SMS-2-Call : Free SMS Callback Service from GTA-Wireless

GTA-Wireless, a canada based company has launched a new sms callback service nicknamed sms-2-call. The service is totally free for about 44 countries. Call to and from any of this 44 countries is free. All you have to do to use this service is to send an sms containing you phone number and the destination number separated by a space to 1- 647-504-CALL (2255). within 10 to 30 seconds your phone will ring and you will be conected to your intended destination. If you want to receive the call on the phone you use to send the sms, then you only need to send the destination number by sms. Its very easy to use and worked really fine. The audio quality is really good.If you have unlimited incoming calls as part of your cellular plan, you can make unlimited local and long distance calls on your cell phone at anytime with this service. Click Here for more details on how to use sms-2-call and to see the list of countries you can call for free.

Fring - The 3G Mobile VoIP Application

Fring is the latest mobile voip application that works on 3G mobile phones. It enables users to make free mobile phone calls and send text messages to other fring users and also PC based services like Skype and GoogleTalk. The only cost involve when calling using fring is just the cost of your existing data plan. All you need to use fring is a 3G handset and a 3G network with internet connectivity which is always readily available from your mobile service provider. The small application can be downloaded directly from fring website or from an sms send to you by another fring user. Fring completely bypass traditional mobile voice network and work just over the 3G data network, enabling mobile-to-mobile calls, mobile-to-landline calls, and mobile-to-PC calls including integration into Skype and Google Talk services wherever you are.
Fring's patent pending peer-to-peer Mobile VoIP technology works really great, the audio quality is really good, no airtime cost, no special hardware is required and no WiFi or other VoIP network limitation. Very easy to install and use, so if you have a 3G handset Fring is really worth giving a try. Check out www.fring.com

TalkPlus delivers Voice 2.0 to your mobile phone

TalkPlus has just launched a service to bring Voice 2.0 revolution to your mobile phone. The TalkPlus service will leverages VoIP, identity management, scheduling/contact rules, and other advanced business/personal processes that make your mobile experience more productive while enabling privacy controls. The TalkPlus service is so unique and have enourmous potential and its no surprise that its has been making rounds in the blogosphere since its launch at the ITExpo. TalkPlus has been in business since 2004 and is finally getting ready to announce its first beta, perhaps as early as next week. They have also receive a $5.5 million financing from Menlo Ventures making it one of the few Voice 2.0 startups to really get off the ground.
Jeff Black, the chief executive and founder of TalkPlus gave a demo of the service , which is which is essentially a “virtual number” on your mobile phone. The service needs a tiny application that is downloaded onto your phone and becomes your virtual mobile number, which can make and receive phone calls.
Here is how it works: the service gives you a TalkPlus number that you can pass around freely. The service connects to a TalkPlus server over the data network, and allows you to authenticate your number. All out bound calls from your phone can be made via any of the two phone numbers you have - your cell phone, or this virtual number. Outbound and inbound calls use the voice channel, and connect to the PSTN network. There is no voice quality degradation, typically a problem with mobile VoIP offerings. Those who are receiving your call can only see your virtual phone ID.
When they want to return your phone call, they can hit call and the call is returned to the virtual number. When they hit send, the call is then routed to the TalkPlus softswitch and then onto your mobile phone. The original cell phone number can stay anonymous, if you so desire, a feature that can come in handy in a variety of situations.

Skype loosing Staffs!

There has been several defections at Skype since the eBay take over. Lot of Skypeearly staffs, those who helped create the voip giant have been leaving the company since eBay took over. Over the pass few months Lisa Hempel and Erica Jostedt who were members of Skype external PR team has left to seek greener pastures elsewhere. Other latest departures from skype include Nitzan Shaer, Skype’s Director of Mobile Devices and Stephanie Bouchet, who used to handle marketing at Skype. Does this mean that skype staffs are not seeing much prospects for the voip application in the future. Not a few believed that eBay over paid for skype considering the competition out there and it seems early skypers are coming to that conclusion too.

VoiceOne Powers NFL Network Campaign With Click-to-Call Technology

VoiceOne™ Communications, LLC, a subsidiary of VoIP, Inc., announced today that it is providing its patented Click-to-Call technology to power what could be the largest Click-to-Call promotional campaign ever developed, for the NFL Network, the first 24-hour, seven-day-a-week television network dedicated solely to the NFL. The overall campaign was created by the NFL Network's ad agency Media Storm, which incorporates VoiceOne's Click-to-Call Voice over IP (VoIP) technology, created and patented by VoIP, Inc.
The Click-To-Call portion of the promotional campaign, scheduled to begin Monday, Oct. 30, makes it easy for viewers to sign up for the NFL Network on DirecTV, DISH Network or Verizon's FiOS TV service. Consumers can simply click on one of the NFL Network banner ads that will be placed on various sites, including DirecTV, DISH, Verizon, Yahoo! and CBS Sportsline, or directly at http://www.iwantmynflnetwork.com, and immediately receive a call from the service provider of their choice. VoiceOne will receive a fee each time a user clicks on the banner ad and uses the company's technology to place a call.
"Click-to-Call is becoming the new wave of directional media marketing, predicted by The Kelsey Group to reach $119.8 billion globally in 2010, and this promotion marks the first campaign of this magnitude to use Click-to-Call technology," said Shawn Lewis, VoIP, Inc.'s Chief Technology Officer. "Our patented Click-to-Call technology provides an easy, reliable mechanism to drive traffic, create awareness and help fulfill the NFL Network's goal of increasing viewership."
For pro football enthusiasts in some markets, the new online campaign using Voice One levels the playing field by making it easier to get the NFL Network, said Craig Woerz, managing partner of Media Storm LLC. "It's like playing hurry up offense with no timeouts. Click on the DISH/DIRECT ad, punch in your telephone number and in a snap you are called to get connected to the NFL Network. It's that easy."
VoiceOne is steadily building its base of commercial customers for its Click-to-Call technology. In December 2005, VoIP, Inc. filed its 8K indicating its selection as Google's VoIP provider for its Click-to-Call product offerings, and has continued to increase its market presence by adding such clients as Varitalk LLC for a promotional campaign for the new season of "America's Next Top Model" on the CW Network. This Internet and phone marketing campaign powered by VoiceOne allows fans to send and receive personalized phone messages from Trya Banks, the show's star. VoiceOne also worked with Varitalk on the successful "Snakes on a Plane" phone campaign that featured the voice of Samuel L. Jackson.
"Click-to-Call technology is becoming increasingly popular with marketers and advertisers for campaigns that are easy to execute and measure, build buzz and yield identifiable results," Lewis added. "We offer a reliable and proven Click-to-Call platform and we're seeing growing demand for our technology from a variety of companies."

New SIP Integrations added to AVST's CallXpress

Applied Voice & Speech Technologies (AVST) announced it has added new SIP integrations to its flagship CallXpress unified communications platform. As part of its ongoing goal to support interoperability and offer the most integrations in the market, AVST's CallXpress will support SIP integration to the Nortel Communication Server 1000 and Avaya Communications Manager PBX products. AVST plans plans to provide additional SIP integrations with leading communication products, including the Microsoft Live Communications Server. "Because SIP is a popular protocol for IP telephony, video, instant messaging, and presence engines, it is the ideal protocol to be used by unified communications solutions like CallXpress," said AVST's Vice President of Product Management, Tom Minifie.
"For companies that are interested in migrating to VoIP, either now or in the future, CallXpress can be easily integrated via SIP to IP telephony systems, and at the same time, continue to support legacy PBX systems." In addition, AVST now provides a CallXpress Turnkey option for all of its servers, which enables customers to purchase the T2000, I4000, I6000 and the new V2000 models pre- loaded with CallXpress software. This option was developed to make deployment easy for system integrators and enable resellers to quickly fulfill orders by delivering the server with all the software pre-installed.
"This is just another example of AVST's commitment to providing best-of-breed technology built to ensure ease of use, simple installation and administration, and low cost of ownership," added Minifie. "Using our CallXpress Turnkey option, final onsite installation is reduced to site specific configuration tasks. System integrators save valuable time by avoiding hardware integration, operating system configuration, and basic software installation tasks."

Telrex Supports more SIP based IP PBX

Telrex, developer of VoIP call recording and monitoring software for SMBs using IP PBXs or hosted PBX services, announced support for IP PBXs from Pingtel, Fonality, TalkSwitch, and Switchvox.
Pingtel, Fonality, TalkSwitch, and Switchvox are all innovative providers of SIP-based IP PBXs. Support for these IP PBXs strengthens CallRex's leadership position in the VoIP call recording market for small and medium businesses. With hundreds of deployments on SIP-based IP PBXs and softswitches from multiple manufacturers, CallRex supports more SIP-based IP PBXs than any other call recording solution. In addition to Pingtel, Fonality, TalkSwitch, and Switchvox, CallRex supports SIP-based IP PBXs from Cisco, Asterisk, Avaya, Nortel, Mitel, ShoreTel, 3Com, NEC, Siemens, Mitel, Zultys, and Vertical, and SIP-based softswitches from BroadSoft, Sylantro, and Tekelec.
SIP is growing rapidly as an IP PBX standard and makes it easy for IP PBX resellers to quickly sell and deploy VoIP in businesses of all sizes, enabling small and medium businesses in particular to access a wide variety of previously unaffordable applications such as call recording. "Telrex is pleased to bring affordable call recording to those businesses that have invested in SIP IP PBXs, including those from Pingtel, Fonality, TalkSwitch, and Switchvox," said Robert Kapela, president of Telrex. "For many of these businesses, it is the promise of applications like call recording that makes standards-based IP PBXs so attractive."

TelePlus Now Ready to Deploy SIP Platform

Thanks to a two-year strategic partnership with Digitrad France, TelePlus Group is gearing up to offer VoIP services using a turnkey SIP network - the PsipTN (Public SIP Telephony Network). The deployment of PsipTN, set to go live later this year, will allow TelePlus to offer customers a telecommunications and billing system, using the Vocalyz product for on-the-road travel and at home using the VoIP enabled 1TC product.
"By allowing customers to continue making and receiving long distance calls and to access the TelePlus proprietary 'inlanguage' interpreter/concierge services beyond the travel experience, we are not only creating an efficient form of seamless communications, but also a continuous revenue stream by unifying access components (GSM/VoIP/WiFi) and consolidated billing applications," said Jim Gibson, vice president of business development for TelePlus Group.
PsipTN is developed by TelTel, (news - alert) a developer of VoIP SVNO platforms. Together with PsipTN comes a fullfeatured VoIP softphone client, which allows the customer to seamlessly continue using TelePlus communication services well beyond the travel experience. The process is universal and allows users to make low cost calls, continue receiving calls from their local number, manage personal buddy lists and access the TelePlus international services and more from anywhere around the world. PsipTN is integrated with the existing Digitrad (news - alert) GSM billing system, Stand4U, which is a Web-based IVR platform that allows for the efficient immediacy and accuracy of account provisioning, data access and billing transfers.

Analog Radio Adapter for SIP Networks from JPS

Raytheon JPS Communications has announced a new Analog Radio Adapter, the ARA-1. The new solution is comparable to an analog telephone adapter and enables a standard radio to operate on a SIP network.
The ARA-1 extends the coverage and capabilities of existing SIP PBXs by enabling the interface of land mobile radios to the system. Radios are connected through the ARA-1 and are assigned unique extensions, so they can easily be dialed via any IP phone, softphone, or voice device associated with the SIP PBX. A number of services are also available, including call logging, call recording, and call forwarding. The SIP PBX can also enable video conferencing, document sharing, and text messaging between compatible devices.
The new solution brings radio networks into the SIP arena and also brings SIP-based communications to areas not serviced or reachable using a SIP network. For instance, an ARA-1 could be used to extend SIP communications into tunnels, across bodies of water or through rugged terrain. "The ARA-1 is a perfect marriage between land mobile radios and IP-based networks," said Mike Cox, vice president of engineering for JPS Communications. "It combines a supremely capable radio interface to the standards-based open SIP protocol that is rapidly becoming the acknowledged pathway to the convergence of voice, data, and video."

New Advanced IP-Based Services Unveiled by Verizon Business

Verizon Business introduced two new Internet protocol-based capabilities for its Contact Center Services and VoIP portfolio to help businesses enhance customer-service operations and leverage the benefits of VoIP.
The new offerings are: IP Tollfree Service; IP IVR, an interactive voice-response system for contact center services; and new IP Trunking options, all featuring interoperability with Avaya enterprise communications software. "We continue to advance and extend our VoIP offerings to meet customer needs where it matters most - at the heart of their business operations," said Tom Roche, vice president for network voice and data services for Verizon Business.
"IP Tollfree and IP IVR will help redefine how companies implement contact centers in the future. As businesses increasingly make the move to IP, Verizon Business continues to outpace the industry, delivering one of the most complete suites of VoIP services available today."
Verizon IP Tollfree routes incoming toll-free calls over IP to enable greater efficiency and support multiple-contact media, such as phone calls, e-mail, or IM from around the globe. The service enables contact center agents to transfer calls using capabilities inherent to SIP, which enables real-time communication on the Internet. Since IP Tollfree is a network- based service, companies benefit from lower total cost of ownership because they do not have to own and operate costly gateway equipment.
Verizon IP IVR provides call processing in a pure IP environment over a carrier-grade, global network infrastructure, enabling customers to benefit from network efficiencies such as voice compression and dynamic bandwidth allocation. The service offers administrators an extensive selection of call-routing and processing features and terminates incoming calls to both TDM and IP endpoints, allowing customers to adopt IP technology at their own pace. Verizon Business has designed and certified IP Tollfree and IP IVR to be compatible with Avaya Communication Manager with SIP enablement services (SES) 3.1 software and other leading SIP-enabled endpoints.
"Our research shows that there is a huge pent up demand for SIP-based call delivery, and Verizon Business is meeting that demand," said Robin Goad, lead analyst, contact centers, Datamonitor. "Businesses can improve customer service by working with suppliers that offer robust but simple-to-use-service offerings and whose portfolios reflect a clear IP strategy."

Quintum and BrandTel Partner

BandTel and Quintum Technologies (news - alert) have formed a relationship that will allow customers to acquire a Tenor VoIP switch or gateway with the BandTel Services. BandTel is a provider of next-generation VoIP termination to the PSTN for high-volume telecom users such as call centers, enterprise users, teleconferencing companies, and IVR users. The company's VoIP network solutions are now fully interoperable with Tenor VoIP MultiPath switches and gateways.
Enterprise users will be able to access the combination of BandTel's VoIP network to deliver call center and enterprise users a cost-effective, fault- tolerant voice architecture and Quintum's Tenor VoIP MultiPath solutions.
According to Chris Dunk, president and CEO of BandTel, "Quintum's Tenor VoIP MultiPath solutions are the perfect complement to BandTel's network because both integrate so easily into an existing network, even if legacy devices are present and both guarantee dependable switching and routing. In addition, by mutually supporting the SIP standard, we are working together to advance the future of VoIP technology."
Because Quintum's Tenor switches support industry standards like SIP, they are wholly interoperable with BandTel's SIP Softswitch technology. Customers deploying Quintum''s MultiPath VoIP systems with BandTel's VoIP services will have the unique ability to connect call systems via a trunk-to-trunk transfer and cost-effectively terminate calls to and from any location in the world. This allows users to instantly unite their global businesses with multiple users in various locations.
In addition to Quintum, BandTel has partnered with several other names as well, including Sphere, Digium, AudioCodes, and VegaStream.

More VoIP Environments Now to be Supported by Sipera IPCS 310

VoIP security technology provider Sipera Systems (news - alert) of Richardson, Texas, announced expansion of its IP communications security solutions to more environments. The company's IPCS 310 will now offer protection of VoIP and IM to more environments, allowing enterprises, especially in the financial services and healthcare industries, to secure legacy systems and additional IP communications applications against attacks, misuse, and service abuse.
The IPCS 310 system monitors VoIP traffic, detects anomalies in call traffic patterns, and identifies threats to protect end-user devices and network infrastructures for enterprises with up to 1000 users. The new upgrades features include multiple protocol support to protect VoIP assets in mixed protocol environments; border control to enable the deployment of SIP trunks and voice extranets, as well as extend VoIP infrastructure to mobile users; expanded IM protection for SPIM and IM spoofing to protect internal and external IM communications; IM logging functionality; and additional media protection to prevent threats that may be launched through the media channel after a VoIP connection has been established.
"Giving customers choices and flexibility is particularly important as new technology is integrated into existing enterprises," said Sipera's president and CEO, Seshu Madhavapeddy. "For enterprises of all sizes and configurations, comprehensive network-level and end-user security is a prerequisite to deploying today's growing suite of collaborative VoIP, IM, and other IP communications applications."
Madhavapeddy added: "With these new features, the Sipera IPCS 310 allows enterprises to efficiently take advantage of today's real-time, IP communication applications without compromising the network's security requirements."

CommuniGate Systems Releases Upgrades for VoIP and SIP

CommuniGate Systems has announced its "Trade In and Trade Up" program to enable carriers to upgrade to new valueadded services including VoIP, SIP/XMPP secure IM and hosted PBX. The program will enable carriers to trade in legacy e-mail software, saving on support and maintenance services. They may then "trade up" to replace antiquated messaging systems and offer a full suite of IP communications solutions.
CommuniGate's initiative will enables service providers to smoothly migrate their communications services to an IMS-ready platform. It is targeted toward providers that have customers unable to access SIP-based IP communications networks because their email solutions use legacy technology.
The providers will be offered a full CommuniGate Pro license, replacing their existing ongoing support costs. A simple migration will then enable providers to offer a number of enhanced IP communications services. Carriers may choose which features of the CommuniGate Pro suite they wish to deploy. The modules offered include SIP Proxy, Session Border Controller (SBC), IP PBX, clustered voice through a SIP Farm, audio conferencing, XMPP support and voice mail.
"The feedback we are receiving is tremendous as the world is now adopting SIP based Communications. Mobility and productivity will rise and traditional closed and location locked access will die," said Jon Doyle, vice president of business development for CommuniGate Systems.
Doyle continued: "We will witness a fundamental change in the communications landscape over the next five years just as we saw in the early 90s with email becoming the communication standard medium for business," added Doyle. "Holding users to a location with a phone number, or charging them for roaming to other locations will soon be replaced with the mobility and portability of VoIP - where one address finds a person anywhere, anytime."

