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Alcatel-Lucent Releases First Products in OpenTouchTM Suite
On November 7, 2011, Alcatel-Lucent (www.alcatel-lucent.com) released the first products in its new OpenTouch suite for mid-size and larger businesses, introducing several new IP telephony platform options and pre-installed software applications that address some key business trends and challenges such as one number service, Web conferencing, presence, Instant Messaging and video interactions. There are also enhancements to existing products, namely the Business integrated Communication Server R2.3 (BiCS), OmniTouch 8400 Instant Communications Suite R6.5 and VitalSuite R11, as well as enhancements to the company’s small and mid-sized business (SMB) offer, OmniPCX Office (R8.1).
New OpenTouch platform options:
- OpenTouch Business Edition – This all-in-one server solution (industry standard server) targets the mid-market with a pre-installed software suite for telephony, unified messaging, instant messaging/presence, video, multimedia conferencing and mobility. There are three platform options for enterprises: (1) OpenTouch Business Edition 500 Users (Appliance Server), (2) OpenTouch Business Edition 1500 Users (Appliance Server) or (3) OpenTouch Business Edition Hosted 500 users (Blade Server for data center environments available as a managed or hosted service). OpenTouch Business Edition is a natural evolution of the earlier Alcatel-Lucent BiCS single server solution (Business integrated Communication Solution) which is still available – see below.
- OpenTouch Multimedia Services 1500 Users – This software suite is available as an add-on for existing OmniPCX Enterprise Communication (OXE) customers to enable a smooth migration to the OpenTouch multimedia environment. The software handles up to 1,500 users and is pre-installed on an industry standard server or is available as software-only. An upgrade to OXE Release 10 is required for at least one OXE node in the network.
Alcatel-Lucent explains that the scope of applications delivered with OpenTouch Multimedia Services is the same as that of OpenTouch Business Edition. Generally the suite of applications aims to deliver a seamless user experience with native multimedia communications (voice, video, IM, presence, etc.) across multiple device types (the new Alcatel-Lucent OmniTouch 8082 My IC Phone, traditional desk phones, mobile devices, PCs and laptops, etc.).
OpenTouch application suite:
- Voice Features. The telephony features of the OmniPCX Enterprise are combined with a new feature set developed for OpenTouch users (e.g. transparent session shift from one device to another, native conferencing, etc.).
- Multi-device Support. The user can have multiple devices with one number and shift easily from one device to another without interrupting the current conversation such as from a desk phone to a mobile phone or from an Instant Message to a video call.
- Multi-media Support. Users can take advantage of native simultaneous or separated voice, Instant Messaging and video interactions, as well as Rich Presence (SIMPLE and telephony) so that participants can use different media (voice, data or video) within the same conversation.
- Web Conferencing. Native (built-in) functionality for Web conferencing and collaboration supports application sharing, live presentations, etc.
- Unified Messaging. Functionality includes single storage and presentation of messages with integration to third party solutions such as Microsoft Exchange and IBM Sametime.
- External Web Application Integration. Standards such as HTML5, REST, SCXML and others are supported for business process integration. Alcatel-Lucent's new smart desk phone called OmniTouch 8082 My IC Phone has a published SDK and Developer Application portal that enables support for tailored applications such as HVAC building control or twitter feeds. My IC Phone is compatible with OpenTouch Multimedia Services and OpenTouch Business Edition, as well as the latest release of Alcatel-Lucent’s OmniPCX Office (OXO) Rich Communication Edition (RCE) 8.1 for SMBs which is also generally available as of November 7, 2011.
- Integrated Unified Management (OmniVista 8770). This single management platform is used to install, deploy, maintain and operate the system, the users, their devices and all applications listed above. It also includes VitalSuite for real-time performance management.
Installed Base:
While new and existing customers can choose to deploy the latest OpenTouch offer, Alcatel-Lucent is also mindful of its installed base of OXE customers and BiCS customers (R2.2 or earlier), offering them a migration path to OpenTouch Business Edition 1.0. This migration will replace the A46x5 messaging product with an embedded OmniTouch 8440 messaging solution since Business Edition includes this voice and unified messaging. For system administration, the A4760 management solution will be replaced by embedded OmniVista 8770 unified management. The OmniTouch 8400 Instant Communications Suite (ICS) can be replaced by OpenTouch Unified Communications services; however, users that have ICS can continue to utilize these applications if desired. Alternatively, existing BiCS customers can simply upgrade to BiCS R2.3 and take advantage of some enhancements to ICS, 8660 My Teamwork, 8450 Fax Server and OmniVista4760. BiCS R2.3 has a planned software-only upgrade to OpenTouch Business Edition 1.0.
General Availability: Alcatel-Lucent OpenTouch solutions are available as of November 2011 in most countries (Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Libya and Syria are excluded). My IC Phone is also generally available as of November 2011 and compatible with OpenTouch Multimedia Services (OmniPCX Enterprise R10) and OpenTouch Business Edition, as well as the latest release of Alcatel-Lucent’s OmniPCX Office (OXO) Rich Communication Edition (RCE) 8.1 for SMBs which also adds support for My IC Web for Office applications, the Alcatel-Lucent 4135 IP Conference Phone, third party SIP devices and enhancements for SIP trunking.
