VoIP Now

Westan, Vonexus sign deal for IP-PBX Solutions distribution

Westan and Vonexus have inked a master distribution deal for the distribution of IP-PBX solutions in Australia.

Kamil Aghtan, Director of Westan stated;

Westan has been in the Communications and Telephony market with Intel and other vendors for five years now, traditionally focused on the enterprise space.

An IP-PBX using open standards will now provide considerably better features, flexibility, scalability and interoperability than the traditional proprietary PBX systems, he added.

Via: [VoIP Central]

Netgear launches world's first Skype WiFi phone

Netgear unveiled world's first Skype WiFi Phone, SPH101 in UK at a products-showcase for over a dozen of Skype's hardware partners. It looks like an ordinary phone but possesses certain unique features to enable the users to make and receive Skype calls from any wireless router or access point. To access the Skype service of Netgear, the users do not require a PC.

Netgear's SPH101 contains phone books built in for Skype contacts. Users can find all the facilities in Skype WiFi phones what they had when using Skype with a computer.   Most probably, the company will sell it in the market in August at £110 per set.

Via: [VoIP Central]

TeliaSonera International Carrier launches VoIP Connect

In order to provide high quality VoIP services to the customers, TeliaSonera International Carrier has introduced a service 'VoIP Connect' that provides carriers access to VoIP technology without any additional investment on infrastructure. TeliaSonera International Carrier is on of the leading telecommunications service providers of Europe.

Rene Timmermans, head of product and business management at TeliaSonera International Carrier says on the new launch,

We are bringing a competitive advantage to our customers, because VoIP Connect makes it very easy for them to offer high quality international voice services to the end users.

The subscribers of VoIP Connect should access to the TeliaSonera network through a gateway. For which, they do not require telephony servers.

Via: [Digital Media Asia]

Verso, IBM team up to market Linux-based VoIP Offering

Verso Technologies and IBM have put together their technical resources to provide Verso MetroNet VoIP Overlay system on the IBM eServer Blade Centre platform. As per the joint agreement, a Linux-based VoIP system will operate on the IBM eServer BladeCenter. The two companies will market the Linux-based VoIP services.

Bannerman, CEO of Verso Technologies remarked,

We can reach new markets with a Linux-based VoIP platform running on the IBM BladeCenter platform, which assists us in our goal of becoming a major supplier of VoIP solutions to the carrier markets. Access to IBM global markets expands Verso's distribution channel and provides access to a substantial piece of the global VoIP market.

The new offering targets providers in the Tier-2 through Tier-4 markets that necessitate the use of an open standards softswitch platform. This system includes Verso Clarent endpoint (Class-5) and tandem (Class-4) switching technologies. In addition to it, the combined softswitch system facilitates providers to deploy VoBB services to business and residential subscribers.

Via: [TMCnet]

Vonage Canada launches V-Phone

Vonage Canada, a subsidiary of Vonage Holdings Corp has come up with a new phone Vonage V-phone to hit the VoIP market. Vonage V-phone is small, portable and multifunctional USB device that facilitates users to make calls to other computers or to traditional landlines using a PC. Its size is so small that it can be carried on a keychain, a pocket or the palm of your hand.

Bill Rainey, president of Vonage Canada stated,

With V-Phone, you can make and receive North American calls using your regular home or business number, no matter where in the world you travel - all for the price of a local call and with no cell phone roaming charges. We are confident our customers will enjoy the savings and flexibility the V-Phone provides, especially those who frequent hotel lounges, airports or Internet cafes.

The company fixes $40 with a $9 activation fee for a V-phone. Customers should have to pay $15 for 500 minutes to $25 per month for unlimited U.S. calling. The company offers unlimited US calling for Business customers for $34.99.

Via: [CNW]

IW's IPdurm brings Skype calls on cell phones

Integrated Wireless (IW) Distribution has launched the much-awaited IPdurm Mobile Skype Cable. Integrated Wireless Distribution is one of the recognized distributors of VoIP devices; the devices are highly productive for the SME and consumers. Its latest IPdrum is an IP related solution that connects Skype to a mobile phone enabling users to make and receive Skype calls from their own mobile phones wherever in cellular coverage.

That's why Daryl Chambers, Director of Integrated Wireless Distribution noted,

Until today, Skype users needed to sit in front of their PC to make and receive Skype calls. Now you can receive and make Skype calls wherever cellular coverage exists, allowing users to take advantage of all that Skype offers while on the move.

IPdurm that brings Skype telephony to any mobile phone is currently supporting Windows XP and accessible with Nokia and Sony Ericsson base phones.

Via: [Ferret]

Arvato selects Avaya VoIP services for effective communication

Avaya Inc has been selected by the Arvato Services, a provider of CRM services through IT systems applications. Arvato will utilize the VoIP services of Avaya to connect its call and contact centers. Over the years, Avaya has been providing Communication-related solutions for the business enterprises.

Arvato Services is making steady growth in the IT business. It offers customer and financial services, database management, printing, production, distribution and e-commerce transition through CRM global solutions.

Arvato has opted for Avaya IP telephony to connect its contact centers in Buenos Aires, Argentina and in Kitchener, Canada to help it maintain high standards of service.

The VoIP services of Avaya will facilitate Arvato to supervise the performance of employees, find out errors, adjust training process and prioritize calls by recording incoming calls.

Via: [CNW]

Ensure VoIP service in Countryside, NTC to firms

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) of Philippines has directed the telecommunications regulators to cover specific areas for their VoIP services. NTC will determine these areas. The step is apparently taken to enhance the broadband convergence in Philippines. Particularly, the NTC wants to ensure the rural areas to access VoIP service, the service that reduces international call rates.

The plan is more or less similar one that was imposed by the NTC in 1990s on mobile phone industries. The mobile phone industries acting on the ruling install a certain number on fixed landlines in the missionary areas and other such specific areas of Philippines.

Ronald O. Solis, NTC Commissioner hopes the rollout requirement would help develop local VoIP industry while reducing the cost of telecommunication for the average Filipino.

Via: [TMCNet]

ZivVa acquires Vocalocity to simplify VoIP deployment and OEMs application

ZivVa's effort to simplify the creation and deployment of VoIP services and OEMs gets a major boost after the acquisition of Vocalocity, a provider of OEM software for standards-based telephony solutions. ZivVa is a recognized hosted VoIP applications provider.

The joint firms will function under the name Vocalocity because the OEM software provider has deserved a strong dominance in the market. Now they will provide the customers of both companies under a single brand, an on-demand service-based platform and an OEM-driven standards-based platform.

Mike Dickerson, former CEO of Vocalocity commented, 'ZivVa's commitment to further develop our core OEM customer base creates an incredibly powerful opportunity.   Direct access to ZivVa's on-demand application platform will allow our OEM customers to benefit from faster development of user-tested products that simplify the creation and deployment of voice services'.

Via: [IP Communications]

Skype faces hurdle in S. Korea

The Ministry of Information and Communication (MIC) of South Korea has directed the VoIP service provider Skype not to sign up new customers as long as it meets the e-business codes 19 and 59.2 provisions for VoIP service. 

MIC explains that Skype has been operating its international phone services without the approval of the MIC's director. It also alleges that customer prepaying for Skype service (as fixed by Skype) is a violation of the countries local regulation.

However, it would be too early to make a comment that the Korean government is deliberately opposing the Skype service. Skype will be back into operation after proper registrations. It is discussing the issue with the MIC for an amicable solution.   

Via: [ZD Net]

VoIP can be another tool for hackers

The researchers at Cambridge University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) suspect that the VoIP software like Skype can be another tool for hackers to gain access to user's computers. While the Communications Research Network claims that it is only a matter of time before the technique becomes   mainstream and turn out to be the same problem that instant messaging has where hackers cause DoS attacks using the IP protocol. The communications experts believe that the hacking problem could be removed only when the VoIP publishers were to make known their routing specifications or switch over to open standards.

Via: [Breaking News Blog]

Jajah offers Free VoIP Calls for its Registered Users

Now the Jajah registered users can make free international calls among themselves using the VoIP service of Jajah. The offering came from the Jajah, a web-based VoIP service.

The company calls it Jajah Free Global Calling Plan, the plan that allow the registers customers to make free calls to other users by using any type of phone; softphone, IP phone, conventional landline phone or cell phone.

Although the company claims it global plan, the free services are restricted to some selected countries such as United States, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Australia, UK, Germany, France, Italy and most other European nations.

Via: [VoIP Central]

Verizon Business provides VoIP Security Assessment Service

Verizon Business will be providing an advanced VoIP Security Assessment Service, the service highly productive for the business and government customers.

The VoIP Security Assessment Service also known as the professional service is developed to make out and tackle potential security vulnerabilities connected with customer premises-based VoIP and hosted IP PBX systems from any hardware and software vendor.

A business team of about 300 security professionals supports the Verizon's VoIP Assessment Service that solves the various problems like fraud, loss of service, denial of service attacks, viruses as well as newer challenges associated with the integration and interoperability of VoIP software and hardware.