Security for SIP Communications

BorderWare Technologies and Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) founder Phil Zimmermann announced that BorderWare is poised to become the first commercial licensee of Zfone, a secure VoIP media encryption software solution also created by Zimmermann. By integrating integrates Zfone with BorderWare's SIPassure VoIP Security Gateway, this agreement brings a new level of security and ease of use to VoIP systems. According to BorderWare, SIPassure is the industry's first VoIP security gateway that takes VoIP application security to a new level by combining the best features of an enterprise firewall, application layer gateway, and a Session Border Controller.
SIPassure is designed to secure all SIP-based applications, including VoIP services, video conferencing, and other messaging applications. SIPassure ensures that organizations using SIP-based communications remain harbored from impairment and service disruption from internal and external attacks, interference spam, and other threats. The integration of Zfone media encryption with SIPassure ensures that BorderWare's customers have the security to ward off Spam threats, DoS attacks, eavesdropping, spying, and wiretapping,--all without limiting the performance and convenience customers have come to expect from their e-mail.

Patton's SmartNode VoIP CPE gets Thomson Certification

Patton-Inalp Networks (news - alert) has announced that its SmartNode brand of VoIP routers has been certified by Thomson for interoperability with Thomson's Cirpack brand softswitches. The certification assures carrier customers of a smooth migration as they move from multiple legacy infrastructures to fully converged IP-based voice and data services.
Patton has actively sought softswitch interoperability for both its SmartNode and SmartLink families of VoIP and triple play platforms via its own Interoperability Program, which acknowledges third-party softswitches that passed tests proving they work with Patton's equipment - primarily in the area of live carrier deployments. For use with Thompson's equipment, SmartNode gateways connect business and residential equipments to the next- gen VoIP features and services enabled by Cirpack (news - alert) using SIP. As such, SmartNode products are designed with the future of the communications industry in mind, capable of supporting new advanced products as they emerge. In addition to being SIP-compliant, SmartNode supports H.323, T.38 fax relay, fax bypass, modem bypass, Voice over VPN, AES/DES-IPSec voice encryption, and DownStream QoS.
"Patton brings a lot to the table," said Fabien Maisl, Marketing Director of Thomson's Network Intelligence Solutions Cirpack. "Their extensive portfolio is a great fit with our worldwide customer base. Carriers always prefer a single-source supplier, and SmartNode pretty well covers it. We are very pleased to welcome Patton as a certified technology partner.

Upgraded Unified Communications Software Release by Interactive Intelligence

Interactive Intelligence, a global developer of business communications software, has released an upgraded version of its unified communications software, Communite. Communite is a voice mail replacement system offering standards-based unified messaging, interactive voice response, and real-time communications services for all types of organizations, including large, distributed enterprises and higher education institutions.
The latest Communite release, version 2.4, was designed to further increase organizational productivity while minimizing infrastructure requirements with enhanced functionality for speech-enabled mobile applications, simplified creation of customized voice mail menus, flexible personalization options for presence management, and an alternate message store for unified messaging applications.
"These latest enhancements to Communite make it an even more compelling unified communications system for organizations with mobile employees, those looking to replace aging voice mail systems, and companies that must comply with increasingly stringent archive messaging requirements," said Yankee Group senior analyst, Ken Landoline. "With IP telephony driving faster adoption of unified communications solutions, Communite's built-in SIP support gives it an added competitive advantage."
New in Communite 2.4 is an enhanced Interaction Mobile Office(TM) application, which builds on its existing speech-enabled auto-attendant by adding a speech-enabled menu for message retrieval, status changes, and company directory access. A new telephone user interface enables organizations to use XML for easy emulation of existing voice mail menus, thus reducing user training requirements when replacing voice mail systems.
Other enhanced features such as new customizable status codes that can be applied to different messaging rules - for instance, "if out of office, forward calls to mobile phone" - give organizations unsurpassed flexibility.

Huawei and Ubiquity Partners for IP Conferencing Solution at Telefonica

Huawei Deploys Ubiquity Software at Telefonica for IP Conferencing Ubiquity Software has announced a joint win with Huawei Technologies, whereby Ubiquity and Huawei have deployed Ubiquity's IP conferencing solution at Telefónica Argentina, the first service provider to launch IP conferencing services using Speak from the Huawei/ Ubiquity relationship.
Ubiquity's Speak IP conferencing solution is a scalable, carrier-class, IP conferencing application that enables Conferencing Service Providers to offer hosted audio and Web conferencing services. Speak leverages SIP-based VoIP and Ubiquity's carrier-grade SIP Application Server (SIP A/S) architecture. This easy-to-use, browser-based solution offers a complete conferencing application feature set as well as a web portal for scheduling, initiating, managing and terminating multi-party conferences.
"With years of experience deploying next-generation network solutions in over 20 countries, Huawei understands carriers' needs, and is experiencing a strong demand for SIP-based applications," said Mr. James Yuan, Vice President, Strategy & Marketing for Application and Software Product Line for Huawei Technologies. "Ubiquity's Speak IP conferencing solution allows us to market a world-class solution to address our customers' needs."

DIRECTV Parent Company to Provide VoIP Service

The parent company of DirecTV satellite television services apparently sees promise in the VoIP market, announcing a pilot program for the delivery of VoIP services to multiple dwelling unit (MDU) and gated community owners in the United States.
DirecPath, a company formed recently from the combination of Hicks Holdings LLC and The DIRECTV Group, is testing the waters with a bundled offering of television programming, broadband voice, and data and security offerings. Vistula Communications Services (news - alert) is contributing its V-Cube plat- form to make delivery of the pilot program possible. V-Cube provides “a secure, simplified, scalable, and highly resilient VoIP infrastructure,” according to the company.
DirecPath’s CEO, Paul Savoldelli, stressed that his company is “committed to meeting the needs of owners and residents in MDU and gated communities nationwide and providing them with a unique and compelling value proposition.” “DirecPath is positioning itself for leadership in its industry, by developing an innovative suite of bundled services that will drive customer growth, win consumer loyalty, and generate higher average revenue per user,” noted Vistula executive chairman and CEO, Rupert Galliers-Pratt.
http://www.directv.com
http://www.vistula.com

Level 3 to provide High Speed Service for MySpace

Social networking giant MySpace recently tapped Level 3 to support its services and demand for increased bandwidth. The multi-year agreement provides Level 3’s High Speed IP Service, helping to maintain MySpace’s many features including blogs, user profiles, groups, photos, video uploading and downloading, and internal e-mail.
“We are excited to be working with MySpace to support their high capacity needs and their delivery of video services,” said Brady Rafuse, president of Content Markets for Level 3. “MySpace is a clear leader in delivering content for online social networking, and this agreement underscores the growth we are seeing in demand for our services in this important segment.”
“We selected Level 3 because of the proven performance of its network and Level 3’s ability to support increasing high bandwidth demand,” added Aber Whitcomb, chief technology officer of MySpace.
Level 3 provides a variety of services over its broadband fiber optic network including Internet Protocol (IP) services, broadband transport and infrastructure services, colocation services, voice services, and Voice over IP services.
http://www.myspace.com
http://www.level3.com

Latens CAS Solution for Eagle Broadband IPTV Services

Eagle Broadband has chosen the Latens IP CAS Conditional Access solution from Latens Systems to secure its advanced IPTV services, which include more than 200 channels of secured video services.
Eagle chose the Latens IP CAS solution after months of assessing all IPTV conditional access technologies available in the market. The Latens solution offers the ability to adapt to robust network architectures, and Latens also offers a proactive approach to security, which was instrumental in Eagle’s decision. Eagle also cited the Latens solution’s adaptability when integrating with their Linux-based STBs as a factor in their decision.
“Our customers demand the best and latest video content available in the market today,” said Brian Morrow, COO of Eagle Broadband. “And our content providers demand a robust CAS solution. We found that Latens’ solution offered the best option in the IPTV CAS market today, and that its encryption architecture could adapt easily to our Eagle engineered STBs.”
“Eagle challenged us to prove that our solution can adapt and scale to their robust network architecture within certain market-driven cost constraints. We are pleased to have been chosen over our competitors,” said Dean Kashlan, GM and VP of Latens. “Eagle Broadband will be able to encrypt all content at their super head-end in Miami. The signal will remain 100 percent encrypted throughout the network, and only be decrypted at their Linux-based STBs wherever they may be in the U.S. The Latens IP CAS is especially well designed to accommodate Eagle’s high volume of IPTV subscribers.”
http://www.eaglebroadband.com

Broadvoice makes 911 available to all VoIP Customers

Since the FCC mandated last year that all VoIP subscribers must have access to 911 facilities, broadband voice service providers have scurried to comply. But it is taking time, as there are a number of complexities involved, including hardware, location technology, subscriber mobility, and local jurisdiction.
At last, having overcome the many hurdles it and other VoIP providers have faced, business and consumer broadband service provider BroadVoice (news - alert) has announced that 100% of its customers in the United States now have access to 911 service. That means that when a BroadVoice customer dials 9-1-1, he is quickly connected to either a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) or the National Emergency Call Center, either of which are capable of dispatching emergency services.
Based on each subscriber’s account, three levels of 911 support are available — Enhanced 911 (E911), Basic 911 (B911), and what BroadVoice calls National Call Center 911 (NCC911). With E911, a callers location can be determined by the operator, as it has previously been identified by the user via phone or Web. With B911 and NCC911, callers must communicate their location to the operator in order for emergency personnel to be dispatched.
“Traditional phone companies have felt competitive pressure from VoIP carriers. In response, they’ve cited their 911 service as a competitive advantage. Naturally, the old phone companies want to keep that advan- tage, so they haven’t been particularly helpful in providing VoIP carriers with access to their 911 call centers,” said Les Berry, BroadVoice presi- dent. “Now that we’ve overcome these roadblocks, we can provide 911 services to every customer. This has been our objective from day one.”
http://www.broadvoice.com

iotum™ Launches Relevance Enabled Channel Partner Program

Iotum has announced the on-demand availability of its award winning Web 2.0 Call Management Applications, including its flagship iotum™ Relevance Engine™, through a worldwide channel partner network of Service Providers, System Integrators, and telephony Value-Added Resellers. The iotum Relevance Engine is the industry’s first call management platform to intelligently assess the relevance of any call, and to automatically route that call to the most appropriate destination.
iotum’s Relevance Enabled Channel Partner Program provides opportunities for partners to boost margins and increase revenues by deploying new, revenue-generating services to their customers based on the iotum Relevance Engine. The iotum Relevance Enabled Partner Program provides partners with recognition as an iotum certified partner; lead generation programs; joint marketing opportunities; development seats; and additional revenues and market development funds.
“From the day iotum was founded, we have envisioned iotum being available to all users of cell phone, landline PBX, VoIP Phone, PDA, and web sites”, said Alec Saunders, iotum CEO and co-founder. “Today we’re thrilled to announce a great new group of partners who will bring iotum to more mobile professionals and small businesses worldwide.”
“Our customers demand a little magic in every phone call,” said Sam Aparicio, Vice President of Products and Strategy at Angel.com. “Partnering with iotum helps us deliver just that. Iotum’s unparalleled knowledge of relevance and understanding of caller psychology makes them a valuable partner for Angel.com”
iotum’s new channel partners include Angel.com, Core Telecom Innovations Inc, ESCAUX, The Flat Planet Phone Company, Integrics Limited, and Nufone Incorporated. More information on each of these partners can be found at www.iotum.com/partners.php.
“iotum’s Relevance Enabled Partnership with Nufone adds tremendous value to our customers’ calling experience,” said Nufone CEO Allan Noorda. “For our customers, it’s all about being competitive within enterprise markets. With iotum, our small and medium business clients will never miss an important call, and never be interrupted again when it’s inappropriate.”
Throughout iotum’s product development process, the company has collaborated with independent software vendors and service providers. With the release of the iotum integration tools earlier this year, a growing community of third parties have been announcing relationships with iotum, including AOL’s AIM Phoneline, Epygi Technologies Ltd, Televolution Inc, Unlimitel Inc and Versature Corporation.

ViaTalk's Special Offer gets even better !

ViaTalk , the no.1 Broadband phone service provider has improved their special offer even futher. Before now when you subscribe to the vt_unlimited for 24 months you get six months free but that is now history, now when you subscribe to ViaTalk's vt_unlimited for just 1 year you get additional one 1 year free. In addition you get all equipments free and shipping is also free. With vt_unlimited you get free unlimited calls to US and Canada and low rates to other destinations. Also you get a host of other features for free. This is a wonderful offer considering viatalk superior audio quality, customer sercive and low rates. You can read my review of viatalk broadband phone service. Click HERE for more details about this great offer

Everlasting Credit now a feature of all Betamax Products and Poivy reduce rates!

From voipbuter to webcall direct, everlasting credit is now a feature of all Betamax products. With evelasting credit your credit will never expire, so there is no risk of losing your money. The only limitation now is that when you buy credit you will get a 120 freedays during which you can call the popular destinations for free and after the 120 days you will be charge minimum rate of 1 cent per min for those destinations. This has been a feature of some of their product for long but has now been extended to all their products which include voipbuster, voipcheap, voipdiscount, poivy, webcall direct etc. Also in a bid to remain the cheapest voip provider on the internet Betamax has reduced the rates to call landline and mobile in several countries. Checkout http://www.poivy.com/en/rates.html for details about the rates. On the down side it now cost 1 cent per min to call U.S mobile which before now used to be free.

Truphone launches mobile VoIP Service for Nokia's N80

Truphone today announced a beta version of its free VoIP download for Nokia’s best-selling, Wi-Fi-enabled N80 mobile handset. Available from the Truphone website later this month, the download instantly brings free and low-cost mobile calls within easy reach of all N80 handset owners.
Overwhelming customer demand for the N80 download became evident following the launch in September of Truphone’s download for the Nokia E-series. Today’s announcement therefore represents a step-change in the availability of true mobile VoIP for the mass market.
There are no hidden or monthly fees for any Truphone users and calls between ‘on net’ Truphone handsets are free, worldwide. As a launch offer to the end of the year, USA users benefit from free calls to USA and Canada, while the unique UK telecoms market enables Truphone to offer UK users calls some two billion landlines in major countries for free. All other Truphone calls from the user’s mobile are billed at characteristically low VoIP rates.
“Support for Nokia’s N80 handset brings true mobile VoIP to the mass market and gives Truphone genuine consumer appeal,” said James Tagg, Truphone’s chief executive. “Truphone routes calls entirely via the internet ensuring the lowest possible call costs to consumers whether in their home country or travelling abroad, unlike ‘calling card’ services masquerading as mobile VoIP.”
In September, Truphone announced its first download, for Nokia’s latest E-series handsets, with a promise that a download for N-series handsets would follow imminently. Support for additional Wi-Fi-enabled phones, including those built on the Windows Mobile platform, will come in due course.
Like the download for the E-series, Truphone’s N80 download is beta software. The company has opened a discussion forum at www.mobilevoipforum.org where users and developers alike are encouraged to comment, question or contribute.

Free Calls without VoIP from Freecallstomexico.com ?

freecallstomexico.com is given away free unlimited calls to some mexican cities and some other countries around the world and they are claiming they are doing it without using voip. They claim the system nicknamed Freecall uses specialized call routing much similar to that of e-fax which maked it possible for them to offer anyone anywhere in the U.S. free calls to these specific areas of the world with more on the way.
So how does it work? It’s simple: Just dial 712-338-8849. Wait for the prompt, then enter the number you wish to call in any of the areas mentioned above, and you will be instantly connected. Their gateway is in Iowa so if your long distance plan include calls to Iowa then this call will be completelly free for you.
At the moment you can call the following areas for free: To Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, The UK, Canada, China, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong (mobile), and Buenos Aires.
I have tried this service and it worked just fine with good audio quality. Even though they claim not to have used voip, i still strongly believe that they would have made use of voip technology somewhere along the line. But that does not really matter, if you call any of this destinations often just enjoy the free calls. Check out www.freecallstomexico.com for more.

Actiontec out with New 4- and 8-Port Rack-mountable PBX Gateways for Skype

Actiontec Electronics today announced the availability of VoSKY Exchange 9040 and 9080, new versions of its Skype PBX gateway for small and mid-sized businesses. The new stackable, rackmountable devices add four or eight outgoing Skype lines to the office PBX, allowing users to make and receive free and low-cost long-distance and international phone calls over the world's largest Voice over Internet Protocol network. A software upgrade also simplifies management and reporting.
VoSKY Exchange is the first Skype-certified solution that enables businesses of 10 to 300 employees to take full advantage of Skype's VoIP service. The product requires no changes to existing PBX equipment, phones or user PCs; can be installed in two hours; and allows users to make and receive Skype calls on their regular office phones instead of using a PC and headset.
The ability to integrate the Skype service into the existing PBX system, combined with the low one-time cost of VoSKY Exchange, delivers substantial savings for organizations with multiple locations, remote workers, and/or customers, partners and suppliers in other cities. Skype has no signup or monthly access fees, offers free calls between Skype users, and charges as little as 2 cents per minute for calls to non-Skype users - even for calls to overseas destinations. VoSKY Exchange can pay for itself in as little as four months.
New features in VoSKY Exchange 9040 and 9080 include:
· A stackable, rack-mountable form factor, enabling easy housing in the server rack.
· An eight-port option, allowing larger organizations to add eight outgoing Skype lines with a single gateway instead of deploying two four-port units.
· Easier connectivity, enabling a single USB port on a Windows PC to support four outgoing Skype lines rather than requiring one USB port per line.
New software features, included with Exchange 9040 and 9080 and also available as a firmware upgrade to owners of the first-generation VoSKY Exchange 9000, include:
· Call log statistics and associated reporting capabilities, including date, duration, geographical destination, and Skype or non-Skype phone number. The system can also be configured to require end users to input a special ID number for reporting purposes.
· Control of all Skype lines from a single screen, allowing administrators to determine line status and related information without opening separate windows for each line.
· Remote management, enabling a single network administrator to add or remove users, adjust settings and troubleshoot VoSKY Exchange devices in multiple offices.
· Easy export of employees' Skype speed dialing codes to removable media, simplifying setup of VoSKY Exchange in multiple offices and also providing backup/restore capabilities in the event of a system crash.
"For most businesses, the barrier to using VoIP in general and Skype in particular has been an inability to connect to the office PBX. This has caused complications ranging from the need for inbound Skype callers to have a different Skype number for each employee to difficulty in tracking all Skype-related spending in a company," said Michael Ehlenberger, Actiontec's Vice President, North America Channel Sales. "As the first and only product to solve these problems, VoSKY Exchange enables businesses to reap the full financial benefits of VoIP without changing their entire telephone infrastructure."
The new VoSKY Exchange products are being demonstrated in Booth 634 at the Internet Telephony Conference that opens today in San Diego.
Specifications and Availability Minimum system requirements for VoSKY Exchange include a PBX with up to four free FXO ports and auto attendant capability; a 2.8 GHz Pentium IV PC running Windows XP with 512 MB RAM, 400 MB free hard disk space, a CD-ROM drive and one or two available USB ports; a broadband Internet connection; and Skype's Internet calling service, which is available as a free download at www.skype.com. The product is available exclusively through VoSKY partners. For more information, visit www.vosky.com or call Actiontec Electronics at 1-866-341-3285.

