenovo Vantage, and Lenovo System Update do not support Windows 10 IoT devices.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable, as this is not a printer.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

The ThinkSmart Hub offers robust support and compatibility, primarily through its integration with Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms platforms. Lenovo provides hardware support, device recovery, and extensive FAQs. Microsoft and Zoom offer support for their respective software components. The reliance on Windows Update for OS and many driver updates simplifies maintenance, though manual downloads from Lenovo's support site are available for specific drivers and BIOS. The ThinkSmart Manager console provides IT teams with centralized control for remote monitoring, troubleshooting, and updates, enhancing manageability. The upcoming end of active development and Windows 10 servicing for the Hub 500 in October 2025 is a critical consideration for users of that model, recommending an upgrade to newer ThinkSmart room systems for continued software support and access to the latest features.

Security Status

The Lenovo ThinkSmart Hub incorporates multiple layers of security to protect data and privacy in meeting environments.

• Security Features: Lenovo ThinkShield, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, BIOS locking, I/O locking, USB Smart Lock, Kensington MiniSaver lock slot, Intel vPro platform (for enhanced data safeguarding and remote management), secure cable management door/system, Windows 10/11 IoT Enterprise (provides enterprise-grade protection), Windows Defender (default antivirus protection).
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread vulnerabilities are publicly highlighted for the ThinkSmart Hub itself beyond general OS or software-level vulnerabilities inherent to any computing device, which are addressed through regular updates.
• Blacklist Status: Not specified in available information.
• Certifications: Certified for Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms, which implies adherence to security standards set by these platforms.
• Encryption Support: TCG Opal Encryption is supported (mentioned for Gen 2).
• Authentication Methods: Standard Windows authentication and authentication methods provided by the integrated Unified Communications platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Zoom).
• General Recommendations: Keep the operating system and conferencing software updated via Windows Update and respective app stores. Utilize ThinkSmart Manager for centralized security monitoring and patch deployment. Implement physical security measures using the Kensington lock slot and cable management. Leverage Intel vPro capabilities for remote security management and troubleshooting.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

The Lenovo ThinkSmart Hub prioritizes robust security, integrating Lenovo's ThinkShield platform with hardware-level protections like TPM 2.0 and Intel vPro. These features provide a strong foundation against both cyber threats and physical tampering. The use of Windows IoT Enterprise further enhances its security posture with enterprise-grade OS features and built-in defenses like Windows Defender. Remote management tools like ThinkSmart Manager are crucial for IT teams to maintain security hygiene across a fleet of devices, ensuring timely updates and proactive vulnerability management. Overall, the device offers a high level of security suitable for enterprise environments.

Performance & Benchmarks

The ThinkSmart Hub is optimized for its role as a dedicated meeting room device.

• Benchmark Scores: Specific benchmark scores for the ThinkSmart Hub are not widely published, as it is a purpose-built appliance rather than a general-purpose computer.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Delivers smooth and responsive performance for video conferencing and related tasks. Users report quick meeting starts and reliable audio/video quality, which are critical performance indicators for collaboration tools. The Intel Core i5 processors, ample RAM, and fast SSD storage ensure efficient operation.
• Power Consumption: Uses a 90W power supply.
• Carbon Footprint: Not explicitly detailed in available public information.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Designed to be a significant upgrade from traditional speakerphones, providing an all-in-one, dedicated solution for unified communications platforms. Its integrated design aims to reduce setup time and connectivity issues common with disparate components.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

The Lenovo ThinkSmart Hub delivers strong performance tailored for its role as a dedicated meeting room device. While traditional benchmark scores are not a primary focus for this type of appliance, its hardware configuration (Intel Core i5 processors, DDR4 RAM, PCIe SSD) ensures a smooth and responsive experience for video conferencing, content sharing, and other collaboration tasks. User feedback consistently highlights quick meeting starts and reliable audio/video quality, which are paramount for effective meetings. The device's design focuses on efficiency and ease of use, contributing to a productive meeting environment.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback generally highlight the ThinkSmart Hub's effectiveness in its intended role.