Via: [Vonmag]

Freshtel to open retail UK VoIP service

It appears that Freshtel, the leading VoIP service provider and technology developer will stand tall in the UK VoIP market. It has adopted an aggressive marketing strategy in this regard. The VoIP service provider has now decided to start its own retail VoIP service in UK and joined hands with Binatone to produce internet phone products to meet the need of the customers. Freshtel disclosed it earlier this year. They will sell their products Binatone's existing retail network throughout the UK, in a staged implementation from August 2006. Binatone's telephone products are hitting the UK market. Binatone makes one in four phones purchased by UK households, says Dino Lalvani, Binatone COO.

Via: [VoIP Central]

SingTel to deploy VDSL2 broadband technology

With SingTel preparing to deploy VDSL2 broadband technology, Singapore is all set to receive a high-speed internet access network that will allow 100Mbps over existing copper infrastructure.  Based on Ericsson's EDA VDSL2 technology, the network will make possible a triple play service (Video, Voice and Data) over the legacy local loop. The striking feature of this latest VDSL2 standard is that it uses Ethernet that facilitates the service provider to use VLANs as the delivery apparatus across the entire access network.

Via: [VoIP News]

Moroccan Government recognizes Amitelo for VoIP

The Moroccan government has recognized Amitelo for its VoIP products and services. Last week, a conference was organized to demonstrate the VoIP related products and services of Amitelo. Moroccan Prime Minister Driss Jettou, External Investment Director Hassan Bernoussi, presidents of incumbent African telecom companies were present in the conference. The Board of Directors of Amitelo AG were among the dignitaries. Amitelo, headquartered at Zurich made a demonstration of its products at the conference. The company will undertake a pilot on VoIP.

The Moroccan government will take favorable steps for the growth of VoIP services in the country. The government has decided to grant loans for the installment of VoIP. There would be 5,000 new VoIP call shops over the next three years in Moroccan. For which, it will grant EUR 25, 000.00 per call shop.

Driss Jettou said,

The Government of Morocco is with Amitelo, will support Amitelo and will assist Amitelo in any way possible in its economic growth and social undertakings in Morocco.

Via: [VoIP Central]

Samsung launches Enterprise Networking Solutions

In an effort to mark its presence in the VoIP market, the leading mobile phone manufacturer Samsung has developed an enterprise networking solutions. The networking 'Ubigate iBG' provides routing, switching, security and voice integration (both analog and digital). The product also supports VoIP.

The company designs four types of iBG product lines, two for small business and one each for medium and large enterprise. The company will release the fourth model meant for large enterprise second quarter of next year. The remaining three models will be available this year.   

Via: [IP Telephony]

Enea, Nanoradio work together for WLAN VoIP and Internet Connectivity to Mobile Terminals

Enea is joining forces with Nanoradio to integrate the OSE real-time operating system (RTOS) with Nanoradios NRX701 WLAN platform of for mobile terminals, which will facilitate mobile terminal producers to add high-performance and low-power WLAN capability to their mobile devices for the applications such as VoIP and Internet connectivity. Eneas OSE RTOS is very popular among the mobile phone manufacturers. Around half of the worlds' third generation mobile phones and base stations have the Eneas OSE RTOS deployments. With this new alignment, Eneas will further enhance its position as the ultimate choice for 3G mobile terminals.

Via: [TMCnet]

NetAlly Works with Avaya, Cisco and Mitel

NetAlly Lifecycle Manager of Viola Network has now added up with Avaya's Communication manager, Mitel's Enterprise Manager and Cisco's CallManager and voice gateways. NetAlly helps for the successful implementation of VoIP with a minimum investment of time and resources. It is a software suite for managing VoIP assessment, deployment, network monitoring and network optimization. The VoIP assessment is significant to determine whether the network is reliable for VoIP deployment or not. It operates in passive monitoring mode to collect data on VoIP phones, monitoring call records and quality statistics.

Via: [IP Telephony]

Orbtalk's VoIP accessories free for new customers

Really, the VoIP market in UK is booming. It appears that the number of VoIP service providers is increasing day by day. To lure the customers, they are coming up with new marketing strategies. Now take the case of Orbtalk. It has decided to offer free VoIP accessories for the new customers.

Orbtalk plans to increase its customer's base in the UK. The leading hardware retailer Broadbandstuff supports Orbtalk. Orbtalk will provide a few free samples. The customers will get a free USB phone with £25 credit and free VoIP Phone Adapter with £50 credit once they sign up for the Orbtalk services. Orbtalk and Broadbandstuff will offer the customers a UK phone number. There is no contract or set-up fee to access the VoIP services of Orbtalk.

Via: [VoIP Central]

Alcatel gets a Euro 70-million wireless contract

Telekom Malaysia (TM) has awarded a Euro 70 million wireless contract to Alcatel for its third generation and UMTS wireless network. According to the deal, Alcatel will provide communication related solutions to Celcom Berhad, a fully owned company of TM.

The project will empower Celcom to provide customers across the Malaysian cape, Sabah and Sarawak islands a range of innovative high-bandwidth services for multimedia mobile communications such as live streamling mobile TV channels.

Via: [bolsamania]

AudioCodes plays a role for Microsoft's Unified Communications

Microsoft's Unified Communication solutions get a major boost after getting the support from AudioCodes for its analog and digital media gateways, which have been selected for integration with diverse PBX types. AudioCodes is a recognized company for Voice over Packet (VoP) technologies and Voice Network products.

Lior Aldema, VP of Marketing at AudioCodes stated,

We support Microsoft's vision for making this a reality by offering our innovative VoIP technology and media gateways, and working closely with them to empower work forces with real-time communications capabilities that allow for communications virtually anytime, anywhere on any device.

Unified Communication offers entrepreneurs reliable communication services for business advantages.

Via: [boursorama]

Middle Eastern enterprises deploying VoIP systems

VoIP is getting momentum in the communication scenario. VoIP market is growing steadily. Business community is keen to take the advantage of this latest communication system. According to survey conducted by Avaya shows that either 71 percent of Middle Eastern enterprises have deployed or preparing ground for the deployment of IP telephony.

The survey covering 1,000 decision markers from regional organizations indicates that 55 percent of enterprises have installed a converged voice and data network. The rest of enterprises are ready to deploy VoIP systems by the end of 2007.

Via: [ITP]

Oversea students develop FTS for long distance calls

Using VoIP, some of the former oversea students in America have developed an internet telephony system called FTS.

People can make free long-distance calls by connecting FTS with a broadband router or modem. They just need to pay for the device not for the service. The device cost comes around US$150 per set. 

The students claim that they developed FTS for their relatives and friends to effortlessly keep touch with those living overseas to skirt long distance phone costs.

Via: [THANHNIEN News]

CSS, G&T deploy SteelheadR appliances

Contech Stormwater Solutions (CSS) and G&T Conveyor have installed SteelheadR appliances of Riverbed Technology Inc. The deployment is aimed at bringing rapid improvement in application performance, enhance VoIP and video quality of CSS and G&T. In addition to these, CSS and G&T also want to transfer of large design and database files over WANs thorough this deployment. CSS is a renowned company with $100 million business. Its offices are located in Maine, Maryland and Oregon .

These are linked by T1lines having 768 kbps of that bandwidth designed for video and another 128 kbps diverted towards VoIP. G&T is a manufacturer and designer of bagging handling and explosive detection equipment for most important airports of the world.

Via: [dBusinessNews]

BellSouth deploys GeoProbe VoIP monitoring system

BellSouth Corporation will install Tektronix's GeoProbe VoIP monitoring system from its Unified Assurance suite throughout its IP network. This system will easily trace out  the networking problems of BellSouth affecting the VoIP service by assembling all signaling data relating to VoIP traffic.

Doug Dickerson, Vice President at Tektronix quoted,

While VoIP offers a solid case for reducing service provider operating costs and increasing service revenues, these advantages could be offset by the higher degree of complexity in monitoring service quality if not managed properly.

News: [VoIP Central]

Neobits chooses DecisionOne as installer of TalkSwitch PBX phone systems

Neobits has chosen DecisionOne as a certified installer for TalkSwitch PBX phone systems. These systems are highly productive for the small and medium enterprises. Neobits distributes TlakSwitch PBX systems.   As per the deal, DecisionOne will make available installation services for Neobits' customers who buy TalkSwitch phone systems.

Arvind Goel, President of Neobits commented,

TalkSwitch's advanced VoIP technology and telephone systems, combined with DecisionOne's nationwide service footprint, complement our ability to support the small to midsize business with advanced telephony solutions.

DecisionOne bagged the prestigious award 'the Internet Telephony(R) Product of the year award' for its Desktop to Dialtone(TM) services.

Via: [CNW]

Rapid Link, Internap provide VoIP service to US Military

Rapid Link and Internap joined forces to provide VoIP services to US military and other niche markets with telecom services.

According to the deal signed inked by two companies, Internap will route the VoIP calls made by Rapid Link's 25,000 military family customers across more than 50 countries in five continents.

David Hess, President of Rapid Link said,

Thanks to Internap's IP footprint, we're able to extend our global reach and avoid building local points of presence in each international market we serve. Plus, their managed routing on Tier1 backbones helps provide the toll quality our customers expect, while the global reach also helps the military personnel because they are frequently deployed to many remote parts of the world. 

Internap Performance IP service technology is recognized by the contemporary VoIP service providers like Vonage and BroadVoice.