SightSpeed to power AMD LIVE! Communicator

SightSpeed, the leading provider of personal video services over the Internet, has teamed up with AMD, a leading global provider of innovative microprocessor solutions, to introduce the AMD LIVE!™ Communicator powered by SightSpeed. This video conferencing application is an exciting new addition to the AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite, which is a software suite designed to help consumers enhance their AMD LIVE! PC experience.
SightSpeed and AMD have collaborated to incorporate SightSpeed’s award-winning personal video communications services in the AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite with a new video communications offering that is available free of charge from the AMD website www.amdlive.com. The AMD LIVE! Communicator powered by SightSpeed offers innovative video and voice over Internet services that leverage the performance of the AMD LIVE! PC.
“Together SightSpeed and AMD are providing consumers a fun and simple way to stay in touch with friends and family from virtually anywhere,” said Aaron Feen, director of consumer marketing for AMD. “SightSpeed’s powerful personal video over Internet solution is an outstanding addition to the AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite.”
The collaboration between AMD and SightSpeed enables consumers to use their PCs and high-speed Internet connections to conduct video calls via webcam, communicating face-to-face at the touch of a few mouse clicks. The AMD LIVE! Communicator also enables free PC to PC voice calls, the ability to place and receive calls to traditional landline and cellular phones (PSTN), pre-recorded video email messages as well as viewing downloaded television programming for personal use via SightSpeed TV.
“We are very pleased that the SightSpeed technology has been chosen to be a key addition to the AMD LIVE! Entertainment Suite,” said SightSpeed CEO Peter Csathy. “SightSpeed is considered by the experts in the media and analyst communities to be the best of breed available when it comes to personal video communications over the Internet. SightSpeed’s collaboration with industry leader AMD will expand the accessibility and opportunity to experience video communications to a far greater number of potential consumers throughout the world.”
In addition to basic free services, consumers can also upgrade to premium services by visiting www.amdlive.com or by going direct to SightSpeed’s website www.sightspeed.com . Premium services include robust capabilities such as:
* Unlimited Voice Mail Inbox
* Unlimited Video Mail Inbox
* Unlimited Multi-Party Video Conferencing with up to four simultaneous participants
* Multi-Party Text Messaging
* Personalized My SightSpeed Web Page
* Create and Save Video Mail Messages
* Detailed Call History Reporting
* Personal Video Mail Management Page
* Priority Technical Support
The AMD LIVE! Communicator is based on SightSpeed’s highly regarded latest product version, 5.0, which reflects the company’s central mission of providing the world’s best Internet video communications services. This application also includes SightSpeed’s recently released and enhanced video codec, which has raised the bar and set a new standard for personal video communications.
After installation of the AMD LIVE! Communicator, users can receive enhanced video clarity across all network conditions, while continuing to experience full 30 frames per second video, no latency, and outstanding synch of video and voice unmatched by any other service.

NetLogic partners Switchvox

NetLogic, a leader in Business Class VoIP and Internet services, and Switchvox, the premier developer of Asterisk-based IP PBX systems, today announced a strategic partnership for deployment of next generation VoIP products and services.
Under the arrangement, NetLogic has certified Switchvox SOHO and Switchvox SMB IP PBX systems to work with its VoIP Choice product. Concurrently, Switchvox has certified NetLogic’s VoIP Choice to work with its Asterisk-based systems.
“NetLogic provides and manages both data and voice together, which results in superior quality of service,” says Joshua Stephens, CEO of Switchvox. “By certifying NetLogic’s VoIP product with our IP PBX systems, Switchvox SOHO and Switchvox SMB, we can provide VoIP excellence to our combined customers.”
“Our certification ensures users of Switchvox IP PBX systems that they can enjoy voice-optimized, high quality connections,” explains Mike Morey, president of NetLogic. “Together we can provide end to end management of the VoIP connection, thereby eliminating the jitter and garble associated with many conventional VoIP deployments.”
VoIP Choice utilizes Quality of Service-based SIP trunks to provide business-class voice service. SIP trunks avoid the conversion between IP and traditional phone protocols. In many IP phone system implementations, calls are converted from the phone service provider’s network to the local IP network. This conversion point is often a source for echo and static. SIP trunks eliminate that conversion, making the internal phone system simpler and less costly, while providing superior voice quality.

PIKA Connects Asterisk to Skype

Asterisk is the most sort after open source Voip system and connecting it to Skype has a huge potential and this is exactlly what PIKA Technologies has done. PIKA Technologies has developed a channel driver to allow connectivity between the Asterisk PBX and Skype .The driver will allow applications based on Asterisk to leverage Skype to make and receive calls, with value added caller ID and DTMF detection capabilities. AllOnHost, host-based voice processing technology from PIKA, is used to connect Skype users with Windows OS to the channel driver.
This driver is part of the PIKA Connect product line and is scheduled to be released in November. This Canadian company is now leading by example by deploying its own product in its office PBX system. PIKA customers all over the world can now call in free of charge using Skype . More info about PIKA Technologies can be obtained at www.pikatech.com

JAJAH Google Gadget

The guys at Jajah are always innovating. Always trying to put jajah web-activated telephony everywhere they can, in your browser, outlook, mobile phone, and now in your personalised google homepage. The JAJAH Google gadget adds web-activated telephony to your personalized Google homepage. Google’s personalized homepage offers the ability to create your own Google homepage that gives you at-a-glance access to key information from Google and across the web. As usual its really easy to install and setup, just click the add to google button on jajah google gadget webpage and follow the directions.

Jajah Mobile Review

There is actually not so much to write about Jajah Mobile because it so easy to use. You download a small java program to your jajah enabled mobile phone, install it and you can start to enjoy web activated telephony directlly from your mobile phone. All you have to do after jajah has been installed on your phone is to enter the number you want to call and press call and you will be immediatelly be connected to your desired destination. The audio quality is really good and does not consume lots of data so no big charges on your data plan, data is only sent during the call initiation process and afterwards it becomes just another voice call.

Google Click To Call Cancelled?

This piece was first published by Om on voip.gigaom.com and since then there has been a lot of debate on the blogosphore about the authencity of this piece. Even Om made it clear that its still a story he has not convirmed. He has contacted both Google and Ebay and hoping to clear the air on this soon. Despite this, in the discussions that this story has generated a clear division in opinion could be seen. While some believe that google abandoning the click-to-call plan would be a good thing because they dont see any potential success of this plan, others believe it would be a great mistake if google should go ahead and cancel the Click-to-call because the potential of such a programm is enourmous. You can read Rich Terahni and Alec Saunders reations to this story. I also personally believe that Google should never consider cancelling click-to-call because it has great business potential that one cant even foresee at the moment. Who would have thought that adwords and adsense would be such a big success they are today or even who would have thought that search engine would grow to be a multi billion dollar business some years past. If the prospect of Google cancelling click-to-call has caused your blood pressure to rise, you can now calm down has it has now been reported that it was just a hoax. Rich Tehrani has written on his blog that somebody hacked into blogger, impersonate Google and spread the false alarm. Thank God you would say!.

Verizon's G-PON get the support of Alcatel, Motorola and Tellabs

Already delivering broadband speeds faster than most other telecom and cable compa- nies, Verizon is now set to up the ante by installing equipment from Alcatel, Motorola, and Tellabs that will dramatically increase speeds on the company’s FTTP network.
Verizon will begin deploying Alcatel equipment later this year, followed by Motorola and then Tellabs. Initial estimates are the new equipment will be increase broadband speeds by up to four times on the downstream up to eight times on the upstream. The company says that equipment from the three suppliers will support its Gigabit Passive Optical Network, or G-PON. Alcatel equipment will be installed in Verizon’s central switching offices as well as in new installations of direct fiber-optic links terminating at customers’ premises.
Motorola (news - alert) and Tellabs (news - alert) both supply electronic equipment for the current technology being deployed in Verizon’s 16-state FTTP network, known as BPON or Broadband Passive Optical Network, making them a natural partner for continued expansion of services and capabilities.
“G-PON is the next step in the evolution of the all-fiber access network,” said Paul Lacouture, Verizon’s executive vice president for network and technology. “When we first launched the nation’s only large-scale FTTP program in 2004, we said that one of the most important competitive and cost-effective features is that we could increase speed and capabilities by evolving to more advanced electronics and without having to change the fiber we had already deployed or are deploying. Today’s announcement begins to fulfill that promise.”
Not only will the three vendors’ hardware increase broadband transmission speeds via the fiber network, it also will enhance Verizon’s FiOS TV product, enhancing its VOD capabilities and paving the way for an all-IP offering. Not surprisingly, the deal also brings additional cost savings for Verizon — the company says the costs of the electronics portion of the FTTP platform will be diminished by one quarter.

New IMS-Ready NBS from Sonus

Sonus Networks announced the general availability of its new Network Border Switch (NBS). This new network element has been designed specifically to provide carrier-class IP peering and security capability to both smaller IP-based voice networks and to less densely populated regions of larger IP-based networks. The introduction of the product expands the breadth of Sonus’ IMS-ready architecture, offering both new and existing customers greater flexibility in designing their networks and offering smaller footprint solutions without sacrificing carrier-class functionality.
Unlike traditional peering and security products — like Session Border Controllers (SBCs), which some believe may be becoming outdated — Sonus’ NBS incorporates session control, PSTN gateway services, and security into a single carrier-class system. Sonus has designed its IP-based NBS to allow network operators to leverage sophisticated media handling func- tionality, IP signaling options, network privacy and protection features, and traffic control fea- tures the system offers.
In addition to bringing an integrated solution to the market, the small form factor of Sonus’ NBS should draw new customers, as they will be able to enter the market at a lower price point, yet with a solution that can scale seamlessly as needed. Like all Sonus solutions, the NBS is standards-based, leveraging IMS standards, which means existing Sonus customers can easily integrate the new NBS into their existing infrastructures.
For new competitive network operators or incumbent network operators looking to scale their networks into new regions, the NBS will facilitate increased operational and CAPEX effi- ciencies, introduce new revenue generating opportunities through media transcoding, and ensure the signaling and media security functionality required to ensure network integrity. http://www.sonusnet.com

Terremark Signs IPTV Content Agreement with Eagle Broadband

Terremark Worldwide and Eagle Broadband have signed a multi-year, renewable colocation agreement to deliver IPTV content throughout the U.S. from Terremark’s NAP of the Americas Facility. Terremark provides Tier-1 Internet exchanges and is a global provider of managed IT infrastructure solutions for the government and private sectors. Eagle is a national provider of broadband, IP and communications technologies.
Eagle chose Terremark’s NAP of the Americas to provide a secure, fail-safe connection to customers throughout the US. The NAP of the Americas will serve as the central distribution hub for Eagle’s IPTV solution. The company’s IPTV services feature direct access to more than 200 channels of high-demand programming through a mix of SD and HD settop boxes.
“This is a significant step for us in the delivery of our IPTV solution and our growth strategy for this service,” said Dave Micek, CEO of Eagle Broadband. “Terremark’s robust and secure NAP of the Americas facility is the right place for us to be as we continue to grow our business in the IPTV content delivery service market.” “As this industry trend continues to get traction, we are delighted to welcome Eagle Broadband as one of the first IPTV distributors to our facility,” said Manuel D. Medina, Chairman and CEO of Terremark Worldwide. “Eagle Broadband will be able to connect their customers to their TV content providers by leveraging TWW’s secure, redundant and scalable environment.” http://www.terremark.com , http://www.eaglebroadband.com

RadiSys to Acquire Convedia

Two companies at the forefront of emerging technologies like IMS will soon be under a single umbrella, as RadiSys Corporation (news - alert) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire privately held Convedia Corporation. RadiSys has now entered into a definitive agreement to acquire privately- held Convedia. The acquisition of Convedia will benefit both companies’ customers bringing together two sets of complementary technologies under one umbrella with an expanded team with greater scale and breadth to fully support customers’ driving needs. The combined facilities and staff will instantly expand global reach and the ability to service and support cus- tomers.
“We believe that IMS/VoIP is an important and growing market and that Convedia’s products and strong customer relationships, together with RadiSys’ ATCA leadership, creates a broader and more compelling portfolio of solutions for our customers across a larger addressable market,” said Scott Grout, RadiSys President and CEO.
The addition of Convedia will facilitate RadiSys’ penetration into the VoIP and IMS infrastructure markets and will aid in fulfilling RadiSys’ vision of providing turnkey networking platforms. Convedia’s Media Servers have been deployed at more than 200 customers around the globe, including half of the top 50 global telecommunication service providers.
The entire line of Convedia media servers will continue to be developed and enhanced under the RadiSys corporate brand. The combined firms also will leverage Convedia’s eXMP (eXtended Media Processing) software tech- nology to operate on RadiSys’ ATCA platforms, which will create even greater opportunities for the combined entity.

Mobile VoIP for Just $1 a Week from Rebtel

Have excess cell phone anytime minutes? Now you can put them to good use, thanks to a new service from Rebtel. The telecom recently launched a VoIP-based calling service offering low-cost international calls on their mobile phones. With Rebtel, users will be able to place these calls as if they were local for just a dollar a week.
“If you can make a local call on your mobile phone, you can be ‘rebbing’ within minutes for free,” said Rebtel’s president and CEO Hjalmar Winbladh. To get started, users can sign up for a Rebtel account online, where they enter their mobile phone number and the mobile phone numbers of global friends. Rebtel then instantly creates pairs of local numbers and sends them in text messages (SMS) so they can be saved in the friends’ phone address books and used to call each other from then on.
Once the account is set up, Rebtel then charges $1 per week for use of two services: REBin and REBout. With REBout, people use local numbers where they live to call anywhere in the world and only pay for the local call, plus a small per-minute fee to Rebtel. With REBin, no matter how many calls, how often or how long, there are no additional charges over Rebtel’s service fee and the cost of the local calls. http://www.rebtel.com

Video Distribution from Reliable Wireless

Ruckus Wireless has combined two growing fields, wireless and video, with its patent pending technology for reliable transmission of digital video over standards-based in-home wireless networks. Improving on the consistency and range of standard wireless connections, Ruckus goes one step further, enabling WiFi users to transmit their IPTV signal to their TV sets wirelessly. Furthermore, while service providers may be able to bring triple play services to subscribers’ homes, Ruckus’ technology enables easier distribution of the voice, video, and data services throughout the home using any standards-based 802.11 wireless connection.
In an effort to extend its market reach, Ruckus Wireless has reached an agreement whereby the Communications Supply Service Association (CSSA) will market, stock, and sell, Ruckus’ MediaFlex smart WiFi system for the home. CSSA member providers will now have easy access to some of the most compelling wireless technology available today.
“Extending next-generation, IP-based digital services in the home is a major issue for broadband providers. Ideally, a no-wire solution that is reliable enough to support IPTV is what providers and subscribers want,” said Scott Davison, vice president of strategic product develop- ment for CSSA. “Ruckus Wireless has overcome the technical obsta- cles that, up to now, effectively prohibited WiFi from serving this pur- pose in the home.”
“Our members have needed technology like this for a long, long time,” added Davison. “Solving the in-home distribution problem has been a big hurdle for providers, and we really didn’t think traditional WiFi would ever be made reliable enough.”

Sony Ericsson and Actimagine provide Video on the Move

Adding another feature to the ever evolving list of mobile applications, Sony Ericsson has now made it possible to watch full length feature films as you embark on those longer trips. Coinciding with the release of its newest smartphone, the M600i, Sony Ericsson has also launched its Mobile Cinema operation, which will make available DVD quality feature films for users to watch on their mobile devices. At the click of a button, users can be watching feature-length movies — literally anywhere — in DVD quality at 30 frames per second, while limiting power consumption. All you need to do is insert the memory card into the phone, click on the icon on the screen, and the film starts.
With French firm Actimagine’s Mobiclip codec, Sony Ericsson users achieve considerably better power consumption rates when watching video on the device, while still enjoying higher quality video. Actimagine’s technology makes it possible to watch a video clip, a concert, or even a movie with an exceptional quality of sound and picture.
In addition to its video capabilities, the M600i also is a touchscreen phone for everyday business and leisure use, with everything needed to maintain contact with friends, family, and colleagues in every way. It gives you secure push e-mail, Internet and company intranet access — when browsing the Web, users can still make and accept calls. The device can also send, receive, and edit attachments, as well as print to an available printer. What’s more, being a Symbian OS device, the M6001 is easily upgraded with addi- tional applications and tools, like navigation and personal organizer features — all of which make the M600i a device that enables total mobility…totally.

Two New BlackBerry Handsets for Australian Market from Vodafone and RIM

Vodafone and Research in Motion have launched two new BlackBerry handsets — the BlackBerry 8707v and the BlackBerry 7130v. Both handsets support push email, phone, text messaging, Internet, organ- izer, and corporate data applications, and feature a high resolution LCD screen that automatically dims or brightens, depending on where the device is being used. This “intelligent light sensing technology” (which also adjusts the back- lighting on the keyboard) is becoming popular in the PDA/smartphone market
According to the companies, the 8707v is the first UMTS-enabled BlackBerry handset that runs on Vodafone’s mobile broadband network and supports roaming internationally. The quad-band handset, which comes with a 35-key QWERTY keyboard, allows users to surf the Internet, send and receive emails, or use other mobile applications while simultaneously speaking on the phone. The 8707v can also be used as a tethered modem to enable users to access the Internet from their laptop computers.
The 7130v incorporates RIM’s SureType keyboard technology, which merges a phone keypad with QWERTY keyboard to allow a narrower design and enable users to quickly and accurately type messages and dial phone numbers. Both handhelds are supported by all BlackBerry software and services including the new BlackBerry Enterprise Server Express, which offers the same enterprise-level security, reliability, features and functionality of BlackBerry Enterprise Server v4.1 in a simple and effective solution.