Cisco Advances Business Edition 3000 With IM/Presence Services and Video Calling
Quick Take: Cisco adds new functionality to its Cisco Business Edition 3000, an all-in-one platform for mid-size businesses (to 300 users) that has a foundational (essential) feature set at a more affordable price. The new version 8.6.2 adds presence/IM services, an attendant console capability with paging, video phones and SIP trunking support. Cisco also updates its virtualized platform, Business Edition 6000, with integrations for presence/IM services and a new 50-user bundle for smaller businesses. Read more below.
Overview
Cisco (www.cisco.com) Business Edition 3000 is an all-in-one solution specifically designed for mid-sized businesses with 75-300 users (400 total devices) and up to 10 sites (nine remote sites) with centralized call processing. Cisco Unified Communications Manager software, the Cisco Unity Connection messaging solution (12 ports) and Cisco Unified Mobility are pre-installed on a single Cisco Media Convergence Server, the 7890 appliance.
Business Edition 3000 was first introduced in February 2011 to address mid-size business requirements at an affordable price. The system incorporates what Cisco refers to as “Foundational Unified Communications features” or essential capabilities required/desired by mid-size businesses, specifically typical call processing features and voicemail, as well as a single-number-reach (SNR) application that manages, routes, and connects calls between an IP desk phone and mobile cellular or home phone.
Business Edition 3000 has a simplified GUI wizard management interface that exposes only specific Unified Communications Manager, Unity Connection and Unified Mobility features for fast and easy installation and deployment. In other words, the GUI simplifies the installation and management process because a certain amount of enterprise applications have been converted to default parameters, so the set-up technician does not have to go through parameters and screens that do not apply to their particular architecture. For example, the technician can set up the voicemail and auto attendant features from Unity Connection in Business Edition 3000, but not the more advanced features such as speech recognition or text-to-speech. Business Edition 3000 also has pre-installed dial plans, user locales, tones and localized administration for ease of international deployments.
Business Edition 3000 is one of three Cisco Business Edition platforms and differs from the earlier Business Editions 5000 and 6000 in that it includes only an essential feature set, has a simpler GUI wizard for administration and sells at a lower price point ($100 per user for a 100-user system). Cisco’s Business Edition 5000 and 6000 models are for customers that want more advanced collaboration features (for example, BE 3000 does not support call center functionality). Cisco Business Edition 6000 is deployed as an all-in-one system using VMware server virtualization technology; the 6000 handles 50-1,000 users (there is a new 50-user bundle) and combines Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Unity Connection, Unified Presence, Unified Contact Center Express and VMware ESXi on a single Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) C200 M2 Rack-mount server.
The latest version 8.6.2 of Cisco Business Edition 3000 addresses some of the key trends in business communications, including video and cloud-based services.
What’s New?
- Cloud-based IM/Presence. Instant Messaging (IM) and Presence functionality is available as a cloud-based service using either Cisco’s WebEx Connect or Cisco Jabber clients. Like Cisco WebEx Connect, Cisco Jabber can be directly connected to Cisco WebEx, but Cisco Jabber can also be used as a softphone connected directly to a Cisco Business Edition 3000 for example. While both have similar functionality, Cisco Jabber is available for other platforms, including Mac, Android, iPhone, BlackBerry and Nokia. A Jabber for Windows application will be available shortly, according to Cisco.
- Video Phones. Cisco Business Edition 3000 8.6.2 adds support for Cisco Unified IP Phones 8941 and 8945 with built-in video cameras and color displays for point-to-point, 2-way video calling. These models add to several phones already supported by Business Edition, including Cisco’s eco-friendly Unified IP Phone 6900 Series and the Cisco Unified SIP Phone 3905, an entry-level single-line phone for basic voice communications in common areas such as manufacturing floors or hallways or in cubicle, retail, or classroom settings. Cisco’s Unified IP Conference Station 7937G phone is available for meeting rooms. Analog endpoints can be connected via the Cisco VG224 voice gateway. Cisco plans to add support for its Unified Wireless IP Phone 7925 in the next release.
- Attendant Console. Business Edition 3000 supports the new Attendant Console Compact Edition PC-based application for incoming call handling and routing (no server required). Attendants can visually monitor other extensions and use a person-to-person internal paging feature (group paging will be added in the next release). The Cisco Unified IP Phone 8961 with a color Key Expansion Module attached can also be used as an attendant console.
- SIP Trunking. The system adds support for SIP trunking as a lower cost alternative to traditional PSTN lines; the Cisco Unified Border Element (CUBE) is required since BE 3000 does not terminate SIP trunks directly. For trunking, BE 3000 also has two T1/E1 ports built-in and supports analog trunks via Cisco’s SPA8800.
- International Support. New country-specific dial plans simplify and speed system deployment for the U.S., Canada, China, India, Russia and Australia with additional dial plans coming for the UK, France, Spain and Italy in first quarter 2012.
General Availability: Cisco Business Edition 3000 8.6.2 is available as of November 2011; pricing starts at $100 per user for a 100-user system. The next release 8.6.3 is due out in mid-December and will add more features, including multiple call pickup, dial by name, direct transfer to voicemail, group paging, support for Cisco’s WiFi phone (7925) and additional country support (France, Italy, Spain and the UK).
