If a new headset told you to "install the app," the answer depends only on the brand of headset in front of you.
Which headset software do I need for Windows or Mac?
| Your headset | Install this (free) |
|---|---|
| Poly / Plantronics | HP Poly Studio App |
| Jabra | Jabra Direct |
Both do the same three jobs: keep the firmware current, change headset settings such as sidetone and ringtones, and give you remote call control, so the headset's own buttons answer, end and mute softphone calls.
Poly and Plantronics: the HP Poly Studio App
The name has changed twice. It started as Plantronics Hub, became Poly Lens, and is now the HP Poly Studio App. Plantronics Hub and Plantronics Manager Pro reached end of commercial sale in May 2022, so if you are still running Hub you have missed every firmware update since. Download the HP Poly Studio App from HP's or Poly's support site; searching for the name finds it. On a Mac, install the macOS version.
Jabra: Jabra Direct
Jabra Direct is a free app for Windows and Mac, and it supports Apple Silicon. Companies managing many Jabra headsets use Jabra Xpress instead.
Do you need the software at all?
Not for basic calls. A USB headset works the moment you plug it in. You need the app for firmware updates and for remote call control, which matters most on wireless headsets. Once it's installed, a quick headset test confirms your mic and both earpieces are working.
What software do I need for my Poly or Plantronics headset?
Install the free HP Poly Studio App, the current version of what was Poly Lens and, before that, Plantronics Hub. It handles firmware updates, headset settings and remote call control on Windows and Mac.
Is Plantronics Hub still available?
No. Plantronics Hub reached end of commercial sale in May 2022 and is no longer the supported software. Its replacement for individual users is the HP Poly Studio App.
Does Poly headset software work on a Mac?
Yes. Both the HP Poly Studio App and Jabra Direct run on macOS as well as Windows, and both are free downloads from the manufacturer.