Solar Powered Wireless

IR Data Corporation has introduced its SWAP900 solar wireless Access Point, making it possible to deploy large wireless networks with total independence from external power sources and data cables. The SWAP900 provides secure Internet access and interoperability with WiFi-enabled computers. The fully self contained, system makes it possible to deploy networks of hot spots over large areas on a permanent or temporary basis.
The system features a 2.4GHz, 802.11/g access point and a 913MHz radio mesh net- work — the 913MHz broadband radio provides the long range mesh network connectivi- ty, while the 2.4GHz radio provides the local network access for WiFi enabled computer users. The 913MHz radio enhanced by the use of dynamic channel coding, and modula- tion optimizations rapidly adapts to varying radio propagation conditions. This advanced radio technology greatly increases the network resiliency compared to other WiFi radio network systems.
The rugged aluminum weatherproof enclosure, solar module, and batteries are capable of 24-hour operation mounted on poles, towers, or rooftops that face the sun. Where there are trees and dense foliage, the 913MHz signals will provide much longer range connections compared to traditional WiFi-based systems. In fact, they will provide connectivity where higher frequency systems would fail. Naturally, this longer range also reduces the total number of units required per installation and, therefore, the total deployment costs. Of course, the very nature of a solar powered device also saves on energy costs, increasing the overall savings over the lifetime of the network. It also makes it possible to deploy networks where power is difficult to obtain.

Save In-Vehicle Option for Email Addicts

Intelligent Mechatronic Systems (IMS) has introduced a technology that will help those email-addicted drivers who hold up traffic to check their latest messages. The latest latest member of IMS’ telematics line, iLane, is “the world’s first hands-free and eyes-free email solution for in-vehicle use.”
This patent pending technology enables a safe and convenient voice-based alternative for accessing email messages while in transit. Rather than taking his eyes off the road to scan a message or answer a call, iLane automatically notifies the user of incoming emails and other important information by reading a brief summary in a natural sounding voice in the language of choice. The driver can then listen to the entire email message, forward or compose a response, and manage meeting requests using verbal instructions. Phone calls,SMS messages, and a number of email attachment types can also be managed via the interface.
iLane consists of a small — yet powerful — device that interacts directly with existing Bluetooth-enabled handheld devices and vehicle audio systems or headsets to read messages out loud and to listen to driver instructions. The presence of the driver is automatically detected by iLane, which then assumes control to intelligently capture and manage inbound information as soon as it arrives on the driver’s wireless email device. The driver does not need to remember to do anything differently to start taking advantage of benefits provided by iLane, which can be used via Bluetooth headsets, vehicle audio systems, or standard ear buds. Most importantly, the entire process is automatic, instantaneous, and seamless, with no buttons to push and no manual operation required. http://www.intellimec.com

Symbian Version 9.3 Released

Symbian recently announced the latest version of its operating system for mobile phones. Building on the success of its predecessors, Symbian OS v9.3 adds new enhancements to improve phone performance while reducing time-to-market for handset vendors and network opera- tors. Fully backwards compatible with previous versions in the v9 family, the new OS enables shorter start-up times for phones and key applications; improved memory management; reduced development and ownership cost; new development tools; and awareness for the Eclipse/CDT IDE framework and Nokia’s Carbide.c++.
“As the smartphone category broadens into different market segments and quickly expands across global regions, Symbian continues to focus on delivering a flexible and robust open mobile operating system,” said Jorgen Behrens, Symbian’s vice president of product management and strategy. “Symbian OS v9.3 will allow handset manufacturers and network operators to get the best and most differentiated phones to market faster, with lower costs and more easily. Approximately 35 million Symbian smartphones shipped in 2005. By providing enhanced market leading provisioning with Symbian OS v9.3 and a consumer market trend leaning towards convergence, we expect smartphone shipment numbers to increase rapidly.”
John Jackson, director of wireless/mobile technologies for Yankee Group, explained that, “as smart- phones’ functionality becomes pervasive, the handset market will be able to meet segment-specific demands rapidly, and at low cost,” Jackson said.
“The burgeoning service environment around 3G networks in many major markets places increasing demands on hand- set requirements. A robust, scalable OS and associated enabling software is crucial to vendors’ product roadmaps, and operators’ abili- ty to deploy differentiated services. Symbian OS enables significant market requirements in phone performance and hardware capabilities that allow handset manufacturers to bring more attractive differentiated phones to mar- ket more quickly.”

Phone for All

Fresh on the heels of introducing its latest RAZR and SLVR handsets, Motorola has announced the MOTOFONE, the company’s newest handset, which it says will redefine the mobile handset market by combining design and smart technology with affordability. At just nine millimeters, the MOTOFONE is Motorola’s thinnest phone yet. A flat keypad, colors, innovative materials and finish processes take elements of Motorola’s RAZR and SLVR portfolios and combine them with additional innovations to make a device that’s attractive and affordable for everyone.
MOTOFONE offers an intuitive, new interface built on icons and voice versus text. The use of imagery simplifies the device and makes it more user-friendly, especially for apprentice users, and voice prompts in local languages increase users’ comfort with their handsets, in addition to making the units easier to learn and use. Navigating menus, placing calls, and retrieving messages will be simpler than ever before. The phone’s large, high contrast screen, powered by Motorola’s ClearVision display — which leverages Electrophoretic Display (EPD) technology — helps eliminate glare from direct sunlight, making it easier to use, even outdoors and on the go. The ClearVision display, along with the flush-fitting keypad and dust-resistant design, makes the MOTOFONE sleek, yet durable enough to withstand everyday use.
Proving the premise that uncomplicated, basic functionality can go hand in hand with style, the MOTOFONE includes the features every user wants, such as polyphonic ringtones, speakerphone, and long-lasting battery life. The device also includes a very powerful ‘loud’ volume to help ensure callers can hear phone conversations and will not miss calls, even in a busy marketplace or crowded street. http://www.motorola.com

Sprint plans EV-DO Rev A Upgrade Rollout

Sprint plans to start rolling out EV-DO Revision A (Rev A) technology onto its Sprint Power Vision mobile broadband network in Q4 2006 to a footprint of 200 million people, the nation’s third largest cellular operator announced. “By accelerating our EV-DO Revision A deployment, we are expanding the number of ways our customers can use the service to make their digital life simple, instant and productive,” said Len Lauer, Sprint’s chief operating officer.
Because the newer technology boosts upload speeds fivefold higher than current rates, it is ideally suited for richer applications, such as high-speed video telephony, music on-demand, video messaging, and large file uploads. Last week, Sprint successfully completed the first Rev A data connection over the Sprint Power Vision network in San Diego. This development, combined with a series of other positive performance tests, drove the decision to speed up the deployment plan.
The Rev A upgrade is initially expected to reach coverage of more than 40 million people by year end. Sprint’s Power Vision network will be completely upgraded to the faster Rev A by the third quarter of 2007. http://www.sprint.com

AirLink Modems Gets Certification for Verizons EV-DO Network

Verizon Wireless and AirLink Communications, a developer of fixed and mobile wireless data solutions, have announced that AirLink’s line of rugged modems are certified and immediately available for use with Verizon Wireless’ BroadbandAccess service via Verizon’s EV-DO network. With the certification, Verizon customers will be able to use AirLink’s Raven Ethernet (Raven-E) and PinPoint Ethernet (PinPoint-E) modems to run their wireless data on Verizon’s robust wireless broadband net- work.
AirLink’s Raven-E and PinPoint-E are intelligent modems providing Ethernet and digital interfaces to enable a host of data-intensive, fixed and mobile broadband applications. AirLink solutions are also well-suited for a number of machine-level fixed applications in a number of vertical markets, including financial and professional services, retail and distribution, industrial and utilities. Verizon’s EV-DO network brings higher data rates to customers — typical download speeds range from 400 to 700 kbps — enabling more reliable, consistent, and efficient communications.
“AirLink’s rugged intelligent modems are the newest addition to our extensive line of devices for business customers and mobile professionals, providing greater options to stay competitive, connected and productive in today’s fast-paced business environment,” said Cindy Patterson, staff vice president of enterprise data sales at Verizon Wireless.
Airlink’s embedded operating system, ALEOS, powers both modems and provides the reliable and feature-rich embedded intelligence that enables extensive wireless capabilities, like remote monitoring and configuration, pack- et-level diagnostics, and over-the-air firmware updates. It also simplifies instal- lation, operation, and maintenance of any solution and provides the “always- on” and “always-aware” connection management today’s businesses demand.

Palm TX Handhelds Used as Learning Devices at Olathe Unified School District

In Olathe, Kansas, The Olathe Unified School District is providing 2,300 Palm TX handhelds and an equal number of keyboards to its high school students, teachers, and administrators. The handhelds — which retail for about $205 apiece — are already integral part of the district’s high school curriculum. The district is already using about 1,200 Palm handhelds as communications and learning devices.
The PDAs give staff and students access to the Internet, email, and school networks, as well as providing connections to other devices, such as phones, PCs, and printers. The devices essentially serve as a lower cost alternative to providing students and staff with laptops. Some of the handhelds will be used by students 24/7, while others will be classroom-only sets. One of the most common uses for the devices among students is writing compositions using word processing applications. Students can also use the devices to work on spreadsheets; create presentations for school projects or assignments; and access books and other documents the school has converted into the eBook format. This enables the students to highlight text, bookmark pages, make notes, and look up words in the dictionary. The handhelds also have many applications in math and science. The school district — which boasts being one of the most technologically-advanced in the U.S. — has apparently adopted the philosophy that giving students and staff the freedom to access information anywhere, anytime will open up new learning opportunities.
The school district also plans to provide WiFi access at all of its high school campuses. “Most other WiFi enabled products are out of our price range, but the Palm TX plus the keyboards purchased under Palm’s Education Purchase Plan offer us an affordable solution and a way to place the technology into more classrooms and into the hands of many more students,” she said. http://www.palm.com

SonicWALL PRO 4000 and TZ 170 Series now Avaya-Compliant

Network security systems provider SonicWALL announced that its PRO 4000 Series and TZ 170 Series Internet security appliances are now compliant with IP telephony systems from Avaya.
SonicWALL’s UTM PRO and TZ appliances provide protection against Internet threats at the network gateway. The application now is compliance-tested by Avaya for compatibility with the Avaya IP telephony suite, which comprises the Avaya Communication Manager 3.0.1 and the IP Office 3.1.
SonicWALL is also a member of the Avaya DeveloperConnection Program. “Through our membership in the DeveloperConnection program, SonicWALL under- scores its commitment to the interoperability of our solutions with leading IP telephony products from Avaya,” said Mike Valentine, vice president of Americas sales at SonicWALL. “As a result, we can provide our customers a secure VoIP solution offering the highest levels of availability, reliability and quality.”

Firetide's Software for Wireless VoIP Networks gets Upgrade

Firetide, developer of wireless multi-service mesh networks, announced it is shipping software that expands system support of simultaneous video, voice, and data applications over a wireless mesh infrastructure. The new software includes significant enhancements that enable network providers to deploy multiple devices and applications over a wireless mesh with the reliability and security they would expect over a wired network.
To provide high levels of performance, the Firetide mesh now features flow-based routing for up to 32 Mbps throughput as well as a comprehensive set of new bandwidth metrics, including link quality and capacity, link type, and hop count, to enable flexible management and intelligent routing decisions. Load balancing, static routing, and broadcast containment round out the performance enhancements.
To provide enhanced transmission quality, Firetide’s expanded QoS and prioritization optimize the network for multi-service offerings, including latency sensitive voice and video applications. Firetide also has added WPA2 encryption, digital certificates, firmware signatures, and expanded password protection as added security measures to protect cus- tomers’ networks. Finally, in an effort to improve mobility, Firetide’s mobile mesh nodes can now roam seamlessly throughout a Firetide mesh with no packet loss or handoff delay. “What our customers need and are now looking for is something beyond basic WiFi data mesh networks,” said Firetide CEO Bo Larsson. “They need secure, flexible, wireless solutions that are easy to install and manage and work with even more demanding applications, such as high speed video and voice over IP.”

Two New VoIP and IPTV Patents for Telchemy

Voice and VoIP performance manager Telchemy announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office awarded the company two additional patents for its VoIP and IPTV performance monitoring and analysis technology. The patents allow for service quality monitoring systems that estimate subjective quality, also known as Quality of Experience (QoE) for VoIP, IPTV, and Videoconferencing services.
The algorithms described in these patents provide more accurate and stable performance metrics in the presence of time varying and transient impairments. Patent US 7,075,981, dubbed “Dynamic Quality of Service Monitor,” covers VoIP and IPTV performance monitoring systems that represent the effects of the relative temporal location of transmission impairments on user perceived quality.
“Per-Call Quality of Service Monitor for Multimedia Communications System,” patent US 7,058,048, covers VoIP and IPTV performance monitoring systems that measure call quality at discrete time intervals and combine these to form overall perceptual quality scores for each call.
“Telchemy continues to grow and innovate in this rapidly expanding marketplace,” said Alan Clark, Telchemy’s CEO and president. “These new patents illustrate our commitment to keeping our products on the leading edge of IP communications technology.” http://www.telchemy.com

Voxeo Acquires VoiceReady

IVR and VoIP platform provider Voxeo announced its acquisition of VoiceReady, a privately held company that provides a Web-based graphical design and reporting system. VoiceReady’s offering enables the delivery and management of VoiceXML and VoIP-based telephony applications. The company will become part of Voxeo’s Evolution family, with an August 30 re-launch under the name “Evolution Designer.”
Voxeo’s (news - alert) new product enables “Do it Yourself” or “Customer Self Service” delivery of speech, VoIP, and IVR applications. A non-technical interface allows users to quickly build, deploy, and manage telephony applications. Evolution Designer will be available at no charge to more than 21,000 members of Voxeo’s Evolution Community developer program.
“The VoiceReady platform incorporates extensive speech application best practices, learned by our team over the course of five years of voice application development,” said VoiceReady’s CEO, John Amein.
Amein continued: “Evolution Designer brings this experience to Voxeo’s existing developer base and to new users who have never built a speech application before.” http://www.voxeo.com

NMS' Voice Technology is being selected by Comverse for its InSight System

Comverse, a provider of software and systems that enable multimedia network-based enhanced services, has selected NMS Communications’ Open Access platform as the underlying voice technology for its InSight value-added services environment. Comverse Selects NMS’ Voice Technology for its InSight System
Comverse’s InSight is an open system providing next generation messaging, content and billing services - all integrated into a single, low-cost platform. These services can be tailored to help service providers increase revenues, strengthen customer loyalty and improve operational efficiency. Currently, more than 450 service providers in more than 125 countries are using Comverse’s messaging, billing and, content solutions.
NMS’ Open Access family of boards and software helps developers create next-genera- tion multimedia applications for service providers. Whether it is live, streaming two-way video; speech-enabled call centers; VoIP conferencing; or prepaid call processing, Open Access lets developers create innovative products that take advantage of FMC networks and allow service providers to deliver advanced solutions to their customers. Open Access delivers media processing and network signaling solutions for creating enhanced voice, data, and video applications and services. These open, scalable, high-density building blocks give developers the processing power and capacity needed to rapidly develop an everincreasing array of next-generation services.
“Many of the world’s major equipment providers use our Open Access technology to dramatically reduce time-to-market for their voice, data and video solutions,” said John Orlando, chief marketing officer for NMS. http://www.comverse.com http://www.nmscommunications.com

The New Bradon TEchnologies Codec to Compete with GIPS

A tiny Canadian company has developed an innovative Windows-based codec technology that serves as the basis of a desktop VoIP conferencing application that offers 100 percent live, full duplex, two-way voice communications.
The solution was developed by Bradon Technologies of Toronto. The technology, which is called Bradon Technologies Audio Codec or simply BTAC, is a frame-independent codec that competes with other technologies including the Internet Low Bit Rate (iLBC) codec developed by Global IP Sound (GIPS), which is used in Google Talk and Skype.
Because BTAC uses extremely low overhead, Bradon Technologies has been able to develop the Simultaneous Audio Video Interactive Internet (SAVii) Desk meeting software and Live presentation application to be very lightweight. In fact, the meeting host application is only 265Kb while the client/participant software is only 289Kb in size.
Bradon’s SAViiDesk version 2.5 with iPBX integration bridges online participants with callers from standard PSTN lines. The latest version also can be used on most PDAs running Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003 SE or Microsoft Windows Mobile Version 5.0 for Pocket PC.
“Our proprietary voice technology based on BTAC voice codec ensures that all event members continue to receive the exceptional audio quality as well as the visuals they are accustomed to,” Bradon’s president Joe Compta said. http://www.bradontechnologies.com

MicroTCA is Now an Official Standard

A consortium of the world’s largest industrial computer manufacturers has officially ratified a new hardware specification known as MicroTCA that potentially extends interoperability in the communications sector beyond the network’s core.
The PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturers Group (PICMG), which is home to the AdvancedTCA (ATCA) and CompactPCI specs, announced the new smaller form factor after 18 months of development from over 95 participating companies. The biggest advantage MicroTCA offers is the fact that it uses the same Advanced Mezzanine Card (AMC) daughter cards that are used on ATCA boards, allowing for greater cost efficiencies.
“We see MicroTCA and ATCA being very complementary with a shared objective of allowing customers to build modular communications platforms from a building block approach,” said Tim Kober, Director of Strategic Platform Planning at Intel’s Communications Infrastructure Group.
The smaller implementations of the MicroTCA form factor enable customers to make use of AMCs even if the larger, more expensive ATCA chassis is cost-prohibitive or prohibitive due to spatial constraints. The new spec was designed with all of the high availability and manageability features of its larger sister spec. And because MicroTCA doesn’t require as large of a footprint as AdvancedTCA, it is ideally suited for access and edge applications in telecom networks and may well extend into other applications including medical, industrial control and military. For example, Alliance Systems is currently developing a base station designed on the MicroTCA form factor using a WiMAX radio network controller. http://www.picmg.org