Cisco Updates Unified Communications 500, Expands Scale and Features
Quick Take: Cisco updates its current Unified Communications 500 platforms (UC540 and UC560) and associated management application, Cisco Configuration Assistant (CCA), with support for additional capacity (up to 138 IP phones on the UC560), new locale packs, Auto Attendant improvements and new voice features. Both platforms now come equipped with 24 user licenses, free of charge, helping small businesses to deploy the right size system more affordably.
Overview:
Cisco (www.cisco.com) has enhanced its Smart Business Communications System with new capabilities on the Unified Communications 540 and 560 platforms that provide telephony, messaging and mobility within a single, compact and easily-administered device. UC 500 combines call processing software and messaging and support for Cisco Unified IP Phones. UC500 comes preloaded with all software and licenses. Customers can choose from several configurations (UC540 or UC560 devices), ranging from 24 to 138 IP phones (124 users). The earlier UC520 is no longer for sale as of September 13, 2011. UC500 systems are managed by the Cisco Configuration Assistant (CCA) PC-based application with graphical user interface (GUI) that simplifies configuration, deployment and administration.
UC500 supports several Cisco IP phone series, including the eco-friendly Cisco Unified IP phones 6900 Series and the dual-protocol, entry-level Cisco SPA 300 that utilize Cisco’s Smart Phone Control Protocol (SPCP) with the Cisco UC500 system or Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) with Cisco’s UC300 system or third-party call controllers. Earlier Cisco SPA 500 phones are also available, including the SPA 525G2 IP Phone with five lines and a color display, wired or wireless connectivity and support for forward-looking functionality such as MP3 ring tones, digital photos and an RSS feed.
What’s New?
Cisco UC500 Software Pack 8.2.0 and Cisco Configuration Assistant (CCA) 3.1 add:
- UC540 and UC560 now come equipped with 24 user licenses, free of charge. This provides 16 additional licenses standard on the UC540 and eight additional licenses standard on the UC560, allowing very small businesses to deploy the right size system more affordably.
- UC560 scales to 124 users (up from 104) with a corresponding increase in voice mailboxes (the system actually supports connection of 138 IP phones, but only 124 actual users due to the voice mailbox limit). An optionally purchased 8GB compact flash device supports up to 132 hours of voicemail (recommended for more than 50 users).
- UC500 locale packs ease the localization process for phone language files, voicemail language files and network tones.
- Auto Attendant enhancements include bilingual greetings and prompts in the selected language, dial by first name and an alternate greeting; five AAs are allowed (up from three).
- Bilingual voicemail lets callers hear the voicemail greeting in one of two languages.
- New voice features include phone soft key customization. Ten templates can be defined and applied to any IP phone on the system, including allowing some phones to be localized in one language and other phones in an alternate language.
General Availability: The latest UC500 Software Pack 8.2.0 and CCA 3.1 are available as of July 31, 2011. Existing customers can upgrade their UC500 platform by downloading the software pack.
ESI Communications Servers Add Mobile Twinning, New IP Phones
Quick Take: ESI recently added some new features for its Communications Servers, including mobile twinning that simultaneously rings a second number (an internal extension or external number such as a cell phone). Two new phones are now available with functionality over and above the company's earlier Feature Phone; the new ESI 60 Business Phone and the ESI 40 Business Phone have large, adjustable, backlit displays and built-in headset jacks, and the ESI 60 has a high-definition full-duplex speakerphone, paperless label buttons and visual voice mail. Read more below.
Overview:
Estech Systems Incorporated (ESI) www.esi-estech.com recently added a new mobile twinning feature and new IP phones for its family of ESI Communications Servers that target smaller, single-site businesses and larger, multi-site enterprises. The ESI Communications Servers offer varying levels of capacity, as well as flexibility in the mix of digital and IP technologies. Platforms include: the ESI-50 for smaller businesses (32 digital, 8 analog and up to 12 IP stations), the compact ESI-100 Communications Server (up to 84 digital or IP stations), the ESI-200 which targets small or mid-sized business (190 digital or IP stations), the ESI-600 introduced in 2006 for larger offices or multi-site customers (408 digital or IP stations) and ESI’s largest platform to date, the ESI-1000 with data redundancy to satisfy larger enterprise needs (816 digital or IP stations). An entry-level model without IP support, ESI-50L, is also available (40 analog or digital stations).
Mobile Twinning
ESI recently added support for a convenient mobile twinning capability that pairs an extension with one alternate number such as a cell phone, so incoming calls ring both phones; if the call goes unanswered, it is routed to the desk extension’s mailbox. The twinning feature also allows the user to transfer the call to another extension, voice mail, a department or other external number from the twinned device (such as from a cell phone) using a key sequence.
Aside from the new, standard mobile twinning feature, there are a number of capabilities for mobile workers previously available such as an off-premises reach-me feature and a cell/pager notification feature for workers on the go, as well as the optional Mobile Messaging capability which converts a voice mail to a WAV file and sends to an external e-mail address (could go to a smartphone, for example). Mobile workers can also choose to use ESI’s VIP Softphone (in conjunction with their laptop), which operates over Wi-Fi. Or, they can deploy the ESI Cellular Management Device for routing inbound/outbound cell phone calls through their desk phone via Bluetooth technology. There are also two ESI Cordless Handsets, available in digital or IP (local or remote) versions.