• Strengths:
  • Intuitive user interface and one-touch meeting start functionality.
  • Effective cable management system, contributing to a clutter-free meeting space.
  • Enterprise-grade security backed by Lenovo ThinkShield, TPM 2.0, and Intel vPro.
  • Remote management capabilities via ThinkSmart Manager, simplifying deployment, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
  • Clear audio quality with 360-degree microphones and Dolby Audio premium sound.
  • Rotatable touchscreen display allows easy control sharing among participants.
  • Dedicated solution for Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms, ensuring optimized performance.
  • Reliable and powerful for educational applications and hybrid learning environments.
• Weaknesses:
  • The ThinkSmart Hub 500 is discontinued, and its active support ends in October 2025, necessitating upgrades for continued support.
  • Some users of the Hub 500 noted that the design could still lead to cable clutter if not properly managed.
  • Disassembly for component upgrades (e.g., RAM) can be challenging due to the internal layout.
• Recommended Use Cases: Small to medium-sized conference rooms, huddle rooms, hybrid learning environments, and any setting requiring a dedicated, reliable, and secure solution for video conferencing and collaboration.

Vulnerabilities

• CVE-2022-40137
  Published: 2023-01-30 - Updated: 2023-02-08 - CVSS: 6.7 - EPSS: 0.04% 
  A buffer overflow in the WMI SMI Handler in some Lenovo models may allow an attacker with local access and elevated privileges to execute arbitrary code.
• CVE-2022-40134
  Published: 2023-01-30 - Updated: 2023-02-08 - CVSS: 4.4 - EPSS: 0.05% 
  An information leak vulnerability in the SMI Set BIOS Password SMI Handler in some Lenovo models may allow an attacker with local access and elevated privileges to read SMM memory.
• CVE-2022-40137
  Published: 2023-01-30 - Updated: 2023-02-08 - CVSS: 6.7 - EPSS: 0.04% 
  A buffer overflow in the WMI SMI Handler in some Lenovo models may allow an attacker with local access and elevated privileges to execute arbitrary code.
• CVE-2022-40136
  Published: 2023-01-30 - Updated: 2023-02-15 - CVSS: 4.4 - EPSS: 0.05% 
  An information leak vulnerability in SMI Handler used to configure platform settings over WMI in some Lenovo models may allow an attacker with local access and elevated privileges to read SMM memory.
• CVE-2022-40135
  Published: 2023-01-30 - Updated: 2023-02-14 - CVSS: 4.4 - EPSS: 0.05% 
  An information leak vulnerability in the Smart USB Protection SMI Handler in some Lenovo models may allow an attacker with local access and elevated privileges to read SMM memory.

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Summary

The Lenovo ThinkSmart Hub, particularly in its Gen 2 iteration, stands as a robust and purpose-built solution for modern meeting and collaboration spaces. Its all-in-one design integrates essential components like a touch display, powerful processor, ample memory and storage, and high-quality audio, all optimized for unified communications platforms such as Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms. Key strengths include its intuitive user interface with one-touch meeting start, enterprise-grade security features powered by Lenovo ThinkShield and Intel vPro, and comprehensive remote management capabilities through ThinkSmart Manager. The device excels in providing a consistent, user-friendly experience, ensuring clear audio and video for all participants, which is critical for productive hybrid work environments.

However, users of the older ThinkSmart Hub 500 model should note its discontinuation and the upcoming end of active development support and Windows 10 servicing in October 2025. This necessitates planning for an upgrade to newer models like the ThinkSmart Hub Gen 2 to ensure long-term software support and access to the latest features. While the device is generally praised for its integrated design, some older models might present challenges for internal component upgrades.

Overall, the ThinkSmart Hub is an excellent choice for organizations seeking a dedicated, reliable, and secure solution for their meeting rooms. Recommendations include opting for the ThinkSmart Hub Gen 2 or newer models for new deployments or upgrades, leveraging ThinkSmart Manager for centralized device management, and consistently applying OS and application updates to maintain security and performance. Its focus on ease of use, robust security, and seamless integration with leading UC platforms makes it a valuable asset for enhancing collaboration.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.