Via: [TMCnet]

BT comes with new Total wireless package

BT, the global broadband service provider has come up with a new package what it calls Total package to hit the market. The Total package includes interactive TV, videophoning and other integrated home media services. The new offering also includes VoIP calls with wireless broadband for the residential users. The services are now available in the market. Customers have to pay minimum £24 for the UK-based BT's new Total package to access wireless services in their homes at up to 8Mb. The customers can connect up to 15 devices like radios, gaming boxes and standard computers to the net at once.

It seems that BT's broadband package is costlier to TalkTalk, which offers broadband package for just £21 a month (including free landline calls). However, market experts opine that BT's service is impressive than others.   

Via: [Guardian Money]

Engin to raise additional capital

Engin has decided to raise capital through the issuance of new shares equivalent to 21.8 percent of its existing capital in the stock market. The Australian broadband phone service provider will invest money in network and support systems to enhance company's operating capacity. Engin has now 40,000 lines. Its telecommunication services are hitting the Australian market. It is getting around 4,000 subscribers per month. The company plans to achieve 100,000 subscriber bases by June 2007. For which, Engin is keen to invest money in different segments of market.

Via: [VoIP News]

Ingenio selects Ether at Supernova Conference

Ingenio has launched Ether, a kind of voice commerce application for the sale of services over the Internet. The company declared it at the Supernova 2006 Conference. Ether has pioneered in the areas relating to distributed computing, communications, media and business. Therefore, Ingenio has chosen Ether among the hundreds of companies for voice commerce application.

Greg Sterling, founder of Sterling Market Intelligence says,

Tools like AdSense have sought to make it possible for people to monetize user-generated content based on clicks, but Ether helps people leverage content to monetize their time. 

Michael Arrington, author of TechCrunch blog explained,

Ether's combination of phone advice plus the ability to charge for digital content opens up all kinds of possibilities for web users.

Via: [PR Newswire]

VoIP Firms not replying 911 calls

The Federal Communications Commission ruled last year that the VoIP service providers must offer E911 service to new and existing customers. FCC outlawed the companies from advertising services, which do not take E911 functionally.

The recent developments show that a good number of VoIP service providers are not following the mandate. On many occasions, they do respond 911 calls. It is a matter of concern for the FCC, explains its chairperson Kevin Martin. What is more shocking the fact that some of the VoIP service providers add new customers without offering 911 facilities!

Half of the US VoIP providers confirmed the FCC that they are providing E911 services to their customers. However, most of the Net Companies are not co-operating the FCC. They are still offering the VoIP service without E911 facilities since FCC enforced the law six months ago. BroadVoice does not provide 911 services while MyPhoneCompany.com considers E911 an option not compulsion, something that FCC restricts.

Via: [Yahoo! News]

Ascalade Launches Companion Simple VoIP phone

Ascalade Communications introduced a new VoIP phone 'Companion SimpleVoIP' with ClearAudio technology. It is now on a sale for the new and existing strategic partners and customers especially the company's branded telephony and PC accessory customers. However, the company will commercially release it next month.

The company says it is the first product, which features Ascalade's ClearAudio technology. ClearAudio technology integrating wideband audio provides an unambiguous digital sound experience.

Edmund Ho, CEO at Ascalade Communications said,

The Companion Simple targets the entry level segment of Skype users and is part of our ongoing strategy to provide our strategic partners and customers with innovative products for the growing VoIP market.

Ascalade designs the device in such a way that it provides 'One Touch' access to their Skype contact list.

Via: [TMCNet]

Japan emerges as the third largest broadband country in the world

With 24 million broadband services, Japan has emerged the third largest broadband country of the world. The US and China occupies the top two positions, according to Research and Markets's 2006 Telecoms, Mobile and Broadband in Asia report.

The report presents a vivid picture of recent trends and developments in telecommunications, broadcasting and Pay TV markets in Japan.

Japanese telecommunication sector will maintain steady growth this year with VoIP and triple play services to make a strong dominance, the report claims .

The VoIP subscribers' base is increasing in Japan year by year. The country has now about 9 million VoIP subscribes as reported last year.   The number is expected to reach 28 million by the end of 2007. Things stand as of now, the growth has also created major challenges for the traditional fixed line service providers in the country. Now they feel that the growth of VoIP will eat up their revenues.

Via: [VoIP Magazine]

Cistera launches VoIP application for Call Centers

Cistera Networks has launched two new products - the Cistera ConvergenceServer 7500 and Cistera CallCenterEnterprise v1.7 . Off these two products, the Cistera CallCenterEnterprise v1.7 is highly useful for the call centers. It allows  the Call Center admins and supervisors some extra features like remote monitoring, screen capture, integrated instant messenger client with better presence support, coaching and desktop remote control. In addition to these, CCEv1.7 also ensures reporting, remote Web-based monitoring and QA sampling. While the Cistera ConvergenceServer 7500 supports 100,000 directory users and 4 Intel Xeon Processors operating the Cistera v1.6 platform.

Via: [VoIP Central]

FCC says VoIP providers too have to pay for USF

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has ruled that like cellular operators, the VoIP service providers henceforth should pay for the Universal Service Fund (USF).

This is for the first time the VoIP service providers will contribute for the USF, while there is a hike in rate for the cell phone service providers.

The USF provides financial support to providers in rural and backward areas to ensure accessibility at reasonable rates. The FCC move is very likely to increase the customers' monthly VoIP bills. As it usually happens when the FCC hikes fees, the ultimate burden falls on the customers.

Kevin Martin, FCC chairperson comments on the new rules,

I still believe that this new system needs fundamental reform, and I remain committed to adopting and implementing a numbers-based contributions.

The new regulation directs the Cellular companies to pay 3.9 percent of their revenues and 6.8 percent of VoIP revenues. 

Via: [VoIP Central]

Cedar Point, Columbus Communications ink VoIP deal

Cedar Point Communications Inc  has inked a deal with Columbus Communications Trinidad Ltd to offer its Safari C3 multimedia switching gateway for the delivery of VoIP services in Trinidad via the FLOW service of Columbus Communications Trinidad. Columbus Communications Trinidad Ltd has decided to implement its digital cable television service in the selected areas this month. The company officials states that Trinidad Ltd has received a major concession in February to provide cable TV and VoIP services in Trinidad. Cedar Point Communications Inc's Cedar Point Safari C3 is an integrated VoIP switching platform. The platform integrates several voice network components such as managements servers, media gateways and Ethernet switches into one unit.

Via: [Biz Journals]

Skype helping US Military

Skype is offering VoIP services to the US military service members and their families. For which it has joined hands with RadioShack Corporation and the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the USA. Skype bridges the communication gap of the US military service members and their families. It offers them to make voice calls from one Skype account to another without any charge through Skype starter. In addition to it, the leading VoIP service provider offers US customers one hour free international calls to landline phones in 30 countries of the World.

Via: [Tom Keating's VoIP and Gadget Blog]

Vodavi makes partnership with Speakeasy for VoIP sales

Vodavi Technology has extended a marketing partnership with Speakeasy to enhance the sale of its VoIP systems to business enterprises.

The comprehensive deal makes Speakeasy to market Vodavi's 6800 Series IP Terminals in conjunction with its Business VoIP solutions. Vodavi develops VoIP solutions for the small business customers opting for a single provider for communication needs.

Speakeasy Business, a Seattle-based broadband services company provides the advantages of an advanced PBX phone system without having to invest in complex and expensive on-site hardware.

Via: [Biz Journals]

Daniel Weirich becomes acting CFO of 8x8 Inc

Daniel Weirich will be the acting chief financial officer (CFO), vice president of finance and secretary of 8x8Inc. Santa Clara based leading VoIP and videophone communications service provider announced it on 21 June.

Daniel will replace outgoing CFO James Sullivan. James vacated his position earlier this month to purse another career opportunity.

Daniel is associated with 8x8 Inc. He held the position of vice president of operations. He will remain in that position. The company is looking for a permanent CFO. For which it is undertaking an external search. Daniel will hold the positions of CFO temporarily.

Via: [Biz Journals]

Viewqwest deploys Tekelec 6000 VoIP Application Server

Singapore-based Viewqwest has deployed the Tekelec 6000 VoIP Application Server in the Singapore to provide its One Voice hosted business-class voice, video and data services. This is the first and foremost deployment of the server in Singapore. Tekelec, a leading network applications company has supplied about 190 Tekelec 6000 systems throughout the world. 

Viewqwest, CEO Vignesa Moorthy says,

Tekelec's VoIP application server is a highly efficient, cost-effective solution that offers us a range of business-class, next-generation services and the scalability to customize feature sets for a virtually unlimited number of subscribers while maintaining our competitive rates. 

After getting the reorganization from Viewqwest, Tekelec is now planning to expand its networking through out Singapore.

Via: [VoIP Central]

BroadSoft forms new team to serve the VoIP service providers

With VoIP market experiencing steady growth across the Caribbean, Bermuda, Latin America and South America, BroadSoft, a leading VoIP application software provider has formed a new sales team to serve the service providers with greater nimbleness.

Led by Alex Fano, the new team will concentrate on delivering the platform to support hosted PBX and IP Centrex services.   Fano who has been well versed with marketing strategies will take the responsibility of account management in Mexico.