Thomson Certifies Patton’s SmartNode VoIP CPEs

Patton-Inalp Networks has announced that its SmartNode brand of VoIP routers has been certified by Thomson for interoperability with Thomson’s Cirpack brand softswitches. The certification assures carrier customers of a smooth migration as they move from multiple legacy infrastructures to fully converged IP-based voice and data services.
Patton has actively sought softswitch interoperability for both its SmartNode and SmartLink families of VoIP and triple play platforms via its own Interoperability Program, which acknowledges third-party softswitches that passed tests proving they work with Patton’s equipment — primarily in the area of live carrier deployments. Patton certified switch manufacturers include the likes of Siemens, Alcatel, Tekelec, and BroadSoft. Likewise, several softswitch vendors have also certified Patton’s VoIP platforms for interoperability, including, now, the Cirpack brand.
“Without question, SmartNode is the most interoperable Voice over IP platform in the world,” said Burton A. Patton, Patton’s Executive Vice President. “This Swiss-developed VoIP technology not only has unmatched features, but, unlike most VoIP gateways, is highly adaptable and configurable for any deployment scenario, with any Softswitch or IP PBX.”
With solutions ranging from two POTS or BRI lines up to multiple T1/E1 PRIs, a SmartNode solution can be found for deployments of nearly all sizes — from a single platform. SmartNode products are designed with the future of the communications industry in mind, capable of supporting new advanced products as they emerge. In addition to being SIP-compliant, SmartNode supports H.323, T.38 Fax relay, Fax bypass, modem bypass, Voice over VPN, AES/DES-IPSec voice encryption, and DownStream QoS. http://www.patton.com ,http://www.cirpack.com

rPath’s rBuilder Integrated by Digium

rPath, a provider of a platform for creating and maintaining Linux software appliances, today announced that Digium, the creator of Asterisk, is now an rBuilder and rPath Linux partner.
Powered by the rPath platform, the Asterisk Business Edition now has built-in Linux distribution features, which allow Digium’s (news - alert) customers to immediately install the necessary OS components within the Digium Business Edition platform. “When we first began speaking with rPath, Asterisk Business Edition customers were required to install specific Linux packages,” said Jim Webster, director of software technologies for Digium.
Webster added: “Using rBuilder Online, Digium was able to incorporate customized Linux distribution capabilities in less than a week, automating customer installation. We would not have been able to do this without the support of the rPath team.”
The upgraded release of Asterisk Business Edition includes enhanced security and scalability provided by Ranch Networks’ Asterisk security code, speech recognition capabilities through the LumenVox Speech Engine, text-to-speech applications through the Cepstral Text-to-Speech System and a customized Linux distribution to simplify installation. http://www.digium.com, http://www.rpath.com

Anue Systems Patners Spirent Communications

In order to ensure that QoS and QoE are properly delivered, service providers are increasingly relying on testing solutions, such as those offered by Spirent Communications. Spirent delivers “high performance impairment emulation solutions,” which means it conducts tests on networks by “simulating” peak traffic periods and other events that could cause disruptions in service.
In order to expand and improve its testing solutions, Spirent announced is teaming up with Anue Systems, (news - alert) which offers network emulation solutions for Ethernet, SONET/SDH and Fiber Channel environments. As a result of the partnership, Spirent will be better positioned to assist network equipment manufacturers and service providers with QoS and QoE issues across converged networks.
Using Spirent’s TestCenter and Abacus test systems, Anue’s network emulators are able to address the various challenges and scenarios of converged network services by simulating network delays, jitters, and other impairments. By running critical applications through an emulated environment, service providers can accurately assess and ensure performance of their services, equipment and applications, prior to service launch.
Spirent’s solution addresses voice, video and data applications load testing; voice and video quality measurements; Real-Time Protocol (RTP) with IPTV tests; testing of content such as unicast and multicast video and channel change times; Dynamic IP network impairment tests; and, testing of all elements of Carrier Ethernet infrastructure. It also enables large-scale emulation of IP Telephony systems, customer premise devices (CPE) such as settop-boxes, cable/DSL modems, passive optical network (PON) optical network units (ONUs)/optical network terminals (ONTs) and other devices.http://www.spirentcom.com, http://www.anuesystems.com

Sigma Media Processors are being used for IPTV Deployments by New Telco Operators

A number of new telco operators in Europe are now using the SMP8630 series media processors from Sigma Designs for IPTV deployments. T-Online, a division of Deutsche Telekom, Neuf Cegetel, and AOL France are each using the processors in a number of difference deployments.
T-Online, which offers triple-play services, is using the processors along with software technology from Microsoft to deliver its T-Home services to Cisco IP set-top boxes based on the Sigma media processor. The services support the Microsoft TV IPTV Edition software platform and the Cisco T-Home X 300T Media Receiver enables high-definition IPTV and PVR and dual DVB-T tuner functionality.
Neuf Cegetel is also offering a high-definition video service, delivered over ADSL and TNT and based on the Neuf TV HD set-top box, which using the Sigma media processor. AOL France is in the process of launching a new ADSL-based digital television services using the Netbox HD from Netgem and featuring the Sigma media processor. The hybrid set-top box connects to ADSL and digital terrestrial television to receive services in standard and HD.
“Sigma and its partners have worked closely together to achieve a stable high performance IPTV platform and we are excited to see these deployments take off at multiple telco carriers,” said Ken Lowe, vice president of strategic marketing, Sigma Designs. “We are eager to continue building on this foundation and witness this trend-setting success in Europe and other parts of the world.” http://www.sigmadesigns.com

The New PC-to-Mobile 3G Solution from RADVISION

RADVISION has announced the availability of its new PC-to-Mobile 3G solution. The new solution is designed to transform PCs into mobile handsets through the opening of a bi-directional channel for visual communication between 3G mobile devices and desktops. The PC-to-Mobile solution is intended to exponentially increase the 3G subscriber base to include PCs, immediately expanding 3G video call possibilities.
The solution offers an easy solution for mobile operators to offer 3G visual communications to subscribers on desktops and laptops in addition to 3G handsets. PC-to-Mobile permits operators to immediately increase the critical mass of 3G enabled handsets, encouraging and developing a larger community of 3G users and expanding the boundaries of peerto-peer visual communications 3G networks. The PC-to-Mobile solution is positioned as offering a new level of 3G service to both the enterprise and consumer markets. In order to enable the service on any desktop, the generic platform comes with a downloadable, branded client. Operators can then strengthen and differentiate their mobile offering.
Firewall and proxy issues can also be solved with the RADVISION solution without compromising audio or video quality. The PC-to-Mobile 3G offering is intended to ensure users experience easy, intuitive visual communications from the desktop or 3G Mobile device with features that include dialing using personal contact lists, flexible multiple video layouts and easy session control.
RADVISION is promoting its extensive experience in the desktop and mobile video communications arena as the solution offers operators high scalability and availability as well as full integration with back-end systems and third-party applications and services. This element will ensure interoperability between the desktop and all types of 3G handsets and mobile devices. http://www.radvision.com

Covergence Now part of the SS8 Alliance Program

SIP applications developer Covergence announced that it has joined the SS8 Networks (news - alert) Acceler8 Alliance Program, a partner program to shorten market implementation time for lawful intercept compliance for service providers and telecommunications equipment providers globally.
Under CALEA, the FCC mandated that all technologies offered by providers of broadband and interconnected VoIP must accommodate law enforcement wiretaps. Lawful intercept systems will soon become a requirement for service providers and equipment vendors, such as Covergence, to meet these standards.
“Our goal when creating the SS8 Networks Acceler8 Alliance Program was to deliver best-in-class Lawful Intercept solutions to our customer and Covergence clearly is a great addition to the program,” said Steve Gleave, vice president of marketing for SS8 Networks.
“With the FCC mandated compliance date rapidly approaching, Acceler8 Partners provide a compelling, fully interoperable solution set that enables carriers to quickly meet the requirements.” By joining the Acceler8 Alliance Program, Covergence will be able to make its Eclipse family of SIP-based products meet regulatory compliance. Adding integration capabilities with SS8’s Xcipio lawful intercept platform into the Eclipse product family will extend Eclipse’s ability for policy-based call control, recording and monitoring for large enterpris es, and can be deployed as part of a lawful intercept system.
“Our Eclipse already has built-in capabilities for monitoring and recording all voice, data and video traffic across IP networks, so our membership in this alliance program is a natural extension of our existing capabilities,” said Ken Kuenzel, CTO, founder and vice president of engineering for Covergence. www.covergence.com, http://www.ss8.com

Onvoy Converged IP Services Becomes “Avaya Compliant”

Communications solutions provider Onvoy has announced that its suite of Converged IP Services is compliant with IP telephony and SIP solutions from Avaya. Onvoy’s Converged IP Services solution with SIP trunking allows businesses to connect to the public phone network virtually, thus improving voice quality and offering a flexible, cost-saving alternative to traditional telephony.
Onvoy’s services have been tested for compliance and compatibility with Avaya (quote news - alert) Communication Manager 3.1 and Avaya SIP Enablement Services 3.1, in addition to various Avaya media service, gateways, and endpoints.
“Open standards are critical for growth,” said Janice Aune, chairman and CEO of Onvoy. “Compliance with Avaya solutions ensures our customers will benefit from open standards and are able to incorporate new technology innovations easily and cost-effectively.” http://www.onvoy.com, http://www.avaya.com

TelePlus plan VoIP Service Deployment and TelTel Enables Digitrad

SIP-based Internet telephony service provider TelTel announced that it will enable Digitrad (news - alert) and TelePlus to rapidly offer VoIP service over TelTel’s Public SIP Telephony Network (PsipTN). TelePlus will offer VoIP via the PsipTN thanks to a relationship with Digitrad, who is a TelTel SIP Virtual Network Operator (SVNO) partner. The addition of VoIP service would enhance TelePlus’ service offering for its core product, Vocalyz.
The product bundles lower priced international long distance calling with a 24/7 live private assistant, who functions as a translator, concierge, or emergency dispatch, in the user’s native language. TelePlus will offer Vocalyz by providing its customers a branded TelTel softphone over the PsipTN, and access to TelTel’s suite of services including, presence, Instant Voice, Instant Text, and call forwarding.
Vocalyz and its new services are bundled through Digitrad’s integrated GSM billing and IVR platform, Stand4U, in order for Vocalyz users to continue using the wireless local number, Teleplus services and the leftover account balances from the travel cell phone through the branded TelTel softphone.
“Extending our relationship with TelTel to the Teleplus Group and its customers reflects our confidence in the PsipTN network,” stated Micha Benoliel, president and CEO of Digitrad. “Tying together TelePlus’s value-added services and TelTel’s softphone through our Stand4u integrated billing platform, creates the opportunity for Digitrad, TelePlus and TelTel alike to enjoy new revenue streams. This deployment also demonstrates how easy it is for our Stand4u platform to operate across various telecom environments including GSM and SIP.” http://www.teltel.com, http://www.digitrad.com, http://www.teleplus.com

Globe7 Releases Version 3 of its Softphone , Still Beta

VoIP-based calling service provider Globe7 announced the launch of a new version of its desktop software for communications, video and news applications. Globe7’s softphone includes real-time, free voice communications; video streaming; 1 GB of free storage space for video and photos; and news feeds. Users of the SIP-based software get a U.S. telephone number that allows them to make and receive telephone calls from any computer, cell phone, or landline.
Globe7’s video features allow users to search for video from categories including entertainment, latest news, and sports; as well as pulling images from an extensive library aggregated from various newswires and video content providers. The technology also allows users to upload and share their own video, images and presentations on 1 GB of space that is provided to them for free. By watching favorite video feeds (e.g. latest news, movie trailers, and music videos), users get the opportunity to earn free international and local voice minutes. http://www.globe7.com

Accolade SCIM Platform for SIP/IMS Connectivity

Convergin has announced its Accolade convergence Service Capabilities Interaction Management (SCIM) platform, which offers functionality for wireline carriers with networks containing both legacy and next-generation equipment. The platform enables connec- tivity of softswitches and IMS call session control functions with legacy services.
The Accolade enables a number of legacy services to be extended toward IMS, including toll-free calls, local number portability, calling name database, and information database. The SCIM function enables interaction among IMS service platforms, and the Accolade also extends SCIM beyond the IMS domain for convergence between legacy and next-generation networks in addition to wireless and wireline networks.
The SCIM capabilities enable carriers that roll out VoIP networks to deliver the same services available in their legacy networks. ILECs may also expand their offerings to host services for CLECs, MSOs or VoIP-based long-distance operators. Additional features include the ability to issue SIP queries toward legacy wireline AIN/INAP services, enabling SS7 services to be delivered to SS7/TDM switches as well as next-generation softswitches and IMS/SIP CSCFs.
Operators may enable SIP access to existing SCP-based services and can also control access to those services from a number of switching platforms and service providers. Additionally, the platform may later be used to enhance service offerings to permit SIP-based services and SIP/IMS application servers. http://www.convergin.com

CommuniGate Systems' VoIP and Sip Services Upgraded

CommuniGate Systems has announced its “Trade In and Trade Up” program to enable carriers to upgrade to new value-added services including VoIP, SIP/XMPP secure IM, and hosted PBX. The program will enable carriers to trade in legacy email software, saving on support and maintenance services. They may then “trade up” to replace antiquated messaging systems and offer a full suite of IP communications solutions.
CommuniGate’s initiative will enable service providers to smoothly migrate their communications services to an IMS-ready platform. It is targeted toward providers that have customers unable to access SIP-based IP communications networks because their email solutions use legacy technology.
Carriers may choose which features of the CommuniGate Pro suite they wish to deploy. The modules offered include SIP Proxy, Session Border Controller (SBC), IP PBX, clustered voice through a SIP Farm, audio conferencing, XMPP support and voice mail.
“The feedback we are receiving is tremendous as the world is now adopting SIP based Communications. Mobility and productivity will rise and traditional closed and location locked access will die,” said Jon Doyle, vice president of business development for CommuniGate.
He added that, “We will witness a fundamental change in the communications land- scape over the next five years just as we saw in the early 90s with email becoming the communication standard medium for business,” added Doyle. “Holding users to a location with a phone number, or charging them for roaming to other locations will soon be replaced with the mobility and portability of VoIP — where one address finds a person anywhere, anytime.” http://www.communigate.com

Companies Can Now Improve Contact Center Effectiveness with Amcat's Soft IP PBX

Customer care and interaction solution vendor Amcat announced that is has begun shipping a soft IP PBX solution that operates with and broadens the capabilities of its Contact Center Suite product. Amcat’s customers can now achieve the cost benefits of VoIP while transform their customer contact operations by leveraging the entire enterprise, regardless of department, function or location.
Amcat CEO Mike Rohleder commented, “In the past, companies often relegated cus- tomer service to a specific team of people, often in a single location. Historically it’s been difficult or impossible to provide a seamless service experience for the customer because poor processes and expensive, inflexible technology required the customer to call back or needlessly repeat information.”
The new IP-based soft PBX customer contact platform provides a technology environment where each customer contact is intelligent and productive, leading to a higher rate of first call resolution — which, in turn, raises employee moral and heightens customer satisfaction. The Amcat IP customer contact platform ensures that companies are appropriately focused on providing superior customer care and that their business goals are centered on achieving that goal — with a lower cost base. The result is increased customer acquisition and retention, which drive increase revenue.
“Amcat is extending the boundaries of what is possible for businesses today by integrating a software-based IP PBX into our contact center solutions. We recognize that the customer experience should not be handled by a contact center silo. Our aim is to turn the entire enterprise into ‘the contact center,’ making it more likely that a customer’s request will be resolved on the first call,” added Rohleder. http://www.amcat.com

Speaker Verification Biometrics from Nuance to Increase Security

Answering to the need for contact centers to secure their self-service telephone applications, Nuance Communications has developed a speaker verification solution for telephone voice self-service applications that uses biometric security to authenticate callers by recognizing each unique caller based on their voice.
The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) has requested multi-factor authentication technologies for Internet-based services before the end of the year. With telephone-based authentication next in line, many banks have stepped up to the plate to incorporate Nuance’s biometric speaker verification solutions into their voice self-service applications.
“With 16 speaker verification patents and a market leadership position for delivering custom solutions, we are well-positioned to meet the growing need for this vertical market,” commented Peter Mahoney, vice president, worldwide marketing, Nuance. Speaker authentication requires only a voice and a telephone to authenticate a person’s identity, unlike other biometric solutions such as fingerprints, iris scans, and facial recognition technologies that are far more expensive and intricate. Nuance’s speaker verification solutions capture a callers voice based on the way they say speak their name and ID number, then analyze the voice to create a voiceprint that is stored in the systems database for verification each time the caller calls. Voiceprints use a pattern of numbers that measure the behavioral and physical characteristics of the caller’s voice. The system is also able to identify voices with changes due to colds, noisy backgrounds, or other changes, as well as safeguard against impersonations and pre-recorded voices played back over the telephone. “Speaker verification is a natural fit for phone-based applications because the system can be seamlessly integrated into the existing self-service experience of the caller,” commented Mahoney.
“Because of its convenience and ease of use, it may be perceived that voice is less accurate than other biometrics, but third-party research has proven that voice biometrics meet or exceed fingerprint, iris and facial scanning systems.” http://www.nuance.com

HEAT 8.4 from FrontRange

The latest version of HEAT Service & Support is now available from FrontRange Solutions. The global IT service management, voice application, and customer relationship management (CRM) solution provider has released the fully customizable Help Desk and external customer support tool that logs and tracks issues through completion.
HEAT 8.4 features enhanced and improved functions based on HEAT 8.38 in combination with brand new streamlined technology and additional automation. The Call Logging Dashboard, the newest feature to HEAT, provides a one-stop location for common views and metrics while allowing individual users to add hyperlinks to personal call groups for quick access to incident records based on commonly used search criteria.
The Metrics Section provides end users access to popular Help Desk metrics. A new Administration Navigation Dashboard has also been added to enable the administrator to quickly locate information and functions with a few simple clicks.
Available to new customers, HEAT 8.4 is also accessible to current users on maintenance as an upgrade. HEAT 8.4 also includes enhancements that provide for the ability to run Auto Ticket Generator as a Windows NT Service, allowing for greater functionality on any computer. Other enhancements include improved layouts, better navigation controls and redesigned icons that simplify the new interface, which in turn simplifies the workflow, as well as ramp time for new users. http://www.frontrange.com

Genesys Voice Platform to Alleviate Call Center Problems

Genesys Telecommunications Laboratories wants to put an end to non- interoperability issues and a host of other call center and customer service problems. The company is gearing up for the release of the latest version of its Genesys voice platform, which it bills as a major shift away from proprietary interactive voice response systems (IVRs).
According to Brian Bischoff, global vice president for platform sales and solutions at Genesys, the system is a logical next step for companies that are being forced to replace aging IVR equipment, most of which are losing manufacturer support over the next 18 months. The Genesys system leverages the VoiceXML standard to bridge the gap between voice and data platforms that reside in most call centers.
“What makes this a next-generation platform is that it allows enterprises to bring voice services to applications already developed for the web,” Bischoff said.
While this eliminates the need for customers to repeat information over the phone, it also opens up numerous sales and marketing opportunities for the enterprise. Companies could use customer information from the web to present a range of menus for up-selling or cross-selling any number of applicable products. And whether the customer is using the telephone or a PC, they are dealing with a single application. “Our platform allows you to have a voice browser, rather than a PC browser, to exploit those applications,” Bischoff said. “So there is a common development team and the customer gets a common experience.”