ESI 40 and ESI 60 Business Phones
ESI’s newest desktop phones offer functionality over and above the company’s earlier Feature Phone. The ESI 60 Business Phone and the ESI 40 Business Phone have large, adjustable, backlit displays and built-in headset jacks, and the ESI 60 adds a high-definition full-duplex speakerphone, paperless label buttons and visual voice mail.
The ESI 60 Business Phone targets office personnel with heavier phone usage. The phone has dual displays with a lower display associated with 48 programmable feature keys and paperless button labels which can be programmed as line keys (outside line access), stations keys (user extensions, department numbers, mailboxes), speed dial numbers or other feature keys. Voicemail is displayed visually making it easy for users to prioritize messages. A blue voicemail key blinks when there are new messages; the upper display shows the number of new and old messages stored, while the lower display shows the eight most recent messages. ESI 60 comes in three versions: ESI 60IP (Gigabit Ethernet IP or 10/100 Ethernet IP) and ESI 60D (digital). Each ESI 60 Business Phone supports two optional 60-key Expansion Consoles.
The ESI 40 Business Phone has a three-line display with adjustable backlighting, 16 programmable feature keys, fixed-function keys, a headset jack and a speakerphone. ESI 40 also has convenient voicemail functionality; a blue voicemail key blinks when there are new messages, and the single display shows how many new and old messages are stored. ESI 40 comes in two versions: ESI 40IP (10/100 Ethernet IP) and ESI 40D (digital). Each ESI 40 Business Phone supports two optional 60-key Expansion Consoles.
General Availability: Mobile Twinning and the new ESI 40 and ESI 60 Business Phones are available today from ESI resellers. The phones are compatible with ESI Communications Servers (ESI-1000, ESI-600, ESI-200, ESI-100, ESI-50) running system software version X.5.37 or higher. ESI will also introduce the new ESI IP Server 900 by early 2012 in North America, an IP-centric system with direct integration for IP phones and SIP trunking and most of the same functionality as the earlier ESI Communications Servers, plus a few new features such as Find-me (five alternate numbers), an option for Meet-me Conferencing and T.38 fax support.
Iwatsu Enterprise-CS R9.0 Simplifies ICON IP Telephone Features
Quick Take: ICON Voice Networks responds to dealers and customers looking to simplify the user experience. Iwatsu Enterprise-CS 9.0 adds new features for ICON phone users, including a new one-touch ACD transfer key and new hunt group login/logout feature. R9.0 software builds on improvements introduced in early 2011 that changed the architecture of the system (direct connection of SIP trunks) and added new mobility and SIP station features. Read more below.
ICON Voice Networks, LLC (formerly Iwatsu America, Inc.) www.iconvoicenetworks.com announces new features for the Iwatsu Enterprise-CS (Communications Server), a converged TDM/IP communication system for small and medium businesses (SMBs) that scales to 1,024 IP ports in a single gateway cabinet. ICON gained licensing rights to distribute and develop the Iwatsu Enterprise-CS product following the acquisition of the assets of Iwatsu America, Inc. (Iwatsu Voice Networks) back in April 2011. Since then, ICON has continued to distribute and support Iwatsu products in North America, but also to develop the Enterprise-CS IP-PBX and related applications under this license agreement with Iwatsu Electric, Co., Ltd. in Tokyo, Japan. ICON also partners with and distributes telephony platforms from Alcatel-Lucent (OmniPCX Enterprise Communication Server) for large enterprises and TECOM (TOS 3000) for small business needs.
Based on dealer and customer requests, the new Enterprise-CS Release 9.0 software (developed 100% by ICON) simplifies the user telephone experience. Below are some of the new user features.
- ACD Transfer Key – This new one-touch ACD transfer key on ICON 5810/5910/5930 IP phones directly transfers a call to an ACD group (previously, this was a multi-step process for the user and required knowing and entering a 4-digit ACD Group access code).
- Hunt Group Login/Logout – ICON 5810/5910/5930 phone users can log in/out of a hunt group (available for the first 32 out of the maximum 250 hunt groups allowed). Previously, only ACD agents could log in and out of ACD groups, but now this can be accomplished by select ICON phones.
- Music On Hold Selection – ICON 5900/5910/5930 IP phones and legacy Iwatsu IP phones can be programmed to play MOH or silence when the phone is placed on hold by another system extension (an intercom call); these sources are stored locally on the phone and will not take up a media channel on the system.
- Speed Dial – ICON 5810, 5910 and 5930 IP telephones now support a submenu option to easily clear and delete a personal speed dial name/number with single key press (previously, the name and the number had to be overwritten with null spaces in order to delete).
- UCD Group Overflow Timer – This timer can be customized for varying overflow times per each UCD group; this individual timer takes precedence over a system-wide setting.
R9.0 software builds on R8.0 improvements introduced in early 2011 that changed the architecture of the system so that SIP trunks can be directly connected to the system (Direct Connection) without the need for a SIP proxy. R8.0 also added a Call-Hand Off feature that transfers an active call from an ICON IX-5810, IX-5910 or IX-5930 phone to a cell phone or another Enterprise-CS extension using a Mobility Key and some new SIP station features, including SIP Station Display Name for Intercom Calls, SIP Station Wake-Up Call, SIP Station Hold Request and SIP Station Transfer Request.