Michael Tessler, CEO and President of BroadSoft quoted,

The BroadWorks platform is compatible with both the North American and European-based technologies used in the region. With BroadSoft, service providers can easily offer hosted VoIP services to meet the needs of geographically distributed enterprises, such as multi-site financial institutions, that are typical in the area.

With this new team, BroadSoft expects to dominate the VoIP market of these regions.

Via: [TMCNet]

Loral Skynet launches new SKYREACH VoIP service in Asia

Loral Skynet and Go2Call have come forward to provide VoIP services in Asia to telecommunications and ISP/Broadband carriers, business and government. They announced the formation of their strategic partnership for VoIP at the CommunicAsia 2006 in Singapore. 

As per the agreement, Skynet, a division of Loral Space & Communications will integrate its global Telstar satellite fleet and networked SkyReachSm IP-based service platform with Go2Call's unique VoIP phone technology. It will provide the customers faster implementation of carrier-grade platforms without investment in full VoIP infrastructures.

Asserting VoIP is reshaping the telecommunications landscape, Loral Skynet President, Patrick Brant said,

Our relationship with Go2Call will offer our customers in Asia an unbeatable combination of operational cost-savings and increased speed of implementation. 

Via: [Antara]

Avaya customers become laureates for VoIP projects of Computerworld

Computerworld has recognized Avaya, the global leader in business communications applications for its effective services. Eight customers of the Avaya have been selected by the IDG's Computerworld Honors Program as Laureates for communications related projects meant for social benefit.

These customers belong from both public and private sector organizations, who implement Avaya MultiVantage(TM) Communications Applications including VoIP networking, contact center, mobility and messaging.

Lou D'Ambrosio, Senior Vice President and President, Sales and Marketing, Avaya commented,

It is especially gratifying to see how Avaya communications technologies have positively affected a broad spectrum of beneficiaries through the creative, strategic vision of our customers.

Via: [CNW]

VoIP gaining momentum in France

VoIP is gaining momentum in France with a large number of cell phone users keen to use Wi-Fi convergence technology to make cheap VoIP calls on their hand-held sets.

Now the VoIP service providers in the country plan to take the advantage of favorable market conditions. The top three broadband providers Orange, Neuf Cegetel and Iliad have undertaken special converged services, which enable the customers to connect to Wi-Fi networks with a dual-mode cell phone. 

Remi Thomas, an analyst with Cheuvreux is optimistic about the growth of VoIP market as it saves a lot of money on user's mobile phone bill. It seems that France is going to be the leader in wireless convergence, preparing ground for the dual-mode handset industry.

Via: [Teleclick]

Verizon goes to court against Vonage for VoIP patent infringement

It seems that the bad phase of Vonage is not over yet. After discouraging debut in the NYST (where it lost 30% of its value) last month, the VoIP provider Vonage now faces a lawsuit allegedly infringing the patent of Verizon.

The second-largest phone company of US, Verizon has filed a lawsuit in a US District Court in Virginia complaining that Vonage infringed on seven of its patents related to its VoIP.

The lawsuit explains that Vonage infringed on patents own by Verizon, the patents explicates technology for completing phone calls between VoIP users and people using phones on traditional public switched network, authenticating VoIP callers, validating VoIP callers accounts and fraud protection by suing Wi-Fi handsets with VoIP services and monitoring VoIP caller usage.

Vonage reacted,

Its services have been developed with its own proprietary technology and technology, licensed from third party.

The company has determined to defend the lawsuit.

Via: [VoIP Central]

Oregan makes Skype Services available in TV

Oregan Networks has added a new feature for the delivery of Skype message alerts and caller ID to TV centric devices. The company's Oregan Media Browser allows instant Internet and IPTV services.

Oregan Media Browser is an embedded software product based on established open standards for web content authoring and distribution. The customers can access Skype messages and calls while watching digital broadcast of IP television with options to accept or reject. The company asserts that the Skype service is the most attractive services available for online users. By delivering Skype applications on TV, Oregan is likely to dominate the market.

Via: [VoIP Magazine]

Minacom adds MTA-Loopback VoIP Testing

Minacom has added MTA-Loopback VoIP testing to its installed DirectQuality R7 service level test automation platform. The platform facilitates cable operators to test VoIP service quality directly to subscriber-deployed multimedia terminal adapters.

Michel Nadeau, CEO and President of Minacom said,

The DiretQuality R7 service level test automation platform is currently used by Cable MSO's Worldwide for VoIP day-of-install, troubleshooting and service quality monitoring. The addition of MTA-loopback testing offers a highly cost-effective, remote-troubleshooting tool that complements probe-to-probe and responder-based test methods to form a total VoIP quality assurance strategy cable operators use to deliver PSTN-quality VoIP to their subscribers.

Via: [TMCNet]

Tollgrade, Minacom agree for VoIP testing initiative

Tollgrade Communications, Inc. and Montreal-based VoIP test vendor Minacom joined forces to deliver integrated testing products for VoIP over cable networks.

As per the agreement, the companies will install products on Tollgrade's newly introduced End-of-Line (EOL) probes and its DOCSIS-based Status Monitoring Cheetah Transponders.

Test calls apply Minacom's VoIP testing technology to measure over 40 service quality measurements, which include speech power, speech quality (MOS), distortion, loss, clipping and noise.

In addition to these, the VoIP technologies of Minacom measures call connectivity metrics like Post Dial Delay and dual-tone multi-frequency transparency.

Via: [CNS Magazine]

Creative Technology introduces Web Cam with VoIP Software

Creative Technology introduced a new Web camera for video instant messaging. The company claims that The Live! Cam Voice model based on its Directional Live! Audio technology integrates dual adaptive array microphones to capture the user's voice reducing background and environmental noise.

The company adds the 1.3 mega pixel camera will capture motionless images up to 5-megapixels through interpolation. The estimated price of the camera is around $99.99. The company will ship this month. 

The Creative WebCam Center software allows users remotely monitor a Creative Web camera. The Web cam will also carry other such programs like Muvee's autoProducer for automatic creation of video and still slideshows, SightSpeed, a PC-based VoIP and video service and OrbSecure for accessing a Web cam through any Internet enabled device.

Via: [VoIP Central]

Go IP, Eicon to launch Diva cards

Eicon Networks Inc. has teamed up with Go IP Solutions Ltd. to introduce Diva Server Telephony cards for the voice, speech and conferencing markets.

The new launch will target the voice, speech and conferencing, fax, unified messaging, remote access and VoIP markets, confirms Chew Weng Hock, South Asia General Manager for Eicon Networks.

Go IP solutions will market Diva Server Telephony cards, the cards manufactured by Canada-based Eicon.

Anil Mittal, MD at Go IP said,

Eicon has partnered with Go IP, which would be the value added reseller for Eicon's products in the Indian market.

These cards are useful to the stock brokering firms, security agencies and end-users as it provide wide range of security solutions.

Via: [TMCNet]

FCC needs to implement E911 for VoIP providers with effect

Although FCC ruling make it compulsory for the VoIP providers to provide E911 to their customers, Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) have still some problems, a 911-solution vendor executive explains.

Jim Shepard, HBF Group executive VP during a webinar titled 'VoIP Myth Busters' quoted,

While the FCC order was a great first step in trying to get VoIP on par, there were   lot of things that were just missed or purposely excluded from the order.

The Consultant Registry presented the webinar.

One such problem is FCC's soft stand towards the law violators. Shepard says that FCC on many occasions has not taken action to guarantee that VoIP providers stick to the mandates in the commission's order.

He added,

In some cases , we actually see VoIP service providers say, ' I know I need to get enhanced 911, but I'm not going to pay for it right now, because nobody's going to slap me on the wrist if I don't have it.

Via: [mrtmag]

Polycom unveils SoundPoint IP 430 VoIP phone

Polycom, Inc has launched SoundPoint IP 430 phone for its SIP based VoIP desktop phones portfolio. It's a two-line phone having a full-duplex speakerphone and graphical LCD.

The company designed the SoundPoint IP 430 to cater the communication needs of the general business users especially for the cubicle workers who conduct a low-to-medium volume of calls.

Michael Seto, Polycom voice communications division voice market & business development VP on the new launch said,

It delivers a robust feature set encompassing traditional telephony features such as call, park, pick-up, hold and transfer, as well as more advanced capabilities such as shared call / bridged line appearance, multiple call appearances and presence.

Via: [jogjaponsel]

VoIP reduces BTC's revenue

A report on 'Promoting Investment in Information and Communication Technologies' insists the government of Bahamas to act on VoIP indicating the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) is losing its revenue on account of illegal competition from the companies providing VoIP services.

The report says,

It may be wise for the government to take stock of the current situation, understand the realities of this technology and its impact on prices, recognize the futility of trying to stop its progress or to police its use and instead encourage BTC to take into account and embrace VoIP technology to reduce the overall cost of the delivery of telecommunications services in The Bahamas.

Bradley Roberts, Minister of Works and Utilities said that BTC earning from long distance calls in 2000 was around $90 million. It fell to $50 million in 2004. The new report also approximates that up to 70 percent of outgoing international traffic bypasses BTC's network, with 30 to 40 percent of business subscribers using VoIP alternatives such as Vonnage and Skype.

Via: [jogjaponsel]

VoIP Supply starts New IP PBX Division

VoIP Supply, LLC, a major VoIP hardware, software and services provider has set up its new division PBX Select. The new division will work on the sale of end-to-end IP PBX solutions for the small and medium business, what VoIP Supply is not capable to handle.