VoIP Services for Time Warner Cable Expanded

Sprint Nextel has agreed to let Time Warner Cable’s VoIP signals to ride over its IP network in an additional 14 service areas, signifying strengthening of the existing relationship between the two companies. Sprint’s network passes 28 million homes in the United States; Time Warner’s Cable VoIP will ride the network in every state the network serves, with the exception of New Hampshire and Maine, where the voice service will continue to be delivered via Time Warner’s cable network.
Specifically, Sprint Nextel will provide interconnection facilities between Time Warner Cable’s switch and the public telephone network for local and long-distance calling, as well as E911 management, new and ported management, directory assistance, operator services and a full suite of other local exchange carrier services.
VoIP calls which originate on the Time Warner Cable network will first travel to its regional data centers before being terminated on the Sprint Nextel nationwide network. Sprint claims Time Warner’s customers won’t be able to tell the difference. Sprint Nextel continues to lease out space on its network backbone, as well as providing telephony solutions to cable operators. The network now carries the signals of 1.2 million cable VoIP subscribers across more than 1,100 rate centers. Sprint Nextel says it plans to increase this number to 2.5 million subscribers in the near future. The company says it is finding its relationship with the cable industry highly lucrative. http://www.sprint.com http://www.timewarnercable.com

Best Buy to Sell Software for NetZero Voice and PrivatePhone

United Online, a leading provider of consumer Internet and media services, announced that the software for its popular NetZero Voice and PrivatePhone services is now being distributed through Best Buy stores.
As per the distribution agreement, consumers can get the NetZero service at a special rate of $9.95 per month — a five dollar savings off the regular price — when they pick up a free CD containing the software at Best Buy stores across the U.S. In addition, the first month of the NetZero service will be free for those who sign up through Best Buy.
PrivatePhone demo CDs will be distrib- uted as well.
“Best Buy was our first major retail distribution partner back in 2003,” said Mark R. Goldston, United Online chair- man and CEO. We are proud to be extending our relationship with them to offer PrivatePhone.com and NetZero Voice in Best Buy stores. This partner- ship is a perfect fit because, like United Online, Best Buy is committed to giving consumers quality products and servic- es at a reasonable price.”
PrivatePhone.com offers a free phone number and voicemail that allows users to protect their privacy. Users of the service can pick their own number from most U.S. area codes and can use it instead of their home or mobile phone number as a way to screen calls. All calls go directly to voicemail, which can be checked either by phone or through the Web-based PrivatePhone.com message center.
http://www.netzerovoice.com , http://www.bestbuy.com

VoIP Inc.’s Call Termination Service to be used by Global Connect

Global Connect, a Web-based voice broadcasting company, has selected VoIP Inc. as its VoIP service provider. The reseller deal means Global Connect will use VoIP Inc.’s (news - alert) VoiceOne Termination Service to handle its current call volume, which, during peak traffic periods, exceeds 36 calls per second.
“This is an important win for VoIP Inc.,” said Gary Post, president and CEO of VoIP, Inc. “Voice broadcasting is a huge business serving the entertainment, political, retail, education, collections, emergency services, insurance, and other industries, and it is being revolutionized by VoIP technology. We are thrilled to be working with Global Connect in this growing industry.”
Adrian Patten, Global Connect’s director of technology, said it is critical for his business to be able to handle large call volume concurrently without failure. “This is a common struggle for many VoIP vendors. However, VoIP Inc. has proven its ability to manage thousands of concurrent calls with ease, with an extremely high success rate. Besides offering superior technology, we are also impressed by the VoIP Inc. team’s flexibility, customer service, and willingness to get the job done right.”
http://www.gc1.com, http://www.voipincorporated.com

Ambassador Technical Services Partners Sphere and Adtech

Sphere Communications and Adtech Global Solutions, joint providers of the Sphere Business Communications System IP PBX (Sphere BCS), have added a new certified partner to their network: Ambassador Technical Services Incorporated.
Ambassador is a full-service provider of IP telephony, video teleconferencing, and data recovery systems. The company will be focusing its marketing of Sphere BCS to small and medium-sized businesses.
“The adaptability and durability of the Sphere BCS make it an ideal platform for us to build our business on,” Ambassador’s founder and president Mike Thom said. “We can now deliver customized IP telephony solutions offering enterprise-class features at prices our SMB customers can afford.”
Sphere’s BCS is “a modular, business-class IP telephony and unified communications system that is flexible, easy to use, and easy to manage.” Key features include:

• Onscreen point-and-click call management
• User-defined intelligent call routing
• Multiple auto-attendants
• Departmental call center capabilities
• Desktop video conferencing
• Text messaging
• Unified email / voice mail messaging
• Smart directories with presence
• Integrated softphone for mobile and remote workers
• Call recording and more
• SIP interface for easy integration with business applications

New Telecommunications Partner Program Launched by Red Hat

Shifting its focus to include the development of open source software for telecommunications, Red Hat has launched a Telecommunications Partner Program.
According to the company, the program aims to raise awareness about the availability of open source platforms for telecommunications and to promote Red Hat’s products. The program is designed strengthen Red Hat’s existing relationships with leading network equipment providers (NEPs), OEMs, telecommunications ISVs and operators.
The move makes sense, since the telecommunications industry is now starting to embrace integrated Linux hardware and software platforms targeting telcos’ specific needs. Network applications are largely being viewed as a new cash cow for software developers, and Red Hat and its partners know they stand to gain from this. Numerous partners, including HP and IBM, have already committed to the effort. Red Hat said it will be working with both firms to build carrier-grade equipment with Red Hat Enterprise Linux. The partners will promote the open source gear as an alternative to proprietary telecommunications platforms.
As part of the program, Red Hat also plans to provide services and support to software developers to encourage them to adopt open source alternatives. IBM, which partners with Red Hat on other projects as well, will include Red Hat applications as part of its Platform for Telecom initiative. http://www.redhat.com

TELUS Corporation Partners Amp’d Mobile to Provide New Service

Canadian telecommunications firm TELUS Corporation has announced an exclusive relationship with Amp’d Mobile that will bring the Amp’d brand north of the border. The deal will bring Amp’d Mobile’s interactive, customized mobile services to Canadian customers via TELUS’ high speed wireless network. In the U.S., Amp’d operates on Verizon’s EV-DO network. The agreement with TELUS represents Amp’d Mobile’s inaugural expansion outside U.S. borders.
Amp’d Mobile will avail its Canadian audience of the MVNO’s highly personalized mobile wireless content, including music, 3D gaming, live sports action, downloadable as well as streaming video and music, and much more, not to mention cellular phone functionality. When the service goes into effect early next year, subscribers will be able to access the latest, trendiest entertainment services and products on handsets that feature the latest technology and fast download speeds.
While Amp’d will provide content from its more than 200 partners for the service, TELUS’ role will include sales and distribution, billing, client service, network maintenance, and pricing — everything a carrier would normally do to ensure its subscribers have the best possible mobile experience.

Skype and GIPS Partnership Extended

Voice processing technology provider Global IP Sound (GIPS) announced it has extended its partnership with Skype to enable hardware manufacturers to offer Skype-compatible IP phones. The new hardware systems will use GIPS’ Voice Engine Embedded. Skype has licensed GIPS products in the past, including VoiceEngine PC.
“Skype has clearly revolutionized global personal communica- tions with its offering,” said GIPS president and CEO Gary Hermansen. “This latest step in our relationship helps to solidify this growing market by expanding the options for Skype-enabled hard- ware devices and the ability for consumers to have a consistent, high-quali- ty user experience regardless of platform.”

Babble.net Introduces the BabbleStick

Babble.net, Britain’s popular Web-based VoIP provider, has introduced the BabbleStick, a portable USB device that enables Babble users to make calls from any PC or laptop.
The BabbleStick allows users to make free or low cost calls over the Internet without the need for downloading software. The 256MB USB memory stick comes preloaded with Babble’s SIP-based VoIP software, which downloads automatically when the stick is installed in a USB port. The portable stick, which comes with a small headset and microphone, can be ordered from the online shop at Babble for £19.99.
“Consumers now have the best cost-effective solution for calling friends and family while away from home,” said Allan Howes, CEO of Babble. “The included headset acts as a speaker and microphone, meaning you can make free phone calls from practically any Internet café in the world. The system is so easy to use — you just plug in and go.” The BabbleStick lets users can carry their account information — including their con- tacts, settings, and preferences — with them everywhere they go. The device does not leave any personal information behind on a computer.
“Our BabbleStick is a convenient, simple communication tool designed for use by anyone — it’s an excellent addition to our brand,” Howe said. “It will allow us to reach a new audience and we are very excited by its prospects.” Because it is SIP-based, Babble works with any SIP-compliant software package, such as X-Lite or SJPhone. It also works with various hardware devices, including IP phones and ATAs from the likes of Cisco, Linksys, Grandstream, snom, and Zyxel. http://www.babble.net

Latest Special Offer from 8x8 Designed to Lure More Consumers to VoIP

As many service providers have learned in recent years, the key to driving consumer adoption of VoIP is to make the transition as seamless as possible. The bottom line is, consumers don’t want to have to radically change their calling habits just to save a few bucks. They don’t want to have to sit down at their PC in order to make a call — nor do they wish to have “extra steps” involved when initiating a call from a handset. From the standpoint of the average consumer, using VoIP should be every bit as simple as using traditional telephone service — yet, in many cases, it is not.
Recognizing this, 8x8, provider of the Packet8 VoIP service, is making strides in simplifying the process of switching to VoIP for consumers. The company announced it is offering its Packet8 service for an annual fee of $199. In addition, for a limited time, consumers who sign up for the plan can get a Packet8-enabled plug and play 5.8 GHz expandable cordless phone sys- tem from Uniden for free.
Packet8’s (news - alert) new Freedom Annual plan is a lower cost alterna- tive to its monthly Freedom Unlimited service plan. The annual plan offers unlimited calling in the U.S. and Canada, plus the usual selection of advanced calling features, including voice mail, caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding, and three-way calling. In addition, Packet8’s service lets subscribers choose their own area code.
http://www.packet8.com

Nextlink and XO Partners to Deploys Fixed Broadband Wireless in Nine Cities

XO Communications announced what it calls it’s “first significant market deployments of fixed broadband wireless technology that will broaden its ability to deliver business-class broadband solutions directly to businesses and help the company reduce local network costs.” XO joined forces with sister company Nextlink to deploy fixed broadband wireless in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, San Diego, Tampa and Washington, DC.
XO will use LMDS fixed broadband wireless for this project as its access method to deliver dedicated Internet access and metropolitan and inter-city Ethernet systems directly to businesses at speeds of 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps. From Nextlink wireless hubs deployed in each market, XO can deliver services to any qualified line-of-site location within an average of five miles to support a range of networking services including Internet access, VoIP, and private business networks at native LAN speeds.
“With fixed broadband wireless technology, we are significantly expanding the reach of our network to serve even more businesses, specifically those businesses that do not have direct fiber connections to support their growing bandwidth needs,” said XO’s CEO Carl Grivner. “In addition to expanding our network, fixed wireless also gives us a more cost-effective and scalable replacement to leased network elements that connect local switches to our own fiber network.”
http://www.xo.com

Gate5 Acquired by Nokia

Nokia has agreed to acquire gate5 AG, a supplier of mapping, routing, and navigation software and services. With the acquisition, Nokia will be able to provide its customers with maps, routing, navigation, and other location based applications on its mobile devices.
“Acquiring gate5 enables Nokia to offer consumers mobile location applications, such as maps, routing, and navigation at an accelerated speed,” said Anssi Vanjoki, executive vice president and general manager, multimedia, Nokia. A recent survey reveals that the Personal Navigation Device market is growing rapidly. The global market size is likely to reach 15 million units in 2006 compared with 8 million units in 2005. Vanjoki hopes that the maps and navigation capabilities will help Nokia make real progress.
Berlin-based gate5’s provides its mapping, routing, and navigation software to leading personal navigation device manufacturers all over the world. Thanks to gate5’s solutions, people can take advantage of highly sophisticated mapping and navigation service. “Our combined expertise means that mobile device owners will enjoy a wide range of location based services,” says Dr. Michael Halbherr, CEO of gate5.
Nokia says it will support gate5’s PND customers and its multi- platform strategy for mobile devices, including Symbian, Linux, Windows Mobile, Palm, and Java platforms.
http://www.nokia.com
http://www.gate5.de

QuickConnect from Cistera

Enterprise VoIP application provider Cistera Networks has introduced QuickConnect as an expansion of the functionality of its event alerting and notification offerings, RapidBroadcast and LandMobileRadioConnect. The new offering works with the company’s OpenTrigger application programming interface (API) and with Cistera’s other application engines, including VirtualDirectory and CallCenterRecord Enterprise, to deliver outbound messaging to cellular and analog telephones.
OpenTrigger allows a user to set the parameters to launch notification to a select group of communication devices. QuickConnect is also compatible with Short Message Services (SMS) of wireless carriers including Cingular, Verizon, and Sprint, delivering real-time voice and text messaging to cell phones and voice delivery capability to analog phones.
“Cistera QuickConnect offers the most advanced outbound dialing, SMS, and notification solutions for Cisco and Nortel environments. We are currently beta testing these products with customers in the financial services and healthcare vertical markets,” said Cistera’s chief technology officer Gregory T. Royal. “Cistera was early in the Enterprise VoIP Applications market, and now that the market has moved beyond the early adopter phase, our deep experience is allowing us to extend the possibilities of IP Telephony well beyond the phone,” stated Cistera’s president and acting CEO Derek Downs. “The release of QuickConnect is a major step for us, as it can operate independent of the IP PBX, and opens the door to the possibility of subscription offerings for customers that require notification capabilities and prefer to use a hosted service.”
http://www.cistera.com

Belden and Extricom Patners for Reliable Mobility

Belden, a developer of wired signal transmission products for the enter- prise and industrial markets, and Extricom, the designer of the Interference- Free Wireless LAN System, have entered into a multi-million dollar, multi-year global technology partnership, signifying Belden’s strategic entry into the wireless arena. The primary focus will be on the development of WiFi solutions based on Extricom’s technology that are suitable for enterprise deployment “Our entry into wireless technology presents another avenue for the fulfillment of our customers’ needs with unified wired/wireless solutions they can depend on,” said Peter Sheehan, president of Belden Americas. “Extricom provides a highly differentiated technology that will be the basis for Belden’s future wireless products.”
Extricom’s patented Interference-Free WLAN system is easily installed and cost-efficient and supports simultaneous existence of multiple high-avail- ability bandwidth-intensive applications on one network — with no degradation of service, reliability, or mobility, access, or security. The system eliminates interference through refined control of the wireless access points (APs).
To assume this control, the Extricom system uses a centralized architecture, where all the packet delivery decisions are made in the central switch. This is not only beneficial, but necessary, because the APs themselves have no “brain” — they are merely radios that pass along the data and voice packets between the central switch and the end user devices. The benefit is that, with an Extricom-based network, clients receive consistent, complete coverage without latency and without interference, which all adds up to greater efficiency and satisfaction. Indeed, the company says its wireless networks deliver wireline predictability and reliability.
http://www.belden.com
http://www.extricom.com

Early Media Dilemma solved by BandTel

BandTel CTO Pete Sandstrom knows a thing or two about placing a call over an SS7-ISUP line — he should, since he was the first engineer to do so. Ever since then, Sandstrom has been testing theories on the migration of the traditional PSTN to packet architectures.
Prior to SS7-ISUP and ISDN, circuit-switched telephone calls used in-band call progress tones to let one side know what was happening on the other side of the call. When a number was dialed, audible tones could be heard as the call cut through to the endpoint. Transporting of this legacy call progress information in SIP space is called “early media,” whereby legacy signaling techniques are preserved, but at a price. Bandwidth is being consumed, resulting in potentially dramatic inefficiencies. A call center may need to provision as much as two or three times the amount of bandwidth to get the desired agent/call dialed ratio needed to optimize the call center agent utilization. Ordering extra, wasted bandwidth is expensive, if it’s even available.
Here’s where VoIP telephony, and specifically SIP, solve the legacy problem. SIP is similar to SS7 and ISDN in that it also allows the call progress information to be sent upstream to the originating end via data packets, as opposed to audible tones. BandTel has a solution: Silent Running. For high intensity dial applications, BandTel has engineered a dial plan product that offers A-Z routing with early media “disabled.” Silent Running treatment will result in significant bandwidth savings, which go straight to the bottom line. BandTel’s Silent Running is available today, allowing any enterprise to take advantage and optimize bandwidth usage, reducing costs at the same time. http://www.bandtel.com

IPcelerate Intros Bundled IP Communication Solution specifically for Government Agencies

