VoIP Now

Amino and Espial partner to provide innovative IPTV set top box solution for Allin

Espial and Amino have come together to provide innovative IPTV set top box technology for Allin Interactive. The combined IPTV solution would include Espial Evo running on top of the underlying Amino’s IntAct IPTV software platform to deliver a seamless operating system and middleware environment that would provide a rich responsive user experience. Allin will be utilizing the set top box technology from Amino and Espial in its second generation digital ITV platform. This technology will be introduced by Allin at a March industry tradeshow. The distinctive combination of software from Espial and Amino can help Allin in developing customized ITV solutions which can be easily installed.

Via [IndianTelevision]

Technical Services about to complete VoIP transition on campus

Students would now be able to enjoy features such as caller identification on their dorm room phones when Technical Services completes the last phase of campus wide switch over to VoIP. The dorms in the Choater Cluster have already been converted to VoIP before Fall term and the remaining were converted over the winter break. The service would soon be available in all the dorms. The last phase of the project involves converting the remaining off campus buildings, safety and security communication system and blue light phones which would be done by June 30th.

via [The Dartmouth]

Skype and Warner team up for ring tones on internet phone services

Skype Technologies and Warner Music Group plan to announce a licensing agreement that would put ring tones on internet phone services. Skype would be selling the song snippets as an alternate for traditional phone rings for $ 1.50 each. The service would start in another two months. Initially Madonna would be promoted as a featured artist.

via [VoIPCentral]

Skype and Chinagate come together to provide free calls

Skype and Chinagate have entered into an agreement which would allow Chinagate’s members to make free calls using Skype’s internet calling software. The service would be offered through www.skype.chinagate.com.  It is the first Chinese version of Skype outside China and this service would allow users to make unlimited voice and video calls free of charge. The service also includes SkypeOut feature which allows users to call from Skype to cell phones and landlines and SkypeIn feature which would allow anyone to call the user at their SkypeIn number worldwide. Chinagate members need to download the Chinagate/Skype software from the website mentioned above to immediately start making calls worldwide.

via [VoIPCentral]

Free VoIP Network Security Test offered by NetClarity

NetClarity would be offering a free vulnerability testing program for VoIP equipment providers. The program named Audit My VoIP scans all type of equipments ranging from IP enabled phones to Session Initiation Protocol Gateways for common exposures and vulnerability. It plans to provide VoIP audit results with a high level of confidentiality and integrity. Large VoIP equipment providers can take benefit of this program by sending their products for testing and approval in accordance with MITRE standards. This program is the first step towards enabling end user organizations to shield their critical voice networks against the kind of exposures which could lead to service denial, poor call quality and breaches of privacy.

via [GameShout]

Communications Research Network detects security risk in VoIP applications

The Communications Research Network has detected a security loophole in VoIP applications which could lend internet criminals a better way of covering their tracks. It has been discovered that VoIP applications provide cover traffic for DoS attacks as VoIP runs continuous media over IP packets which makes it difficult to track the source of an attack. Although there hasn’t been a recorded instance of a VoIP coordinated attack but experts believe that the day is not far away when such attacks would take place. If such attack takes place it would not only compromise network security but also dent consumer confidence in VoIP.

via [TMCnet]

Avaya and Juniper Networks to secure IP telephony

Avaya and Juniper Networks have come together to provide security along with enterprise telephony. Avaya would be reselling Juniper security products along with its IP telephony gear and offer integration and support for both. This step has been taken to fight competition from Cisco Systems which provides integrated security and IP telephony capabilities. Making use of Juniper products, Avaya can provide for virtual private networks, firewalls and intrusion detection tools in order to secure the network while supporting IP calls. The joint offering would be available in North America in the month of February and later in Africa, Europe and Middle East.

via  [Computer World]

AOL to introduce coast-to-coast high-speed broadband internet

AOL will partner with Time Warner, BellSouth and Verizon and other major DSL suppliers to expand its broadband network coast to coast. AOL has chalked out an aggressive marketing plan for its AOL High Speed offering which will allow AOL members to access exclusive content and security features on high speed DSL internet or cable connection at a competitive price. From 30th January customers will be able to sign up for AOL High Speed and order a cable modem which would make it simpler and convenient to upgrade.

via [Playfuls.com]

VoIP applications may result in botnet controls

Internet phone service provider such as Vonage and Skype could provide a way for cyber criminals to send spam and launch attacks that could be used to affect websites. The attacker’s cannot be identified as VoIP applications use proprietary technology and encrypted data traffic which cannot be easily monitored. These applications could give cyber criminals a better opportunity to control their zombies and cover their tracks. It could provide cover for launching denial of service attacks. VoIP providers are being requested by Communications Research Network to publish their routing specifications or switch to open standards.