Cory Andrews, Executive Vice President of the new division says,

There is a lot of opportunity in the small medium business market, but we feel that ultimate success in the marketplace depends, to a great extent, on the approach of the vendor. We have designed a business process, combined with the dedicated pre/post sales resources necessary to educate business customers about the technology, help the customer make an informed decision, and provide central management of the overall implementation. Our wide range of vendor offerings allows us, in most cases, to offer clients the exact mix of price and feature set they require.

Via: [VoIP Blog]

TMC, JAA co-host Web summits on VoIP

Collaborating with J Arnold & Associates (JAA), Technology Marketing Corporation (TMC) will host a series of Web Summits focusing on important topics regarding the emerging IP communications space. The web summits are one-hour seminars , TMC and JAA will conduct via video conferencing. Major industry leaders will come together to offer in-depth educational content online.

Rich Tehrani, TMC President and editor-in-chief says ,

The Web Summit concept has proven to be a very successful for both vendors seeking to educate their audience as well as the attendees who need to learn about rapidly-changing technologies.

Via: [TMCNet]

Wick Hill, Lucent sign distribution agreement

Wick Hill has inked an exclusive distribution agreement with Lucent, which manufacturers and supplies the systems, services and software for next-generation communication networks. Wick Hill is a well-recognized global distributor specialized in secure infrastructure solutions for e-business.

With this deal, Wick  Hill will able to supply the vendor's full network and security portfolio including VPN products, bandwidth management and secure mobile data networking technology.

Wick Hill Group chairperson Wick Hill commented,

Voice over IP [VoIP] is under-secured and is a big area of threat. Firms are deploying it for either cost benefit or functional-ity benefit.

Via: [IT Week]

Tiscali launches VoIP service

Tiscali with its one million broadband lines in England has announced the launch of its new VoIP service. Netphone, new VoIP service of Tiscali is free to download. It allows broadband users to make free PC-to-PC phone calls.

According to the company, the new VoIP service facilitates in sending and receiving faxes, text messages. It can also be used to make calls to landlines.  The company charges one pound a minute for UK landlines while international call rates are 3pound a minute.

Via: [The Register]

Stealth, sentitO, Telx join forces for TDM traffic

Three renowned companies sentitO Networks, Stealth Communications and Telx joined forces to speed up the exchange of VoIP with traditional TDM service providers. They will connect Stealth's Voice Peering Fabric (VPF) with sentitO's IVG1200 Intelligent Voice Gateway. It would be free connections. The sentitO gateway will convert TDM to VoIP telephony calls for the traditional service providers as well as for the VPF members.

Shaun Donnelly, VP of sales and marketing at sentitO Networks said, 'This trial service allows service providers to start generating profitable VoIP revenues with less required capital while simplifying their network architecture'. He adds service providers now can easily interface into the VPF.

Via: [New Telephony]

Ascalade finds itself in 'Top 100 Public Company' list

Ascalade Communication Inc., manufacturer of VoIP phones and other wireless communications related products has for the first time entered into the Business in Vancouver's (BIV) annual 'Top 100 Public Company' list. After completing its initial public offering successfully for one year, Ascalade with revenues to the tune of US$117.7million in 2005 is for first time found itself in 'Top Public Company' list along with some of the top technology companies in British Columbia. 

Edmund Ho, President and CEO of Ascalade stated on the company's achievement,

To be listed among other key technology leaders in BC after our successful IPO last year is an indication of the strength and growth in our business. We will continue to work with our key customers and partners on strategic product developments for the VoIP market.

Via: [CNW]

TCS inks a reseller agreement with Level 3

TeleCommunication Systmems, Inc. (TCS) has inked a major reseller deal with Level 3 Communications, which allows TCS to bag Level 3's E9-1-1 network capabilities with TCS' VPC ( VoIP Positioning Center). With this agreement, TCS will offer users with a one-stop shop for all Enhanced 9-1-1 services. 

Dan Allen, Senior VP, Service Bureau Operations for TCS, explains that Level 3 provides the broadest coverage for E9-1-1 call termination. He says,

Furthermore, many synergies exist within the Level 3 and TCS customer bases -- cable companies, Voice Service Providers and others -- and this agreement will enable us to integrate our services to provide our customers with a best-in-class solution. We are enthusiastic to work with Level 3 on delivering these communications solutions to VoIP Service Providers .

Via: [Yahoo! Biz]

Fusion to launch free VoIP service worldwide

Fusion Telecommunications International, Inc., has decided to start its new free efonica VoIP services worldwide in the week of June 19th . The leading VoIP service provider would provide detailed information of the efonica(R) VoIP service and its features on the launching day. 

Matthew Rosen, CEO of Fusion explains,

We have been preparing for this launch for some time, and we are looking forward to sharing what we believe is the next generation of VoIP services.

Via: [TMCNet]

Study: VoIP poses imminent threat for home phones

According to a study conducted by JupiterResearch, VoIP poses imminent threat to home phones in the coming days. The report points out that PC-based VoIP telephony makes strong appeals to some 17 percent of customers in Europe and 21 percent of the consumers like to divert their home telephone to a mobile phone.

Ian Fogg, author and analyst at JupiterResearch said, 'VoIP will convert the home telephone from analogue to digital and, once digital, the home telephone number will become unfixed'. VoIP telephony is gaining momentum in Europe because services are cheap and flexible.

Via: [vnunet]

Thomson gets Eepad's thumb for VoIP rollout in Algeria

Eepad has selected Thomson's Cirpack MultiNode-B switching systems to provide VoIP solutions for both residential and business users in Algeria . By getting this contract, the leading digital video technologies, Thomson plans to expand the marketing of its IP devices and solutions. Eepad is the first and foremost company to provide VoIP services in Algeria. In an effort to ensure full range of quality features including primary line service for domestic users and IP Centrex solutions for business users, Eepad has opted to use Thomson's Cirpack VoIP switches.

Via: [MarketWire]

VoIP Subscribers Set To Skyrocket By 2010

As per a report from IDC, residential VoIP subscribers would skyrocket from 10.3 million to 44 million in 2010. The report says that VoIP would be used in 62% of broadband households by 2010. The growth would be caused by increased broadband penetration and consumers becoming comfortable with VoIP and other new communications technologies.

The simple setup requirements would make consumers more comfortable with this technology and enable to access this technology not only at home but also on the move. The trends causing VoIP adoption would be simplicity, mobility and a need for on demand telephony.

Via crn

Internet Experts Warn of Snooping Problems

A group of internet security experts have said that the efforts of the U.S. government which requires VoIP providers to permit law enforcement agencies to wiretap phone calls could result in cyber security problems to the internet.

Wiretapping would be requiring either a massive re-engineering of the internet or introduction of broad security risks. This could also stall innovations in the fields of internet in the U.S. as hundreds and thousands of dollars would be required for the set up and maintenance by the VoIP providers and other internet applications which provide voice services.

Via pcworld

China’s UPC Enhances Network with Nortel Solution

China’s UPC is improving the network connecting its three separate campuses with a Nortel solution in order to improve communication and ensure online access to advanced learning resources for forty thousand students. This upgraded communications platform supports the exchange of information in real time irrespective of the location and access to high bandwidth and internet based services such as web-based multimedia collaboration, distance learning, VoIP and video conferencing.

An ERS 1600 is also being deployed in order to provide additional support for converged applications along with a series of Nortel Ethernet switches for high throughput and density desktop connectivity.

Via digitalmediaasia

8x8 Receives Patent for Hosted IP-PBX Technology

8x8 has been given the US patent for technology related to the routing of telephone data within hosted VoIP business services such as Packet8 Virtual Office.

As per Bryan R, CEO and Chairman, 8x8:

We are pleased and proud to have been awarded this patent for the technology incorporated in our Packet8 Virtual Office and similar hosted IP-PBX services. More and more businesses are making the switch from traditional PBX phone systems to hosted business VoIP services. Technological achievements, such as those in this invention, that provide scalable, cost-effective, user-friendly control over communications networks, are vital to the successful deployment of hosted VoIP business phone services.

Via yahoo

MSAG Based Routing For VoIP 911 Calls by TCS

TCS would be integrating a Master Street Address Guide based routing feature in its existing VoIP Positioning Center. This solution can be used for both static and nomadic VoIP emergency calls.

As per Roger Hixson, NENA technical issues director:

With the introduction of this new call routing feature, TCS demonstrates a commitment to improving the quality of E911 service for VoIP providers and PSAPs. This development also supports the intent of NENA’s recent VoIP Position Statement on use of MSAG-based call routing.

Via tmcnet

eBay Announces Pilot Integration Of Skype

eBay has announced the pilot integration of Skype. From 19th June, eBay sellers would have the option of adding a SkypeMe button to item listings in 14 select categories. Prospective buyers would be able to contact the sellers via voice or instant messaging. As of now users can add a SkypeMe button to their personal profile but not to the individual items put up for sale.

Given below are the categories which have been selected as eBay is of the opinion that instant communication of such goods would help the sales at the items are either complex or local delivery is required.