IP communications specialist IPcelerate (news - alert) has been busy lately addressing the needs of particular vertical markets such as healthcare and education. Now it has announced the first in a series of pre-configured, bundled communications solutions, for government agencies.
The new solution “encompasses the most commonly utilized features and requests from current government customers and is designed to enable agencies to use IP telephony to meet their most critical needs,” according to the firm. IPcelerate’s bundled solution for government agencies addresses a variety of specific needs, such as: safety and security, rapid emergency response, and efficient citizen communication. Those needs, and others, are delivered using the company’s IPsession, IPstudio, and IP Video Surveillance products. By combining those offerings into a bundled solution, the company has tied together functions, such as 911 notification, RFID pendant and sensor integration, dial-out, on-demand audio recording, and triggered video surveillance.
IPcelerate plans to continue along the same lines by, in coming weeks, presenting similar bundled solutions for other markets, including finance and legal. “A solution targeting a specific industry vertical is some- thing that our partner community has often requested,” IPcelerate’s channel marketing manager, Paul Campetella, said in a statement. “We felt it important to address this need, as well as learn from our current customer base.” http://www.ipcelerate.com

Covad Intros Cisco-based IP-based voice and data offering for small to medium businesses (SMBs)

Covad Communications introduced an that bundles Covad’s ClearEdge Integrated Access and Cisco’s (quote - news - alert) Unified CallManager Express. The customer-managed IP Communications service is based on Cisco’s Unified CallManager Express and it features an auto attendant, night service bell, call logging, caller ID, call monitoring, call forwarding, call pickup, dual-line appearances, and hunt groups.
The system also provides SMBs with other capabilities, such as video telephony, rich- media conferencing, unified messaging, and softphone integration. Covad’s ClearEdge Integrated Access combines voice and data on a single, integrated connection to deliver VoIP, broadband, e-mail, and Web-based hosting services on one bill.
The service also features an optional Web-accessible interface, the Covad Integrated Access Dashboard. The Cisco Unified CallManager Express is embedded in the Cisco Internet Services Router that provides call processing for Cisco Unified IP phones. According to the agreement between Covad and Cisco, Cisco Unified CallManager Express and integrated services routers for the system will be sold, deployed and maintained by authorized Cisco and Covad partners.
“Covad’s customer focus led it to develop this offering specifically for SMBs that require smart, simple and secure communications services,” stated Vic Northrup, vice president of service provider operations for Cisco. “This offering gives these businesses exactly what they need in a managed unified communications service… allowing them to get the best of both the hosted and the premise-based communications solution.” http://www.covad.com
http://www.cisco.com

MyFax Simplifies sending Fax on the Web

MyFax unveiled its new Web interface for its Internet-based Fax service that allows users to send and receive faxes using registered email accounts and the Web. The system, designed to enhance each customer’s experience, also brings improved flexibility, manageability, and efficiency to the multitude of businesses that still rely on Faxcommunication — and those that only use faxes on occasion as well — which is a step towards the ultimate goal, increased productivity.
MyFax customers can access the new MyFax Web interface to experience the variety of new features, including friendly and consistent navigation tools for quick and easy faxing and receiving and user administration. Enhancements include a versatile email Inbox-like structure, with additional archiving options — received faxes can be accessed online for one month with no additional charge.
Other enhanced features include a flexible cover page manager, allowing users to create and customize their own cover page(s), including templates for both formal and informal situations. It also lets users decide which faxes to view or print, which to save, and which to delete — much like email applications.
“Faxing is moving online, says Joseph Nour CEO, Protus IP Solutions. “From large enterprises to individual workers, internet faxing is the future. MyFax makes it easy to move online with great value, unique features and a user-friendly design.” In terms any executive can understand, when compared to traditional Fax machines, MyFax is said to save more than 90% on capital expenditures, close to that in recurring monthly fees, and 89% over five years’ time. http://www.myfax.com

ShoreTel and Spectrum Partners for Business VoIP

IP PBX company ShoreTelannounced its partnership with Spectrum InTouch to bring VoIP services and products to the enterprise market. The new partnership will enable Spectrum to offer ShoreTel’s 6 IP PBX platform, creating business phone systems that bring voice and data together, including voice-and-data conferencing and virtual contact centers.
“ShoreTel’s IP voice communication system is user-centric, associating phone numbers with people, not offices,” said Spectrum InTouch’s president, Trent McCracken. “Your calls find you whether you are at your desk, working at a branch office, or using a PC-based softphone at home, in a hotel room, or some other remote location. You have a single contact number and a single voicemail box, elimi- nating a lot of redundant phones calls and duplicate messages. And you get to use a consistent voice environment, wherever you want to work.”
ShoreTel’s 6 IP PBX platform enterpriseclass phone system applications feature voicemail, an automated attendant, auto- matic call distribution, call detail recording and desktop call control. All of these fea- tures are accessible and managed through a Windows-based interface.

Managed IP Telephony Service from NEC Unified Solutions

Looking towards the SMB market, NEC Unified Solutions released its Managed IP Telephony (MIPT) service, a customizable IP system that provides balance between a purchased solution and a hosted IP Telephony solution.
Utilizing NEC’s UNIVERGE IP Telephony platform, the MIPT offering includes a complete suite of professional, maintenance and managed services, carrier services, a single point of contact for provisioning and problem resolution, ongoing performance trend analysis, and real-time reports via a secure Web portal.
According to NEC, MIPT is well positioned to deliver end-to-end support for the entire lifecycle of an SMB’s IPT experience. With the new service, customers will benefit from improved business productivity, a dedicated, feature-rich IP Telephony platform, total system flexibility and customization, and lower TCO at a predictable monthly rate.
“The development of NEC’s Managed IPT Service is a direct result of the fundamental needs of SMBs to gain access to IP telephony,” said David King, vice president, Marketing, at NEC Unified Solutions. “This service solution provides a perfect balance of customizability, reliability, security, and flexibility with no capital, reduced risks, and an overall lower total cost of ownership.” http://www.necunified.com

New Communications System for SMBs Launched by LG-Nortel

LG-Nortel is launching its first new product range, the ARIA SOHO digital hybrid PBX, a smart communications system to help small and medium sized businesses. The system will boost employee productivity, streamline business operations, reduce costs and enhance customer service.
The ARIA SOHO will appeal to SMB and home office users since it offers simplicity and ease of use in regard to installation, operation and maintenance. Its fully hybrid architecture and ‘plug and play’ facility offers high flexibility in selecting types of ter- minals, whether the user is dealing with single-line analog handsets, digital tele- phones, or faxes.
At no extra cost, ARIA SOHO offers essential business services, such as Caller ID, SMS and voice/fax tone detection. The product suite has built-in voice mail, auto attendant, conferencing capability, and LAN interface for Ethernet connectivity. Moreover, the call cost control/monitoring capabilities of the solution keep communications costs low, and can be easily and affordably scaled to 48 extensions. “LG-Nortel will focus on growing SMB market share through ongoing development of new products and marketing activities,” said J.R. Lee, chief executive officer, LG-Nortel. http://www.lg-nortel.com

CosmoCom Interoperate with BroadSoft

Contact center on demand specialist CosmoCom announced it has successfully completed interoperability testing between its CosmoCall Universe all-IP contact center software platform and BroadSofts BroadWorks VoIP application server. The interoperable solution empowers service providers to offer a complete hosted communication service to their enterprise customers with a unified PBX and Contact Center.
CosmoCall Universe (CCU) enables service providers to offer a unified hosted contact center suite that includes ACD, IVR, IVVR, CTI, multimedia recording, and administrative tools, all within a single, high-capacity, high-availability, multi-tenant platform. BroadWorks enables service providers to offer hosted IP PBX services that have all the features of traditional PBX systems. Both services allow customers to benefit without incurring the capital investment and operational overhead of premise-based systems.
Service providers hosting the two platforms can now deliver all of the telecommunications needs of an organization as a unified whole. A single end user device, typically a SIP-enabled IP tele phone, serves as the terminal for both PBX extensions and call center agents. Calls flow seamlessly between call center agents and other staff members. The systems share status and presence information, facilitating customer service when call center agents need to seek out subject matter experts in the larger organization. And CosmoComs advanced IVR capabilities are available to pro vide automated attendant services and other applications not related to the contact center. http://www.cosmocom.com http://www.broadsoft.com

Cistera Introduced two New Apps for Call Centers

IP phone application provider Cistera Networksintroduced two new products, the Cistera ConvergenceServer 7500 and Cistera CallCenterEnterprise v1.7. The CisteraConvergenceServer (CCS) 7500 is designed for enterprise VoIP installations with large numbers of users and monitoring requirements. It can support up to 100,000 directory users or 600 simultaneous recorders. The CCS 7500 also supports four Intel Xeon Processors and up to 36GB of memory. The server runs the Cistera v1.6 platform and will support the CallCenterEnterprise v1.7 (CCEV1.7).
The Cistera CallCenterEnterprise v1.7 will offer Call Center admins and supervisors additional features, including remote monitoring, screen capture, integrated instant messenger (IM) client with better presence support, coaching, and desktop remote control.CCEv1.7 also offers reporting, remote Web-based monitoring and QA sampling. The CCS integrates seamlessly with Cisco’s IP Contact Center Express and Enterprise. http://www.cistera.com

Voip Calling Rates for Zimbabwe. Best voip rates in terms of cost and quality and Cheaper than Calling Cards

If you are looking for the cheapest calling rates to Zimbabwe and with guarantied good audio quality, then here is what you are looking for. The table below gives best calling rates for landlines and mobile phones in Zimbabwe for several voip application and service providers that i have used. Included in the rtable are the cheapest calling rates for Zimbabwe and with voip applications that gives very good audio quality. I have used all the internet phone applications included in this table and they all have remarkably good audio qualities. Some of the rates are even cheaper than calling card rates for thesame destination.

Application / Provider	Landline $/min	Mobile $/min
skype	0.089	0.327
skypho	0.070	0.228
voipcheap	0.036	0.120
voipstunt	0.04	0.10
Gizmoproject	0.081	0.155
Internetcalls	0.03	0.10
voipdiscount	0.04	0.10
Jajah	0.19	0.34
poivy	0.01	0.10
vbuzzer	0.055	0.121
efonica	0.075	0.315

Voip Calling Rates for Zambia. Best voip rates in terms of cost and quality and Cheaper than Calling Cards

If you are looking for the cheapest calling rates to Zambia and with guarantied good audio quality, then here is what you are looking for. The table below gives best calling rates for landlines and mobile phones in Zambia for several voip application and service providers that i have used. Included in the rtable are the cheapest calling rates for Zambia and with voip applications that gives very good audio quality. I have used all the internet phone applications included in this table and they all have remarkably good audio qualities. Some of the rates are even cheaper than calling card rates for thesame destination.

Application / Provider	Landline $/min	Mobile $/min
skype	0.116	0.162
skypho	0.060	0.134
voipcheap	0.036	0.120
voipstunt	0.03	0.10
Gizmoproject	0.061	0.182
Internetcalls	0.03	0.10
voipdiscount	0.03	0.10
Jajah	0.19	0.34
poivy	0.04	0.18
vbuzzer	0.037	0.187
efonica	0.195	0.195

Veraz Switching and Verso Prepaid Wireline selected by Cable & Wireless Jamaica

Cable & Wireless Jamaica has chosen advanced NGN switching infrastructure and prepaid wireline solutions from Veraz Networks (news - alert) and Verso Technologies. The new deployment features the Veraz ControlSwitch Softswitch and service delivery platform in addition to the I-Gate 4000 PRO media gateway. It also features the Verso IP-based I-Master Application Server and Revenue Assurance Platform.
The Verso solution is designed to deliver prepaid features and service to subscribers and was deployed and implemented within four weeks from the date of order. The Veraz ControlSwitch offers Cable & Wireless an advanced switching platform that is capable of integrating with and preserving the legacy infrastructure. The I-Master solution offers convergence of calling card, prepaid and Internet service, which enables the provider to target prepaid wireline, calling card and prepaid Internet services. Cable & Wireless is focusing on an aggressive growth plan for prepaid wireline subscribers, and also plans to migrate existing calling card traffic to the new platform.
“We have been able to launch a new fixed line prepaid service leveraging existing distribution channels for calling cards, now widely available at many retail locations throughout the island,” said Roger Richards, senior vice president, Internet, Voice & Data Services of Cable & Wireless. “In addition, we have also been able to introduce several new electronic options for adding credit to accounts. This will certainly further enhance our leadership role in the provision of telecommunications services in Jamaica.”
“In this environment, with intense price pressure, Cable & Wireless Jamaica has a revenue producing application that also creates customer loyalty via personalization. The plan is to use this as a model for deployment in various markets throughout the Caribbean,” said Allen Draa, vice president, I-Master Product Sales, Verso Technologies.

Click4Me

There is a race going on in the VoIP development community to allow IP communica- tions functionality via a Web browser. No longer is it chic to download software, it seems. Many companies have policies against downloading unapproved software and consumers are fed up with having to deal with the clutter caused by dozens of programs and utilities piling up on their computers.
Browser-based communications will soon be commonplace and there are new developments in this area constantly being announced. Florida-based VoiceOne, a subsidiary of VoIP Inc., has now announced the beta release of its Web-click service, Click4Me.Net. VoIP Inc.’s (news - alert) CTO Shawn Lewis said, “Cick4Me is designed to meet the needs of active, on-the-go businesspeople. It integrates the World Wide Web, VoIP calling, mobile telephony, and landline functionality, all within one product. It even enables users to connect with others without giving out their phone number.” Users aren’t required to use IM or any software at all — they just go to the Web address and connect with whomever they like.
Registered Click4Me users maintain their settings online and can set their availability status to “Away,” “Do Not Disturb” and “Available.” Registered users can also change the unpublished number at which they wish to be reached. Additional features allow users to apply custom filters for blocking specific callers or require special PINs to complete calls. VoiceOne plans to add additional Click4Me.Net features, including voicemail, text message notifications, and text message dialing. http://www.click4me.net

Full-Service Telephony Platform for Cable Launched by MetaSwitch

MetaSwitch has launched a new platform that claims to be an all-in-one solution for cable operators looking to either launch or upgrade existing voice and data services. The company has dubbed its platform COMPETE!, or “Cable Operator Multiservice Platform for Enhanced Telephony Evolution.” As the name implies, it’s designed to give operators a leg up on telephone companies, particularly in the lucrative business services market.
“From a technology perspective, this is an entire network,” said Andy Randall, vice president of marketing at MetaSwitch. “And we’re backing it up with professional services for operators who want help deploying voice for the first time or with the next step in migrating to IMS.”
The platform is built on Cisco’s IP Next-Generation Network infrastructure (IP NGN) and utilizes the unspecified bit rate (uBR) series of cable modem termination systems (CMTS), Linksys multimedia telephone adapters, MetaSwitch’s own multimedia session control and Scientific-Atlanta set-top boxes. It also uses Cisco’s Service Exchange Framework (SEF) for seamless support for Web 2.0 and .NET applications. While residential services have always been cable’s bread and butter, MetaSwitch has an eye toward putting operators into the business enterprise. The platform offers a way to tap into services like hosted private branch exchange (PBX), unified communications and converged T1 services over IP.
“Access into the enterprise market is a key goal of both large and small operators,” Randall explained. “Initially, the primary cable product was video for the residential market with DOCSIS 2.0 bringing in high-speed data to meet business requirements. Now, if you add voice to that, you’ve got quite a compelling service.” http://www.metaswitch.com

Improved Presence and Availability Solution Launched byTeleware

TeleWare has launched TeleWare intelligent Presence Manager (iPM), a presence and availability solution for the corporate environment. The solution enables presence information without PBX type, network protocol, or handset model dependency. Since iPM is a software-only solution, it allows a hardware independent deployment. It can also represent IP and traditional PBX hardware based extensions as virtual extensions through TeleWare’s personal numbering solution. The virtual extensions are enabled for presence information by iPM, bringing presence management to traditional DPNSS and Q-Sig based networks as well as the SIP IP Phones.
iPM enhances the use of presence within the several mixed PBX networks and accommodates the many mixed vendor corporate telephony networks. It also provides a visual indication of the on-/off-call status and registered availability of each listed contact. Additionally, iPM with intelligent eXchange (the next generation TeleWare IP-PBX application) can be connected to and is compatible with PBX hardware and SIP compliant handsets from major vendors. Teleware expects to integrate iPM with both Microsoft’s LCS and IBM’s Sametime for 2006 delivery following the completion of beta trials.
“Presence awareness is rapidly becoming a much sought after feature,” commented Lesley Hansen, TeleWare Group marketing director. “The level of interest is likely to increase further as the PBX hardware vendors and desktop vendors develop solutions with much tighter integration between voice and instant messaging.” http://www.teleware.com

Inter-Tel 5000 Family Expanded

Inter-Tel recently announced the availability of its CS-5600, the latest addition to the company’s Inter-Tel 5000 Network Communications Solutions line, which includes the CS-5200 and the CS 5400. The new CS-5600 supports up to 250 IP endpoints along with 96 digital and analog devices.
The CS-5600 features a dual 1U design, and offers three modular bays for trunks. The system is built on the Linux operating system. Built on the same base chassis as the other members of the 5000 family, the CS-5600 interoperates with the full suite of Inter-Tel applications, such as presence management, collaboration, messaging, and mobility. The 5600 also supports Inter-Tel’s full line of endpoints. The bottom half of the double 1U design acts as a Processing Server, delivering high-performance processing for additional IP users and heavy use environments.
So, the migration path is as follows: To upgrade from a 5200 to a 5400, users need to add a processing expansion card and add on the proper licensing; to move from the 5400 to the 5600, users would add the Processing Server, and again, obtain the appropriate licensing.
Inter-Tel also announced the version 2.0 of its Inter-Tel 5000 software. Now small customers can expand the capacity of their 5000 systems with a simple software upgrade. Designed to provide more efficient system resource management, the upgraded software expands the capacity if the CS-5200 from 25 to as many as 75 ports, and the capacity of the CS 5400 from 110 to as many as 175 endpoints. This means that current customers can grow via a simple software download, as opposed to having to switch out the entire system.
The new software also features support for a four-port analog station module as well as for Caller ID to be sent to an analog device. Inter-Tel plans an eight-port module by year’s end, though company representatives do not have a specific date in mind. http://www.inter-tel.com