General Availability: Iwatsu Enterprise-CS 9.0 is available as of November 1, 2011 in North America from ICON Voice Networks. ICON offers annual support and software subscriptions that include version upgrades.
RADVISION SCOPIA Mobile V3 Adds HD Video
Quick Take: RADVISION addresses the increasing demand for mobile video, extending its SCOPIA Mobile enterprise conferencing application to support HD video conferencing for Apple mobile device users (up to 720p on the iPad). RADVISION leverages the Apple audio system including the Apple codec, which enhances the battery life and power consumption for these calls.
Overview:
RADVISION Ltd. (www.radvision.com), a visual communications solution provider headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel with a U.S. headquarters in Fair Lawn, NJ, introduces the third iteration of its SCOPIA Mobile enterprise conferencing application. The latest SCOPIA Mobile V3 extends the capabilities for Apple device users (iPhone smartphones and iPad tablets) and enables users to participate in a standards-based HD video conference (up to 720p on the iPad) with full two-way video and a view of up to 28 participants. RADVISION leverages the Apple audio system including the Apple codec, which enhances the battery life and power consumption for these calls. In addition to Apple iPhone and iPad mobile devices, RADVISION plans to support Android-based devices in first half of 2012.
To recap, RADVISION first introduced SCOPIA Mobile in March 2010 as a free application for control and management of video conferences (hosted on the company’s SCOPIA Elite MCU) using an Apple iPhone, iPod touch or BlackBerry smartphone (SCOPIA Mobile V1 is the only version offered for BlackBerry devices). A mobile device user could be an audio-only participant by getting a call back on their phone and also use the device to manage the meeting participants (mute, start/stop video, disconnect participants) and control the meeting (start or pause recording, extend the time, etc.). A second release (V2) of SCOPIA Mobile in November 2010 introduced two optimized versions, SCOPIA Mobile for the iPhone and SCOPIA Mobile for the iPad tablet, that allowed these Apple device users to participate via standards-based audio and to use H.239 data collaboration to receive and view presentations, spreadsheets, documents and images over the mobile device (no editing or sharing from the mobile device).
The latest version, SCOPIA Mobile V3, gives Apple iPhone and iPad users full participation as an audio and video participant along with the data collaboration and review capability. The addition of video to the mobile device does not come too soon, as users continue to grow accustomed to and demand this functionality. Studies show that mobile video will represent more than half of all mobile data traffic by the end of 2011, and mobile video adoption over the next five years will continue to climb, despite our sluggish economy (Cisco Visual Networking Index (VNI) Global Mobile Data Traffic Forecast Update, February 2011).
What differentiates SCOPIA Mobile from competing offers? RADVISION explains that SCOPIA Mobile is specifically designed for a mobile device so there are no compromises or feature limitations like other vendor’s UC clients which are modeled to emulate non-mobile applications rather than leverage specific mobile device features (e.g. drag and drop, two-finger taps, swipe to delete, etc.). Furthermore, SCOPIA Mobile V3 is interoperable with standards-based video, and the H.239 presentation capability includes a unique “slider” capability that lets mobile users review slides that have already been presented. SCOPIA Mobile also enables full meeting moderation capabilities (invite, control, record, etc.) and flexible layouts.
Notable SCOPIA Mobile features include:
- Full 2-way video (new with V3) - Users can click to participate in a standards-based video conference with full two-way video. The Apple iOS and screen size allows for a maximum of 28 video participants (there can be more audio participants since these are limited only by the RADVISION SCOPIA Desktop Server capacity). SCOPIA Mobile V3 can connect to other telepresence systems or any standards-based HD video conferencing system (including SIP-based systems), as well as unified communications (UC) applications such as Microsoft Lync if the SCOPIA Video Gateway for Microsoft Lync is deployed.
- Data collaboration with review – Users can view presentations, spreadsheets, documents and images, but also review previously shared materials using RADVISION’s unique data collaboration/slider function (available as of V2).
- Meeting control, moderation and administration – Users can start and stop recording or streaming, lock or end a conference, view the participant list, mute, stop cameras, disconnect participants and view statistics. Users can also change video layouts and rearrange participants using a Multi-Touch interface (available as of V1).
- Mobile broadband (3G) and WiFi capable – Users can participate in a video conference over a 3G network or a WiFi network (seamless handoff between Wi-Fi and 3G is not supported at this time).
General Availability: RADVISION SCOPIA Mobile V3 is generally available now as a free download from the Apple App Store for the Apple iPhone or Apple iPad. SCOPIA Mobile works in conjunction with RADVISION’s SCOPIA Desktop Server, and a SCOPIA Mobile or SCOPIA Desktop Pro license on the SCOPIA Desktop Server 7.6.1 or later is required.
Siemens Enhances OpenScape Office, Adds Web Collaboration and Tablet Client Siemens www.siemens-enterprise.com focuses on challenges for small and mid-sized businesses related to communications, collaboration and consistency with some new capabilities for its OpenScape Office portfolio. New V3R2 software adds support for OpenScape Web Collaboration for audio, Web and video communications, a new browser-based UC client for tablets and a UC plug-in for Microsoft Outlook 2010, among other enhancements.
To recap, Siemens OpenScape Office for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) comes in three versions: MX (a hardware/software appliance), LX (software only) and HX (a software application server for HiPath 3000).