Via techcrunch

Lingo Adds Local Number in Israel

Lingo’s customers would have the opportunity of adding local phone number in Israel to their VoIP phone service. It is offering phone numbers associated with Israel’s most densely populated business and cultural center, Tel Aviv. It enables the thriving U.S. Israeli American community to stay in touch with family and business contacts in Israel without high overseas cost.

The numbers associated with Tel-Aviv have been made available to new and existing Lingo VoIP customers. Israel is considered to be one of the top calling destinations for Lingo customers.

Via yahoo

Xfone Receives approval For VoIP Trial in Israel

Xfone has got approval from the Communications Ministry for conducting IP telephony trials. The regulators are taking a cautious approach as to the introduction of VoIP and have being issuing permission for launching trial services only to a handful of alternative operators. Golden Lines became the first to get Israel’s first commercial VoIP concession.

A debate had to be conducted on the regulation of VoIP services in January 2006 but the hearing had to be postponed due to ill health of former P.M. Ariel Sharon. The devate would be rescheduled and VoIP is just few steps places from the top agenda.

Via telegeography

Click Commerce Upgrades Covad’s Demand Chain Management Solution

Click Commerce has upgraded Covad’s demand chain management solution. It would be moving to a software as a service delivery model and utilizing Click Commerce’s hosted solution in order to reduce software and hardware maintenance costs which would improve delivery of enhancements and ensure reliability and security for partner communications.

The Click Commerce Software is an integrated end to end solution which maintains high performance platforms and network infrastructure and manages capacity for global deployments.

As per Debbie Jo Severin, V.P., Covad:

We are aggressively targeting VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) resellers, and we plan to use the Click Commerce solution to help us successfully grow this market. By moving to an on-demand model, we can accomplish this goal, free up valuable IT resources for other projects and reduce our total cost of ownership.

Via cheaphostingdirectory

Wi-Fi Capability of Mobile Phones to Spur Way for VoIP

Wi-Fi capability for smart phones which was initially meant for high speed data connectivity is giving a push to the introduction of VoIP to mobile phone subscribers. As per the executives at Enfora LP, the sales of its Wi-Fi adapter for the Treo 650 are taking off in

North America

and some users are expecting that the device would pave the way for VoIP calling. The adapter referred to as the sled clips onto the Treo.

As per Jeff Newman, senior V.P. business development commented:

People want the sled for connectivity for high speed Internet data now. It doesn't support VoIP yet, but that's where Wi-Fi is headed long term. He said there are some VoIP software applications under development for use with the device, although none have yet made much of an impact in the market.

Via yahoo

Report against U.S. VoIP Snooping Policy

As per a study conducted the Information Technology Association of America, it says that since VoIP relies on a different network architecture from that of traditional phone lines therefore it would result in enormous costs to the industry and could even cause security risks. This report is in response to snooping being permitted on VoIP networks.

The report also states that it would not be possible for the government to expect all products that make use of VoIP to comply with the FCC requirements mandating wiretapping backdoors for government surveillance. The requirement is being backed by Bush administration.

Via silicon

BCM’s PC Less VoIP Phone

BCM has come up with a multi format VoIP Wi-Fi phone which is based on the Windows CE Kernel. It is called the WLAN800I and is compatible with MSN Messenger, Skype, SIP services and MSN Talk.

This phone can function without a PC and it requires an 802.11b/g wireless access point in order to connect to the internet. The phone has a standby time of sixty hours and talk tie of three hours. Its screen measures 2.2 inches and has a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels along with a display of 65,000 colors.

Via voip-weblog

eBay To Merge Skype Into Its Auction

eBay would come up with a plan to integrate Skype’s VoIP service into its U.S. auction business. The company is planning to encourage eBay sellers to embed Skype calling links into auction pages in a few product categories which includes real estate, cars and diamond solitaire rings.

Already the click to call features by which eBay customers can contact sellers via text message, video or voice conference has been the major selling point of eBay’s acquisition of Skype in October for as much as $4.2 billion.

Via dvhardware

Intel Shipping PCI Based VoIP Card

Intel has started shipping their PCI based VoIP card. This card can be installed in any desktop system an allows users to connect standard RJ11 compatible telephones to PCs in order to make calls with VoIP. The hardware acceleration is provided by an Intel Tiger 320 G chipset which supports wideband audio codec’s. The 600SM PCI Phone Adapters are targeted towards SMBs which wants a simplified VoIP system that ties in with desktop PCs.

It is being shipped keeping in mind that Intel’s business vPRO business platform is just around the corner.

Via moneycontrol

$2 Million Funding For InSciTek for VoIP Expansion

InSciTek Microsystems has got $2 million in funding from Cayuga venture Fund for the purpose of bringing total investment in the VoIP equipment developer to $18 million. This money would be used for expanding and improving its Allworx VoIP product line and extend the reach of its sales and marketing efforts to SMBs.

Earlier investors of the company include High Peaks venture Partners, Capital Partners, Cephas Capital Partners and Performance Technologies. The company had earlier received funding for about $5 million to $6 million.

Via redherring

Motorola Introduces Wireless VoIP gateway For DSL Subscribers

Motorola has come up with a wireless gateway which combines voice, data and network functionality for DSL users. Called the Motorola Home Hub (HH) 1620 DSL VoIP Wireless Gateway, it enables carriers to offer high speed data and VoIP services to consumers and it simplifies installation and enhancing security.

It combines powerful communication features along with advanced security and simplified installation. The product consists of 802.11b/g wireless access point, USB 2.0 Host Connection, four-port router, USB 1.1 slave connection and SIP based VoIP adapter.

Via voipcentral

Deadline for Payment Extended For Vonage IPO Customers

Vonage underwriters have extended the time for its customers to pay for the IPO. Underwriters Smith Barney, Deutsche Bank AG and UBS AG are giving the investors’ time till 13th June to pay for the stock. Vonage has confirmed that underwriters have extended the time period for the shareholders by another week in order to settle their trades.

Earlier Vonage had reserved some of its IPO shares for its customers but many customers had backed out of the idea of paying for the IPO after the share crashed.

Via mercurynews

Qualcomm Transmits VoIP Calls over EV-DO Mobile Data Connection

Qualcomm has successfully transmitted wireless VoIP calls over an EV-DO mobile data connection. The recent test which were conducted using CDMA2000 1xEV-DO Revision A technology proved that a mix of voice, data and multimedia services could be delivered realistically over a single converged wireless connection.

This would enable cell phone carriers to conduct wide scale commercial testing of advanced mobile convergence technologies. Verizon and Sprint have upgraded their EV-DO networks in order to incorporate revision A technology and stand to gain from wireless communication convergence.

Via teleclick

VoIP Snooping Gets the Go Ahead

US courts have said that authorities can continue tapping of VoIP calls and VoIP providers must provide access to their networks.

According to Kevin Martin, court chairman:

Enabling law enforcement to ensure our safety and security is of paramount importance. Today, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit affirmed the Commission's decision concluding that VoIP and facilities-based broadband internet access providers have CALEA obligations similar to those of telephone companies. I am pleased that the Court agreed with the Commission's finding, which will ensure that law enforcement agencies' ability to conduct lawful court-ordered electronic surveillance will keep pace with new communication technologies.

A deadline of 14 May 2007 has been set for VoIP companies in order to comply with the decision.

Via theregister

VoIP Enabled GEPON Reference Design Announced By Teknovus

Teknovus has come up with an integrated customer premises equipment reference design based on Texas Instruments TNETV 1061 VoIp platform and Teknovus GEPONONU technologies.

This design enables equipment manufacturers to rapidly develop customer premises equipment optimized for IP based triple play services over fiber. TK 13SV7 combines the strength of TI’s TNETV1061 system on a chip and integrates the company’s Telogy Software for high quality VoIP along with the strength of TI’s DSPs for real time signal processing and teknovus’ IPTV capable TK3713 ONU chip.

Via nikkeibp

FTC Drops 911 Enquiry Against Vonage

Vonage revealed on Thursday that the Federal Trade Commission would not be pursuing any formal action against it over its 911 disclosures and compliance. FTC started investigating the company’s 911 emergency call services and telemarketing actions in January 2005. The compliance portion of the informal investigation is still under progress.

In the afternoon trading the share prices of Vonage fell by around thirty seven cent to $11.62 in the afternoon trading on the new York Stock Exchange. Since its debut the share prices have already fallen by around thirty percent.

Via businessweek

Cisco to Acquire Audium and Metreos

In a cash deal Cisco systems has acquired privately held Audium and Metreos. Cisco would be paying around $28 million for Metreos and $19.8 million for Audium. Metreos is into IP communication development and management services whereas Audium is into VoiceXML speech self service, development and management.

The deal is expected to strengthen Cisco’s unified communications system called Service Oriented Network Architecture or SONA. Both transactions would be closed in Cisco’s fiscal fourth quarter which ends on July 29 and both the companies’ would be integrated into Cisco’a voice technology group.

Via technewsworld

MessageLabs to Go VoIP Way

MessageLabs is seeing VoIP as an application which would be required to be addressed in the future with a decision as to how to do it in the 2007/2008 timeframe. The company would be thinking about VoIP scanning and archiving a year from now and meanwhile a number of smaller projects are underway.

It would also decide on the development of a cutdown vanilla service portfolio along with its full featured ones. The attraction of this idea is to broaden the addressable market as such service would be priced at the entry level and therefore it should appeal to a wider potential user base.