Simplified Enterprise E-mail Security Management from Clearswift

Clearswift has launched a new enterprise class version of its e-mail security appliance, MIMEsweeper SMTP Appliance version 2.4. The new version’s next-genera- tion SpamLogic engine and other enhancements deliver benefits to businesses of all sizes.
Several new features, outlined below, specifically address the needs of organizations with multi-box deployments: Enhanced anti-spam signature technology; multi-appliance support; peer appliance Personal Message Management (PMM); integration with third- party archiving and encryption solutions; innovative network configuration and diagnostic improvements.
The new version also includes dual disposal actions, which enables administrators to allow two actions when a content rule is triggered. Additionally, suspected e-mail messages can now be delivered and simultaneously routed to a server for archiving. Clearswift is also launching what it calls “bullets,” a new generation of its SpamLogic spam detection software that uses sliding-scale-based detection method that adapts to the needs of different businesses.
“The new features in version 2.4 of the MIMEsweeper SMTP Appliance are going to make a difference to the workload of your average e-mail administrator when deploying policy changes,” said David Carr, chairman of the MIMEsweeper User Group. “With the inclusion of centralized PMM digests and enterprise management of e-mail policy, this product delivers multibox redundancy and ensures human error is minimized.” http://www.mimesweeper.com

Swiss Re Employees Connected by Interwise

In a bid to better unify all of its geographically dispersed employees, Swiss Re, provider of reinsurance and financial products and services, chose Interwise Connect as its single corporate-wide conferencing solution. Swiss Re selected the Interwise solution among dozens of other vendors and after a one-year evaluation process noting its strong customer/client commitment, security, functionality, pricing and technology.
Using Interwise Connect, employees from across their 70 offices in 30 countries can all use an unlimited amount of conferencing capabilities for a fixed price.
“We chose Interwise on-site IP software approach for its ability to provide the full range of business functionality required by our many types of users, its fixed price/unlimited usage model, and its ability to truly meet all of our infrastructure requirements,” com-mented John Schurdak, head of group platforms for Swiss Re.
“By choosing Interwise we are able to bring together multiple tools, including bandwidth optimization in one solution. Equally important, Interwise combined the pricing and technology to enable us to give conferencing to everyone in the company, like email.” http://www.interwise.com

IPsession Suite expanded with IP Video Surveillance

VoIP solutions provider IPcelerate (news - alert) announced the release of IP Video Surveillance, an IP network solution for recording and monitoring video sessions. The new product is an add-on to IPcelerate’s IPsession suite, and operates as an extension to Situational Awareness, according to the company. Key features of IP Video Surveillance include:
• Web-based interface • Multiple camera views • Camera control interface • Configurable floor plan maps • Support as many as 32 cameras • Continuous, motion-detection and alert-based operation modes • Compatible with IP, analog and digital cameras
“Safety is a primary concern for all businesses, including government facilities and schools, as well as the private sector,” IPcelerate’s Chief Operating Officer, Laurent Therivel notes. “IP Video Surveillance provides organizations the ability to see, hear, and understand what is happening in their facility, allowing them to respond quickly and appropriately.” Therivel added: “This solution is becoming a standard inclusion for our education customers, and just another example of how impactful IP tech- nology can be for an organization.” http://www.ipcelerate.com

Amazon deploys Pingtel’s third generation VoIP solution

Pingtel Corp., the leading provider of SIP-based Enterprise Communications Systems (ECS) today announced that Amazon.com has selected Pingtel’s SIPxchange™ ECS for enterprise deployment. Beginning with an initial deployment at its Seattle headquarters last year, ECS will now become a core element in Amazon’s worldwide program to deploy cost effective, SIP-based VoIP systems supporting thousands of users. Amazon selected Pingtel’s award-winning ECS for its highly-scalable SIP architecture, combined with high availability and robust feature set that delivers both today’s VoIP/PBX features and tomorrow’s real-time communication services.
“Pingtel’s ECS provides a rich voice feature set delivered as open software on off-the-shelf Linux servers,” said Ken MacFarlane, Manager of Network Applications for Amazon.com. “The standards-based ECS architecture facilitated integration with existing systems management tools and enabled us to automate administrative tasks.”
Pingtel’s SIPxchange ECS is the first solution built from the ground up to handle real-time communications - voice, video, presence and mobility - delivering a true enterprise convergence platform. Created in open source and built entirely around standard SIP,
ECS provides enterprise customers with the ideal combination of functionality and value. In addition to a full suite of enterprise PBX features, SIPxchange ECS includes call center/ACD functionality, a built-in presence server, and the ability to function as a network VoIP router. It allows customers to deploy their preferred IP phones from different vendors while providing centralized plug & play management for all phones and gateways including generation and backup of all configuration information,. SIPxchange ECS is typically deployed for about 50% less than voice-only IP PBXs.
“We are very pleased that Amazon has chosen Pingtel’s ECS as a core component of its next generation communications strategy,” said William J. Rich, President and CEO of Pingtel. “Our ECS offers enterprise customers a true convergence platform for communications without proprietary hardware and feature lock-ins delivered at an unbeatable value.”
The SIPxchange ECS is available in various configurations and scales cost-effectively from very small deployments to large deployments for thousands of users. All components can be installed on a single server or distributed. A unique and award winning architecture provides both load balancing and fully redundant operation for high availability. Moreover, SIPxchange ECS is now available packaged in a turn-key appliance that includes all the elements required for successful deployment. Enterprises can select that exact appliance and support package to meet their needs, and all appliances come with full software and hardware support.

Fusion Partners MasterCard

Fusion Telecommunications International,Inc., a global VoIP service provider, today announced that it has entered into a retail marketing alliance with MasterCard Worldwide to offer its suite of premium paid Efonica services to MasterCard cardholders. As part of the agreement, Fusion will market its premium paid Efonica VoIP services via www.mastercard.com.

"Fusion is very pleased to enter into this alliance to market our premium paid Efonica VoIP services to MasterCard cardholders. We believe we have created a significant promotion for MasterCard that will enable its cardholders to realize the substantial benefits of Efonica while allowing Fusion to drive sales of our paid Efonica services", said Matthew Rosen, President and CEO of Fusion.

"We believe Efonica's VoIP services, coupled with an exclusive MasterCard promotion, will be of value to MasterCard cardholders by providing an incentive to keep in touch with friends and family," said Cheryl Guerin, Vice President of Promotions and Interactive for MasterCard Worldwide.

Efonica offers consumers the ability to call each other using their existing landline or mobile telephone numbers. Calls can be made to and from any combination of PCs, Internet phones and regular telephones (with a SIP adapter), connected to either a wireless, broadband or dial-up Internet connection. The service was introduced incorporating Fusion's patent-pending Worldwide Internet Area CodeTM, which combined with a subscriber's existing telephone number, further simplifies the process of making a call. Consumers subscribe to Efonica by visiting www.efonica.com and completing an easy registration process.

Latest Small Business Communication Tool from Toshiba

Toshiba America Information Systems Telecommunication Systems Division (TAIS TSD) recently announced the launch of Strata CIX40 IP business communication system. Designed specifically for small companies, Strata CIX40 supports up to 16 station ports and eight IP channels. The launch of Strata CIX40 also marks the complete transition of the entire Toshiba product line to Voice over IP. Now businesses of all sizes can take advantage of Toshiba’s offerings, from the small scale 16-port CIX40 through the CIX100 and 200 (72 users and 160 users respectively) to fullblown CIX670’s, which are designed to serve up to 560 users. All of these systems can run in a networked environment, so that businesses with varied office sizes and locations can deploy the appropriate systems as their branch office needs dictate.
The announcement of the CIX40 is a boon to small businesses looking to embrace VoIP. According to Yankee Group Director of Global Business Communication Strategies, Steve Hilton, “Offers like the Toshiba solution allow small businesses a full IP solution or a hybrid solution that combines TDM and IP. It gives small businesses a choice in when and how to make the move to VoIP.” Strata CIX40 has been designed to deliver virtually every feature to every user, regardless of the type of Toshiba endpoint they are using, whether they are fixed or mobile. The system supports IP phones, IP wireless telephones, IP softphones on notebook and tablet PCs, and digital (TDM) and analog telephones.
“Toshiba’s Strata CIX40 offers all the benefits of Toshiba’s larger Strata CIX systems at a size and price that is perfect for small businesses,” said Brian Metherell, vice president and general manager of Toshiba’s Telecommunication Systems Division. “With the addition of Strata CIX40, Toshiba has now completed the transition of its entire line of voice solutions to VoIP platforms, while still keeping its promise of a migration path from older Toshiba digital systems.”

8x8 release new Softphone with Voice, Video and E911 Support

VoIP and video service provider 8x8 introduced today the Packet8 Softalk, a video-enabled SIP softphone for use with Packet8 voice and video Internet phone services. Packet8 Softalk will allow subscribers to make and receive voice and video phone calls directly from their personal computers. Along with traditional landlines and cell phones, Softalk users can also call Packet8 VideoPhone subscribers to carry out video communications when traveling, without needing to tote along a separate device.
“The Softalk service gives Packet8 VideoPhone subscribers the option of purchasing either one or two videophones to make and receive Packet8 video calls,” said 8x8’s vice president of sales and marketing Huw Rees. “This means that instead of a $400 investment in two standalone videophones, subscribers can now enjoy two way voice and video calls using their PC on one end and a Packet8 VideoPhone on the other.”
According to 8x8, the softphone supports FCC-mandated E911 nomadic calling, now required as a standard feature of all VoIP services interconnected with the PSTN. The company also bundled advanced NAT traversal technologies and standards in the Packet8 Softalk offering, including IETF standard and draft ICE with STUN and TURN, to allow use of the service behind symmetric and asymmetric NATs. In addition to a PC or laptop, the equipment required to use Packet8 Softalk includes a headset and microphone or USB phone. For video use, a standard, digital camera or off-the-shelf webcam is required to send video and images, though none is required to receive video images. Packet8 Softalk can be downloaded online at http://www.packet8.com

SightSpeed released Version 5.0 with Shifted TV

Video conferencing specialist SightSpeed has announced the newest version of its personal video services platform, SightSpeed 5.0. With this latest release,SightSpeed offers improved quality and functionality in its suite of easy-to-use Internetbased personal video and voice services. Version 5.0 brings enhancements to SightSpeed’s video quality using the company’s new enhanced video codec, which provides improved image clarity and performance optimization. Users of SightSpeed 5.0 will immediately see significantly enhanced video clarity across all network conditions, while continuing to experience full 30 frames per second video, no latency, and perfect synch of video and voice unmatched by any other service.
SightSpeed 5.0 also offers improved connectivity. It is a direct peer to peer connection enabled via a central directory, which then drops out, leaving the direct P2P connection traversing firewalls on both ends. It is different from the Skype-type supernode model, which many fear can compromise network security. SightSpeed 5.0 also adds voice-only calling capability — PSTN Out- and In-calling — which work much like Skype’s calling services, with competitive pricing and high quality voice transmis- sion. SightSpeed 5.0 also introduces free and unlimited PC to PC voice-only calling. With 5.0, SightSpeed’s real-time communications suite is complete with the best quality video and voice over IP (VVoIP), voice over IP (VoIP) and text (IM) solution. The most innovative of SightSpeed 5.0’s new features is a break-through extension of its personal video services, SightSpeedTV.
SightSpeedTV is a place shifting television viewing feature that gives users with a TV capture card on their PC or laptop the ability to view their home TV anywhere in the world. The most noteworthy feature of SightSpeedTV is that, unlike many similar competitor solutions, it requires no additional hardware and comes complete with an intuitive “remote control” interface, enabling true channel surfing — from anywhere. SightSpeedTV will be introduced as a beta feature available for free to all SightSpeed users.

Create Smarter Networks for VoIP Traffic with New NetEnforcers

Allot Communications has launched two new additions to its line of network optimization devices, both in its NetEnforcer AC-800 series of traffic management devices — the AC-804 and AC-808. The new devices are designed for small to mid-sized service providers and medium to large enterprises. Using Allot’s deep packet inspection (DPI) technology, the devices give network managers previously unrealized levels of visibility into their networks, enabling them to monitor and control traffic and user behavior.
Both devices also are equipped with Allot’s new NetXplorer centralized management capability, which provides end-to-end visibility and in-depth analysis of bandwidth usage per application and per user. Working in tandem, the new NetEnforcers and NetXplorer deliver the network business intelligence and QoS control that operators need to guarantee the delivery and performance of VoIP, streaming video, and a host of other high-bandwidth services that are demanded by end users. Because the AC-804 and AC-808 support multiple GigE links, operators can more easily implement traffic management within and across segmented networks, meshed networks, and other topologies. It also allows for flexible load-sharing configurations as well as robust redundancy schemes.
“Allot helps network administrators see what’s actually on the network, and use that intelligent insight to manage traffic according to business requirements,” said Rami Hadar, president and CEO, Allot Communications. “This ability to determine network content is invaluable for managing traffic while maintaining a high level of service quality.”

New Tenors to ensure the survival of Branch Communication

Quintum Technologies has announced the availability of its new enhanced Survivable version of its Tenor VoIP MultiPath Switch that will provide local support for branch offices when IP connectivity with the main voice server at headquarters is lost. Quintum’s Tenors assure enterprises that even in the event of failure at the IP PBX, branch office communication can continue without delay.In fact, The Survivble Tenor S requires no additional equipment (other than the VoIP end-points) to support both IP devices and legacy analog devices at branch offices, providing con-nectivity to both the IP network as well as the local PSTN. The Survivable Tenor, in combination with the switching architecture, enables all the call processing and routing required to keep a VoIP system up and running, even when the main VoIP server connection has been lost.
The Survivable Tenor S uses a local SIP proxy to provide survivability for local SIP endpoints and intelligent call routing, which keeps any SIP-based VoIP network up and running should the connection with the main server be interrupted. Typically, in the event of server failure, IP devices would cease operation. The Survivable Tenors keep the local IP telephony phone network operational — regardless WAN connectivity — and combines that with its PSTN failover capabilities,ensuring not only that IP phones and legacy analog devices (i.e., faxes, security systems, PA systems, etc.) remain operable, but that access to the local 911 network is never severed.
The new Tenor is a viable solution for service providers offering hosted IP PBX or IP Centrex services, which have customers that, essentially, behave like branch offices and require trunking, connectivity, and survivability. Indeed, for these customers, it may be even more important to ensure communication is maintained than for many remote offices. Quintum’s Vice President of Marketing Chuck Rutledge emphasized that Quintum has service provider customers of all sizes, including a large number of NGN providers and VoIP specialists. He also noted that the company is making strides with larger and larger providers and hinted that an agreement with a major U.S. carrier could come in the near future. Because the Tenor accommodates both IP phones and legacy devices, it is perfect for those companies engaged in a phased VoIP deployment. Perhaps the main office and a few key branches are set up with VoIP service, but the smaller branches are left with their legacy systems for the time being. Quintum allows the enterprise to integrate the existing branch office PBX with the IP PBX in the main office by dropping a Tenor in the branches. That Tenor will provide trunking to the IP network for the analog devices, essentially putting the IP and analog devices on one network without having to replace all the phones. When it comes time to convert the remaining branches to IP, it’s as simple as replacing the phones, taking out the traditional PBX, and con- necting any remaining analog devices to the Tenor, which retains it place in the network. Now, the Tenor that was providing trunking and integration is now acting as the survivable branch office gateway in exactly the same place in the network architecture. Both versions of the Tenor are built on Quintum’s MultiPath architecture, which provides the call routing between IP and PSTN, including network “hop-on” and “hop-off,” and PSTN connectivity to 911 emergency services. Both offer easy, transparent installation in existing network infrastructure and assured voice QoS to monitor IP traffic and switch calls to an alternate network in the event that jitter, packet loss, or latency will jeopardize call quality.
In addition to announcing its Survivable Tenors, Quintum also has expanded its Tenor AF product line, which now features 2, 4, 6, and 8 analog line and trunk interfaces to support up to 8 simultaneous VoIP calls. “The Tenor AF Series was designed to inevitably fulfill the destiny announced here,” said Rutledge. Quintum is phasing out its old low-end product (Quintum’s Tenor AS series) and replacing it with the new AF series, which will now support 2, 4, and 8 ports previously supported by the AF and AS lines, and will also add a new 6-port option. The new Tenor AF is more scalable and versatile and able to support a wider array of configurations, including Quintum’s unique MultiPath configuration, gateway (station) configurations, trunking configurations, and enterprise configurations.The Tenor AF Series is also being offered in the new Survivable version to ensure communications stability in the event of IP PBX failure.

Voip Calling Rates for Yemen. Best voip rates in terms of cost and quality and Cheaper than Calling Cards

If you are looking for the cheapest calling rates to Yemen and with guarantied good audio quality, then here is what you are looking for. The table below gives best calling rates for landlines and mobile phones in Yemen for several voip application and service providers that i have used. Included in the rtable are the cheapest calling rates for Yemen and with voip applications that gives very good audio quality. I have used all the internet phone applications included in this table and they all have remarkably good audio qualities. Some of the rates are even cheaper than calling card rates for thesame destination.

Application / Provider	Landline $/min	Mobile $/min
skype
skypho
voipcheap
voipstunt
Gizmoproject
Internetcalls
voipdiscount
Jajah
poivy
vbuzzer
efonica

Voip Calling Rates for Wallis And Futuna. Best voip rates in terms of cost and quality and Cheaper than Calling Cards

Voip Calling Rates for Wallis And Futuna. Best voip rates in terms of cost and quality and Cheaper than Calling Cards If you are looking for the cheapest calling rates to Wallis And Futuna and with guarantied good audio quality, then here is what you are looking for. The table below gives best calling rates for landlines and mobile phones in Wallis And Futuna for several voip application and service providers that i have used. Included in the rtable are the cheapest calling rates for Wallis And Futuna and with voip applications that gives very good audio quality. I have used all the internet phone applications included in this table and they all have remarkably good audio qualities. Some of the rates are even cheaper than calling card rates for thesame destination.

Application / Provider	Landline $/min	Mobile $/min
skype
skypho
voipcheap
voipstunt
Gizmoproject
Internetcalls
voipdiscount
Jajah
poivy
vbuzzer
efonica

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