OpenScape Office MX (originally called HiPath OpenOffice ME prior to 2010) is an all-in-one hardware/software appliance that targets businesses with up to 150 workers (originally called HiPath OpenOffice ME prior to 2010). This native IP communication hardware appliance is Linux-based and supports standard interfaces such as SIP, CSTA and XML, but also has slots for TDM Gateway Modules that connect traditional analog and digital trunks. OpenScape Office MX can be configured with one, two or three rack-mountable 19-inch units (connected via cable) for 50, 100 or 150 user configurations, all managed as a single system using a Web-based browser. The system comes pre-configured with built-in voice and conferencing services, voicemail, messaging (Microsoft Outlook integration), mobility (built-in controller for integrated Wireless LAN Solution 802.11 b/g) and presence. The pre-loaded software is activated using license keys so customers unlock only the software capacities they need to optimize their business. Basic call distribution is included, or a full ACD and UC-based Contact Center can be license activated.
OpenScape Office LX, introduced earlier in 2011, is a pure software-based version for up to 500 users, with software running on a Linux-based industry standard server or on a single virtualized server (VMware’s vSphere 4 platform). OpenScape Office LX is an IP-only solution that utilizes SIP trunking connections, but the system can also utilize the OpenScape Office MX or HiPath 3000 as a trunk gateway for analog and digital (TDM) connections.
OpenScape Office HX was also announced earlier in 2011 as a Unified Communications (UC) software application server and add-on for the company’s earlier HiPath 3000 converged IP/TDM PBX for SMBs. HX is OpenScape Office software running on a Linux-based industry standard server (supports virtualization) that is dedicated specifically for the HiPath 3000 platform, allowing the Siemens installed HiPath 3000 customer base to retain their current PBX infrastructure, but also benefit from UC features.
What’s New OpenScape Office V3R2?
- OpenScape Web Collaboration. This capability, introduced for Siemens enterprise customers last year (the FastViewer acquisition), is now available for smaller businesses that deploy OpenScape Office. An additional server is required since OpenScape Web Collaboration runs on a Windows 2008 server (not on Linux like the OpenScape Office system). The base license includes two simultaneous conference rooms (more licenses can be added). The OpenScape Office User Interface supports visual drag and drop conferencing, plus video on the desktop. A mobile client is also available. Alternatively, customers can subscribe to this functionality (a la carte) as a cloud service.
- A UC plug-in for Microsoft Outlook 2010. For those who use Microsoft Outlook as their primary tool, Siemens myPortal for Desktop functions are integrated in Microsoft Office Outlook, allowing users to access all communications from a single screen, including e-mail, voicemail, fax and IM with multi-user chat. New functionality based on ribbon technology enables easier access to features.
- Multi-site networking is supported among OpenScape Office MX, HX and LX systems for up to eight nodes and 1,000 users. Previously, MX and LX systems could network with HiPath 3000 for traditional voice features only; networking with HX was not available. HiPath 3000 V9 is required to include HX in this multi-site networking.
- A new Web client for tablets. Siemens myPortal for Mobile, a browser-based application already accessible from various smartphones (Apple iPhone, Google Android, Symbian and BlackBerry operating systems), is now available for tablets, including the Apple iPad and Google Android-based tablets. Users do not need to download any software to the device since it is a browser-based application. The myPortal for Mobile application has some of the myPortal desktop client features that make sense for a mobile user such as presence, favorites list, journal, voice messages and directories, as well as some mobile-related features are available such as optimal rate utilization for optimizing communication charges and the CallMe feature that routes calls to available voice devices.
- Advanced UCC license. Siemens is offering a special promotion for SMBs until June 30, 2012 in which OpenScape Office MX and LX customers that order Standard licenses will receive Advanced UCC licenses (a 28% license savings). The Advanced UCC license enables some collaboration features, namely personal fax inbox, drag and drop conferencing and mobility (Siemens’ FMC mobility with myPortal for Mobile).
General Availability: OpenScape Office V3R2 is available globally as of November 28, 2011. Current HiPath 3000 customers can add the OpenScape Office HX application server for UC features, or for growth, these customers can deploy the OpenScape Office LX solution, utilizing their current HiPath 3000 equipment as a gateway for TDM connections.
snom Designs New 700 Series VoIP Phones for Features and Value
snom technology AG of Germany (www.snom.com) continues to advance its successful SIP-based telephone portfolio, announcing the 7xx series of VoIP phones designed as affordable, enterprise-class phones. The new snom 720 ($219US MSRP) and 760 ($329US MSRP) fill a gap in the portfolio by incorporating desirable features from snom’s earlier entry-level 3xx series and its more advanced 8xx series at a price that falls in between these. The snom portfolio now includes the new 720 and 760 VoIP phones, as well as its popular 3xx series (300, 320 and 370), 8xx series (821 and 870), snom m9 DECT handset and recently introduced UC Editions (300 UC, 821 UC and UC600 USB phone) optimized for Microsoft Lync. The company also sells the snom ONE IP-PBX for smaller businesses (targets 4-150 users) that comes as a software-only version (there is a free software download for businesses with 10 extensions or less) or as a convenient hardware-based appliance.
The snom VoIP telephones utilize Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) which allows interoperability with a wide variety of SIP-based systems such as snom’s own IP-PBX and those from BroadSoft, Digium, Epygi, Fonality, IPsmarx and Microsoft, to name only a few. This versatility and investment protection are appealing, and in addition, SIP telephone manufacturers report that customers are increasingly attracted to the more affordable phone models which offer a good complement of features, but at a lower price point.