Via chronline

Time Warner Expands IP VPN Capabilities

Time Warner has announced the availability of 1 Gbps and nationwide reach for its IP VPN service to business customers. This solution is for enterprises which are looking to streamline their networks and to connect their headquarters, branch and satellite locations and connect various access technologies to a fully integrated, easily managed network backbone.

Graham Taylor, senior V.P., Time Warner, said:

Our VPN solutions suite is optimized to support a wide range of enterprise customers and their advanced intra-company applications requirements. We have solutions that can be tailor-made for these customers and help them converge their voice, data and Internet networks. We are offering customers more choice for their varied business critical applications.

Via techweb

Avaya to Tackle DoS Attack against World Cup Football Network

FIFA’s networking partner announced that it was expecting hackers to launch huge DoS attacks against the World Cup football network. Avaya has expected that malicious computers would be reprising the to date unsuccessful attacks against the networks servicing the 2002 world Cup, 2003 Women’s World Cup and the warm up tournament for Germany 2006, the Confederations Cup.

Avaya manager has not revealed as to which vendors were involved in security to network this tournament which includes provision of intrusion prevention and virus scanning software.

Via silicon

CE-Infosys Releases High Security VoIP Solution

CE-Infosys has released free secure VoIP solution, [Closed Talk] which includes enhanced features and maintains highest standard of security for free internet based phone calls. It incorporates modern high end security technologies and focuses on giving customers the highest security and privacy required for VoIP communication over the internet.

Combined with highest security and ease of use, [Closed Talk] brings benefits to the customers along with the advantages of VoIP without complicated setup and needs of additional software. This solution reduces VoIP security risks and vulnerabilities for both organizations and home users. It can be freely downloaded at www.ce-infosys.com

Via hardwarezone

Jeffrey Citron Gains despite Vonage’s IPO Poor Performance

The chairman and founder of Vonage, Jeffrey Citron has made a paper profit of almost a half billion dollars from the shares he purchased before the company’s IPO, which is six times his initial investment in the company. We are already aware that the shareholders have suffered losses as the stock prices came down by 29% since the IPO on May 23.

Most of the analyst  were of the opinion that the stock was overpriced by underwriters. Buckingham Research Group, New York termed the stock as an underperforming stock with a price target of $5 per share.

Via washigtonpost

Ten Introduces Mobile IP Messaging Services

Ten has launched commercial services based on voice and mobile internet messaging services, e-mail and MSN Messenger. It is offering an unlimited subscription to MSN Messenger and to push mobile e-mail. The subscription to either MSN Messenger or mobile e-mail services is avail able for €6 per month and one can subscribe to both the services at €8 per month. The service makes use of GPRS and is available on java applications which are downloaded over the air.

It is also offering postpaid voice subscription starting from €22 per month for one hour and has lined up three subsidized phone starting from €39.

Via ovum

Glentel Enters Into Agreement with Vonage Canada

Glentel has entered into an agreement with Vonage Canada for the purpose of selling Vonage phone service at and La Cabine Téléphonique retail mall locations and Glentel’s WirelessWave, Telephone Booth.

This agreement is expected to build on their current retail success and make it easier for Canadians to switch from their current phone service to Vonage. The company is confident that the customers would be receiving the in store support which they need to make the right choice for their internet phone service.  As of now Vonage is available at more than 1,300 retail outlets across Canada.

Via newswire

Skype Plans Hardware Certification Center in China

Skype is planning to establish a testing and certification center in Taiwan because of the large number of applications for Skype product certification by many Taiwan based makers. As of now Skype has only one testing and certification center at its headquarters in Tallinn, Estonia and a commissioned testing center in Beijing, China.

As per Skype statistics, VoIP services have a penetration rate of 27% ion Taiwan which is higher as compared to 13% in China and 4% in U.S.

Via digitimes

Miami Man Arrested For VoIP Fraud

A man from Miami has been arrested for stealing more than ten million minutes of internet telephone service. Edwin Andres Pena received money from unsuspecting companies for providing phone service which he had stolen by hacking into the networks of internet phone providers He garnered around one million from the scheme which he spent on real estate, BMW cars, a forty foot long motorboat and a Cadillac Escalade SUV.

Pena had hired Robert Moore, a hacker for the purpose of identifying vulnerable computer networks of internet phone providers. After hacking into these networks, Pena routed calls through fifteen of them.

Via miami

eTelcharge Files Application For Unique Billing Process

eTelcharge.com has filed a patent application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for its unique billing process employing VoIP.  This patent application is expected to strengthen eTelecharge’s positioning to offer consumers enhanced online security and improved functionality for interactive transactions conducted via increasingly popular VoIP telecommunication services.

Merchants who would be using the eTelcharge VoIP process would be realizing the benefits of increased customer confidence and transaction convenience made possible by the new technology.  This unique process supports eTelcharge’s mission of combating internet fraud through a new method of transaction processing and verification. As of now no other e-commerce provider comes with this feature.

Via marketwire

CounterPath to Enhance Customer Experience for VoIP

CounterPath would be enhancing the customer experience for VoIP communications through integrating its software with the Intel 600SM PCI Phone Adapter. The users of CounterPath’s eyebeam SIP based softphone along with any PC utilizing the Intel 600SM PCI Phone Adapter would be able to make calls utilizing standard phones, corded or cordless.

The company has worked with Intel for optimizing and integrating CounterPath’s softphone and Intel’s product which includes support of wideband audio codecs for improved voice quality. Their 600SM product contains and RJ11 port enabling the user to plug their traditional corded or cordless phones directly into their PC to place VoIP calls seamlessly through CounterPath’s softphone.

Via tmcnet

Cable & Wireless Deploys NexTone’s MSX

Cable & Wireless has deployed NexTone Communications Multiprotocol Session Exchange (MSX) which would allow Cable & Wireless to utilize VoIP for its international carrier customer base. MSX is helping the company tackle new market opportunities while building a substantial base for IP service offerings for the future.

Dan Dearing, V.P., NexTone said:

NexTone's session management technology goes beyond basic IP interconnects to enable Cable & Wireless to intelligently manage all aspects of the real-time IP sessions running on the company's networks. This gives Cable & Wireless the option to add new revenue-generating services, routes and partners to its network for greater service reach for customers, and help maintain its competitive edge.

Via tmcnet

James Sullivan Quits 8x8

8x8 has announced that James Sullivan, CFO of the company has resigned from his position from June 30 in order to pursue other career opportunity. There is no agreement between the two parties and the company has initiated for a search of a new CFO and is working with James Sullivan on an orderly transition process.

Mr. James Sullivan said:

I have truly enjoyed working at 8x8 and will continue to be a strong advocate of the Company and its services. While this decision was difficult, I believe the change offers a personal opportunity to further my career and expand my expertise.

Via prnewswire

Intel Launches Phone Adapter

Intel has come up with Intel 600SM PCI Phone Adapter which is a low profile add in card that employs several chips to enable phone interface, improved voice quality etc. Users are required to install the board, plug existing telephone and install a program called SoftPhone.

The phone adapter provides opportunities for lowering telephone bill costs and provides ease of use to those who are not familiar with special headsets for calling using computers or not willing to use a special telephone designed for VoIP services.While using this adapter one cannot make emergency calls in a number of cases.

Via xbitlabs

Sonus and Atreus Launch Self Care Access Portal

Sonus Networks and Atreus Systems has come together to launch a self care access portal as part of the Sonus Certified Voice over Broadband system. This deal makes Atreus a member of the Sonus Open Service Partner Alliance. This partnership would enable the company to deliver an integrated portal for service providers in order to automate the configuration and management of VoIP features.

The portal would be delivering a web based self care service for consumer VoIP, detailed logs of incoming, outgoing and missed calls, detailed logs of incoming, voicemail download and playback and entry level system for an easier migration to full self provisioning systems for wholesale VoIP, business VoIP and IMS based offerings.

Via tmcnet

GlobalTouch Deploys Video over VoIP Application

GlobalTouch Telecom has deployed a plug and play video over VoIP application which combines video telephony hardware and SIP software functions. It worked with Leadtek research for developing the videophones and overcame video signal handling and compression challenges.

There are two ways of making video calls, Leadtek desktop phone or GlobalTouch’s video softphone which comes with its VoIP service. The software has been developed only server side T.38 Fax support. It implies that the company can provide double fax transmission speed and higher level of transmission reliability.

Via xchangemag

Samsung Unveils VoIP Handsets

Samsung Business Communication Systems has come up with a new line of VoIP and digital handsets for SMBs. Called the OfficeServ ITP-5100 series, it uses standard IP protocols and is compatible with all of Samsung’s converged and IP enabled OfficeServ systems.

As per the company reports the phone is suitable for home, remote and satellite offices. Companies could easily expand the systems by adding more sets to the LAN. All the devices have a five fixed function keys, LCD soft keys, duplex speakerphone, digital volume controls and a selection of ring tones and PoE.

Via phoneplusmag

Nortel Releases new VoIP Softswitch

Nortel has come up with the Nortel communication server which is a second generation VoIP softswitch that allows small and medium sized wireline service providers to meet their rising subscriber demand for local and long distance voice and voice and next generation services.