So, snom is right on target with the new 7xx series phones that are feature-rich, but also reasonably priced. snom also recently introduced snom Active, a new secure, hosted (and free) provisioning and management Web-based service that makes the deployment process faster and more efficient for distributors and resellers with remote, system-wide configuration and management of snom IP phones.
Both of the new snom 7xx series phones support popular, traditional phone features, but also have advanced functionality, including a Gigabit Ethernet switch, support of the wideband audio (G.722 codec) for enhanced audio quality, a 1,000-entry address book and a 300-entry call log. There is a USB port for Wi-Fi that eliminates the need for cabling (‘power over plug’ and Power over Ethernet (PoE) are also options), or the USB port can be used for connecting a Bluetooth headset (the 760 has a second USB port for future applications).
Generally, the snom 720 targets the everyday business user with functionality similar to the earlier snom 3xx series, including a 4-line monochrome display and 18 programmable keys that can be used for features (speed dial, forward, transfer, etc.) or to monitor the status of other extensions.
The snom 760 targets the visual user, incorporating some of the more advanced functionality of the 8xx series such as a high-resolution color display (3.1 inch x 3.5 inch) for viewing XML-based data and caller images that are included in the user’s address book. This model has 16 programmable keys and an ergonomically-designed receiver that eliminates the noise from lifting and replacing it.
The snom 7xx series phones are generally available as of November 7, 2011 in all world regions from snom distributors and resellers. Pricing falls between snom’s entry-level 300 ($129) and snom’s advanced 870 ($349) with the snom 720 and 760 phones priced at $219US MSRP and $329US MSRP, respectively.
Quick Takes:
Aastra (www.aastra.com) announces the general availability of its BluStar 8000i media phone in North America and Western Europe. The initial offering is a stand-alone version that includes the company’s BluStar Application Server (BAS) for call control. The second phase, to rollout over the coming months, will introduce the Aastra BluStar 8000i as a native SIP endpoint for Aastra’s own call managers, including the MX-ONE and Aastra 5000. The BluStar 8000i media phone combines audio, HD video conferencing and unified communications into a single device with a form factor designed for functionality that includes a 13-inch touch-screen, four voice tracking microphones, three speakers and support for HD 720p video conferencing.
Aastra 400 (www.aastra.com), an IP phone system for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) officially launched on April 1, 2011 in France, Germany, Switzerland and the UK, is now available in several more European countries (Belgium, Austria, Croatia, Serbia, Hungary, Italy, and Netherlands), plus Brazil and Australia. Aastra 400 represents the next generation and evolution for earlier SMB platforms from Aastra, namely BusinessPhone, IntelliGate and MD-Evolution. The system includes built-in basic voicemail and free seating with more voicemail capacity, an e-voicemail capability, IVR, call center, FMC and other functionality activated via licenses. Additional Unified Communications and Collaboration (UCC) applications are available and housed on a blade server board or an external server.
Alcatel-Lucent’s (www.alcatel-lucent.com) new OmniTouch 8082 My IC Phone (Instant Communicator) is a next generation desk phone with 7-inch multi-touch display screen that provides the user with multiple “touch” places to enter requests such as looking up an address or accessing an application. The phone provides access to telephony, telephony presence, contact information, MP3 music and contextual applications (access to IM, e-mail and presence may be included in a later release). A Developer Application portal enables support for tailored applications such as HVAC building control or twitter feeds (Web-based standards include Java-Script, HTML5 and others). My IC Phone is compatible with OpenTouch Multimedia Services and OpenTouch Business Edition, Alcatel-Lucent’s OmniPCX Office (OXO) Rich Communication Edition (RCE) 8.1 for SMBs.
Alcatel-Lucent (www.alcatel-lucent.com) adds support for RADVISION’s SCOPIA Mobile HD video conferencing application that runs on Apple iOS personal devices, including the iPad and iPhone (available now as a download from the Apple App Store). Users can join full two-way video conferences and see up to 28 participants simultaneously, as well as share data such as presentations, spreadsheets, documents and images. Additional features include meeting control, moderation and administration and mobile broadband and WiFi support. RADVISION SCOPIA Mobile for Apple Mobile devices complements Alcatel-Lucent’s traditional web and video conferencing offering, the Advanced Communications Server (ACS), but is not compatible with OpenTouch. Alcatel-Lucent also adds support for RADVISION’s SCOPIA VC240 all-in-one desktop video conferencing and PC display (Samsung 24-inch LCD monitor) suitable for offices or rooms (5-, 100-, 150- or 300-seat packs available).The unit is compatible with the entire Alcatel-Lucent range of solutions, including the new OpenTouch Business Edition and OpenTouch Multimedia Services.
AltiGen (www.altigen.com) partners with cloud UC provider WorkSpace Communications to offer a hosted, software-as-a service (SaaS)-based contact center solution for Microsoft Lync. The contact center solution is based on AltiGen’s MaxACD, a software-based platform that can be deployed with a hosted Microsoft Lync offer or with a premises-based Microsoft Lync server. MaxACD provides ACD, Auto Attendant, quality monitoring and call recording, but also integrates Microsoft Lync functionality such as presence and instant messaging.
AVST (www.avst.com) updates its CallXpress UC solution with new version 8.2 software, introducing a new smartphone client for Android and iPhone devices called AVST Mobile for CallXpress. With the client, the user has a single number and voice mailbox, visual call screening and can separate personal calls from business calls to more efficiently manage calls and voice messages. CallXpress 8.2 can also act as gateway for Microsoft OCS/Lync to connect Microsoft OCS and Microsoft Lync to an existing PBX. New CallXpress integrations are available for Avaya IP Office and ShoreTel ShoreGear using SIP (this adds to over 400 TDM and IP integrations already offered by AVST).
Cisco (www.cisco.com) says new features are coming for a next generation of WebEx (beta version scheduled for December 2011; GA in first quarter 2011). Improvements include HD Video and Cloud Storage (for storing and sharing content during meetings), as well as a new Meeting Space where the host can upload content that was shared during the meeting and/or a recording of the meeting for later retrieval by participants. Cisco also addresses security by which an IT manager can set policies to allow/disallow the sharing of content. There is new support for two-way video on iPhone and Cisco Cius (already available on iPad).
Cisco (www.cisco.com) announces that a Software Development Kit or SDK for Cisco Jabber is now available for developers to enhance applications by integrating Jabber for presence, IM, voice. For example, Jabber can enhance a Corporate Directory application by exposing presence information and adding the ability to launch chat sessions or click-to-call. The Jabber SDK is a free, downloadable Web browser plug-in that is now available for Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome and Safari browsers and for Windows and Mac operating systems.
NEC (www.necam.com) has a new in-building wireless solution, called SMB Wireless (ML400), for the UNIVERGE SV8100 Communication Server. ML440 is based on DECT technology (DECT GAP standard) and operates in the 1.9GHz frequency band. The solution includes AP20 access points/base stations and SMB Wireless (ML440) multi-line handsets with large, backlit color displays, speakerphone for hands-free operation, four programmable keys; one key can be programmed as a DID number to extend the office extension to the handset (single number reach). Other features include call history, 20 hours of talk time, 220 hours standby time and 100 address book entries.
OAISYS (www.oaisys.com) updates its Talkument and Tracer call recording software with three core features based on customer needs and technological advancements: Cloud Licensing (for easier deployment and management), Live Desktop Monitoring (allows authorized users to view desktop activity of an agent) and Caller Location Mapping (displays a map of caller’s location based on physical address or longitude/latitude information). The next version, Version 7.2, is scheduled for early-adopter field trial release in December.
Panasonic (www.pansonic.com/psna) announces certification and interoperability of its KX-TGP SIP cordless phone system and KX-UT series SIP phones with the Vintalk (www.vintalk.com) hosted IP-PBX and SIP Trunking solutions. Vintalk customers can take advantage of Panasonic’s KX-TGP500 and KX-TGP550 DECT 6.0 base units and KX-TPA50 cordless handsets and/or KX-UT SIP phones that come in standard, competitively priced models (KX-UT113 or KX-UT123) or more advanced models (KX-UT133 or KX-UT136).
Polycom (www.polycom.com) has a new whiteboard solution called Polycom UC Board that lets meeting participants use their video display or mobile device as an interactive whiteboard. The solution includes UC Board software, a plug-and-play receiver and a stylus (US$1,999). In other news, Polycom, acquires ViVu, Inc., a privately-held video collaboration software company that has developed innovative video software that can be embedded into Web applications for instant Web-based HD video collaboration.
Swyx (www.sywx.com) of Germany updates its software-based UC-solution called SwyxWare. SwyxWare 2011 R2 supports USB devices in three different Audio-Modes, enabling SwyxWare users to switch between devices with a simple click (such as for moving from a handset to a headset). A new Plug-in allows third party hardware vendors to optimize their products to work with SwyxWare, and Swyx’s collaboration functions such as video, document sharing and Instant Messaging can now be used across locations and among geographically-dispersed Swyx servers. The Swyx software IP-PBX is available on CD (or can be downloaded from the Swyx website) and scales from a 10-user installation to multi-site deployments with thousands of users. SwyxWare is sold in the EMEA region and in several countries in the Asia Pacific region.
Toshiba (www.telecom.toshiba.com) introduces the IP4000 series wireless SIP DECT solution for Toshiba IPedge and Strata CIX IP business phone systems. The new, in-building wireless solution is based on DECT 6.0 technology and includes the IP4100 Base that operates on the 1.9GHz frequency band and one handset model, the IP4100-DECT Handset, with a two-inch color, back-lit display and back-lit keypad with laser-etched numbers, four programmable feature keys and three soft keys. The solution supports up to 200 handsets and 40 base access points (8-10 simultaneous calls per base). The IP4000 series is available now in the U.S. from Authorized Toshiba Dealers.
Verizon (www.verizon.com) is partnering with inContact (www.incontact.com) to expand its hosted contact center portfolio. The new Verizon offer will be called Virtual Contact Center and will complement other Verizon services such as VoIP inbound calling, local calling and IP IVR. Virtual Contact Center will scale to several thousand agents. Benefits include user friendly GUI, quarterly updates so customer gets new features faster, disaster recovery, and pay-per-use model. Note that the earlier Verizon Web Center will upgrade to inContact.
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