It enables service providers to leverage their existing investment and infrastructure by offering compatibility with legacy networks. It also provides full range of legacy network interfaces and regulatory requirements which includes E-911 and CALEA. The field trials would start from forth quarter of 2006 and the general availability would start in the first quarter of 2006.

Via cxotoday

USFCC Auctions Airspace Airwaves

An auction has been completed by United States Federal Communications Commission for airspace airwaves which would result in the availability of wireless internet on U.S. flights. FCC has offered two pieces of mile high spectrum, one band at 1MHz and another at 3MHz. The new licensees would be offering in flight phone calling, internet access and entertainment services based on IP technology which would open the doors for VoIP calls from aircraft.

LiveTV secured the 1 MHz spectrum whereas AirCell got the 3MHz band.

Via voipnews

Cosmoline to Expand VoIP Network

Cosmoline is using the services of Veraz Networks for expanding its services with Veraz’s ControlSwitch softswitch. This step would enable Cosmoline to gradually replace eight of its legacy switch with a single Veraz Control Switch. Veraz is planning to deploy 20,000 VoIP  ports and  expanding Cosmoline’s VoIP network which carries services over fifty million usage minutes monthly.

It had earlier deployed the Veraz Long Distance Network Compression system using Veraz’s I-Gate 4000 media gateways which can be used for VoIP trunking and switched VoIP services.

Via tmcnet

VoIP to Be Offered At Cyber Cafes of Indian Railways

Indian railways would be introducing cyber cafes at eight two railway stations in the country. As of now forty locations have been identified and work has commenced whereas the remaining stations are being finalized. These cafes would be offering services such as VoIP, internet browsing, e-mail services, fax and video conferencing.

Railtel which is a public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Railways is coming up with these features packed cyber café’s under the brand name of Cyber Express. It is also into discussion with content service providers for providing content through these cyber cafes.

Via andhracafe

Avaya Enters Tentative Agreement with IBEW and CWA

Avaya has entered into a tentative national agreement on a three year contract with the Communications Workers of America (CWA) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). The tentative agreement covering around 3,000 employees would be submitted to the CWA and IBEW membership for ratification votes which concludes in four to six weeks. When the agreement is ratified it would be retroactive to may 23, 2006.

Avaya has been designing, building and managing communication networks for more than one million businesses worldwide and it includes ninety percent of the Fortune Five companies.

Via prnewswire

PC World Names Vonage as Best Voice Service Of 2006

PC World has named Vonage America’s broadband technology as one of the best products and services of 2006. The selection was made on the basis of audio clarity, ease of use and value for money. It highlights features such as call forwarding during power outages, voice mail and quality.

Harry McCracken, editor in chief, PC World commented:

Products that win PC World's World Class Awards set the standard for excellence in the IT and consumer electronics industries.

Whereas Jeffrey Citron, Chairman and Chief Strategist, Vonage said:

PC World is widely recognized as knowing the pulse of the ever-changing world of technology and what consumers want. Our selection as best VoIP Service of 2006 is an honor that recognizes Vonage's dedication to offering our customers high-quality and low-cost communications choices.

Via voipdeals

FCC Recommends VoIP Tax

It seems that VoIP users would have to shell out more. FCC Chairman Kevin Martin has recommended that VoIP providers should pay a 7% tax and it is expected that the tax would be passed on to the consumers. VoIP providers would have to pay the taxes to the USF due to which subsidized telecom services are available in rural and low income regions, libraries and schools.

The proposal would be requiring the phone companies' to pay a fee equal to seven percent of the customer's monthly bills or around $1.75 for an average $25 tab. A decision on this is expected to be taken by 15th June.

Via: [VoIP Central]

CleverCalling.com to Offer Free Prepaid Phone Coupon

CleverCalling.com has partnered with a leading International prepaid phone card company in order to provide its prepaid calling international site visitors with a $10 of free prepaid phone card coupon code so that it could reduce the number one day in the U.S. for the most collect calls. As per a study conducted by AT&T on Fathers day, it revealed that Fathers Day collect calls ranked as the number one day in the year when the most collect calls were made, however an estimated $1 bn is spent each year in America for cheap Father’s Day gifts.

This $10 free phone card coupon code provides the visitors with $10 in free prepaid phone call cards in order to remove the father day fact from history. The card would be expiring on 20th June.

Via prweb

Skype as Standard on Dell Laptops

Skype would now be available as a standard on the new Dell XPS M1210 and M2010 laptops. This would be a better option-using Skype would be less annoying as compared to a mobile phone as its voice quality is better as compared to an average mobile connection. People would not have to strain their vocals and if they have to say something personal they could always use the instant messaging option for conveying that.

Certainly it would emerge as a better option for making calls as compared to cell phones.

Via inflighthq

Vonage and D-Link Launch Voice Terminal Adaptor

Vonage and D-Link have come together to provide a co-branded Voice terminal Adaptor which is a two line device designed for Vonage service. It is the first collaboration between Vonage and D- Link and this adaptor is available for $49.99 with a $40 rebate after sixty days of service. Users could also get the VTA for free when they sign up with Vonage on the Vonage web site.

It supports up to two lines of internet telephone service and includes features such as call forwarding, call waiting and caller ID with name.

Via pcmag

Survey States VoIP Users Satisfied With Service

As per a survey carried out by SupportSoft, it has been found out that existing users are quite satisfied with their service. Sixty one percent of the people who were surveyed said that they were satisfied with the service even though thirty four percent said that they had to call a technician within ninety days of the initial service installation because of some problem.

The survey also stated that cable VoIP subscribers were nearly twice as confident in the reliability of their VoIP service as those who were using these specialized services focused specifically on VoIP delivery.

Via pcmag

Dell in Bed with Skype

Skype and Dell have struck a deal that will result in Skype's VoIP software being pre-installed on all new Dell XPS notebooks. The Dell XPS M1210 and M2010 are available worldwide. According to TMCnet IP Communications:

"As the leading notebook supplier, Dell is committed to delivering cutting-edge technology that provides voice and video connectivity virtually anywhere," said Brett Faulk, worldwide marketing director, consumer notebooks for Dell in a statement. "Teaming with Skype, the trend setter in Internet communications will provide our customers the very best experience when reaching out and staying in touch with friends and family around the world."

Read more: Skype Teams with Dell for Faster VoIP Calls

Avaya Ends Five Year partnership With Touchbase

Avaya has ended its five year partnership with Touchbase after the integrator refused to sign a new contract which restricted its ability to offer services. The M.D. of Touchbase, Magnus stated that the integrator refused to agree to stipulations which restricted its service capabilities.

The dispute was between the local branches of the integrator and the vendor and their relationship was still strong in the UK and Europe. The integrator had refused to agree to stipulations which restricted its service capabilities and Avaya was asking them to sign a new contract which precluded the company from providing services to its client base and limited services to others.

Via: [VoIP Central]

AT&T Lands Multimillion Dollar Contract from Donnelley

AT&T has landed a multimillion dollar global networking contract from R.R. Donnelley & Sons. As per the agreement, AT&T would be providing an Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network based on its Multiprotcol Label Switching platform which prioritizes and directs network traffic.

The service would be allowing Donnelley to transit from traditional phone services to VoIP technology. This contract is a renewal and expansion on existing strategic relationship in which AT&T provides Donnelley with a wide range of networking services which includes local, long distance and conferencing services.

via [bizjournals]

SunRocket Strikes a Three Year Deal with Synchronoss

SunRocket has entered into a three year agreement with Synchronoss Technologies for its ActivationNow Technology Platform. This would provide the customers of SunRocket with a scalable on demand solution.

Rob Mainor, CEO, SunRocket said:

By partnering with market leading solution providers like Synchronoss, SunRocket is poised to continue its explosive growth in the VoIP category. The advanced Synchronoss platform and its on-demand feature set provide SunRocket with the necessary automated support structure to scale our order management system and meet the growing consumer demand for our service.

The platform speeds revenue through the order management workflow so that SunRocket could simplify and automate the process of activating and delivering their services across disparate systems.

Via theopenpress

SigProvider 2.0 Announced By Signate

Signate has announced SigProvider 2.0 which is a major enhancement to its hosted VoIP PBX solution for telephone providers with up to 3,000 extensions. SigProvider enables service providers to offer both consumer and enterprise telephone service.

It includes a new forms based interactive voice response builder so that customers can configure their own voice response system. It can be scaled for increasing call capacities by adding additional call management servers. The price of SigProvider starts from $8,000 for the first customer provided 32 bit server which includes installation and billing integration through a customer provided Radius server.

Via businesswire

Brazil Gets GlobeTel’s VoIP Platform

GlobeTel Communications has come up with a VoIP based communications network for Brazilian iLigue.com.br. This portal provides Brazilian telecom customers calling services locally and around the world. VozBrasil.com was launched two weeks ago and iLigue is being rolled out along with GlobeTel’s Brazilian partners. This network enables Brazilian residents to obtain a telephone number in Brazil, states or any other country without the requirement for either broadband internet access or special equipment.

Dan Erdberg, Division president, GlobeTel’s VoIP Division stated:

We've developed a system specifically for Brazil that not only allows our customers to have local phone numbers and service in Brazil, with the ability to call within their state or anywhere in the country at a very low cost, but it also gives them the ability to have a US-based phone number that can be forwarded to their Brazil-based cell phone, home phone or office phone.

Via ipcommunications