Via [Tech Spot]

Importance of VoIP for U.S. security

According to Tom Ridge, the first Secretary of US Homeland Security VoIP must be adopted by all levels of the government in order to effectively respond to another natural disaster or terrorist attack. According to Ridge, a government VoIP network would assist in getting vital information about a disaster situation to emergency workers. A national VoIP system along with geo location devices can help emergency workers to trace people with the assistance of data, video and photographs. VoIP can also be used to alert and warn the public of imminent disaster.

via [Comment Wire]

BT's VOIP Service Outage

Many consumers of BT's VOIP service (U.K.) could not access the service  especially during this weekend. British Telecom has around 22,000 subscribers and potentially a large number have complaints.

BT's spokesperson has denied that the service was bogged down by heavy usage and instead said that it was a "platform-related" problem.

Reverses like these could be a major embarrassment for any telecom operator but hopefully British Telecom will ride out this 'minor' storm.

Via [VoIP Central]

Vonage expands into Oregon

Vonage's VOIP services will now be available to telecom users in Bend, Hood River, Prineville, Redmond and the Dalles, Oregon.

Residents near the Deschutes River can now use Vonage's broadband-based phone service broadband phone service. Vonage customers who live near the Cascade Mountains can now keep their current numbers or choose telephone numbers within the popular 541 area code.

Via [PR Newswire]

VOIP Starter Platform from Netcentrex

Netcentrex has started selling its VOIP starter kit in the United States.

The Starter Kit consists of an entry-level VoIP platform for residential and corporate customers. The Starter Kit contains a feature-rich administrative and provisioning environment and makes end- user customization possible.

Its is a scalable platform and can be configured for as few as 1000 subscribers or several hundred thousand subscribers. It works on all types of broadband connections.

Via [teleclick]

Highlights from the First ETEL Event

There were two noteworthy things. Both were interesting debuts. 

1:  Sean Egan from Google talked about Gaim and Libjingle - Google's take on the Jingle initiative. Libjingle builds on the XMPP-powered, multimedia-rich Jingle platform.

2: Voipster launched XMPP-based voip extension for Firefox users. Maybe, this is yet another potential positive strike for the Open Source Community and shows real promise.

Via [Always On Network]

Vonage launches Virtual Phone Numbers for Europe

Vonage Marketing announced on Wednesday that it's Virtual Numbers with area codes from Austria, Ireland, France, Spain and Italy are available. With this, it has has been made possible for friends, relatives and business associates from these countries to make calls to US-based Vonage subscribers at local call prices.

Vonage Virtual Phone Numbers are cheap secondary numbers when called to ring on your primary Vonage line. These numbers are available to Vonage subscribers in US, Canada in North America and UK in Europe for USD9.99, CAD 11.99 and GBP 5.99.

Via [VoIP Central]

Avaya declares results for the first quarter of 2006

In the first quarter of 2006, Avaya posted a turnover of $ 1.2 billion. This represents an 8.8 % increase over the same period last year. This quarter results also included a full contribution from Tenois acquisition. During the first quarter, the company shipped its eight millionth IP line and shipments increased 16 % as compared to the previous year. Revenues for company’s Global Communications Systems and Avaya Global Services rose by 11.7 and 5.8 percent respectively. In the year 2006, the company expects to benefit from its global size, service portfolio position and its technological leadership.

via [VoIPCentral]

Alan Percy to deliver keynote address at Internet Telephony Conference and Expo East 2006

Alan Percy, Director of Business Development, AudioCodes Ltd will be delivering a keynote address at Internet Telephony Conference and Expo East 2006 which will be held from January 24th to 27th at the Fort Lauderdale–Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The session will be titled – The Tale of Two Engineers and in this address Alan Percy will investigate what the dot com application developers and legacy carriers have amassed for their future subscribers and how equipment manufacturers need to evolve in order to meet their needs. The address will take place on January 26 at 5:15 pm. Registration for the conference can be done at http://www.itexpo.com.

via  [TMCnet]

NEC’s UNIVERGE(R) receives Internet Telephony’s 2005 Product of the Year Award

NEC Unified Solutions UNIVERGE(R) SV7000 MPS has received Internet Telephony magazine’s 2005 Product of the Year Award. This product is a full featured SIP enabled telephony server made for SME marketplace and provides call control for up to 500 IP stations. It provides over 440 service feature which enhance productivity, improve communications efficiency and reduce operating costs. Since it has innovative software and hardware designs, this enables it to grow incrementally and serve efficiently and helps it in expanding from its minimum to the maximum capacity without any loss of existing hardware. The winners of the award will be highlighted in the January and February issue of the magazine.

Via  [PrNewsWire]

BT to face competition from AOL for British broadband market

AOL has declared its intentions to directly compete with in the British broadband market. It will be offering an in house broadband internet service rather than reselling BT offering. It has plans to install equipment in 300 local exchanges throughout U.K. This will enable the company to access 20 % of the country’s population with the new service. If the demand exceeds the expectations it will further invest £70 million for a thousand more exchanges. This move by AOL will further increase the level of competition for high speed internet access across U.K. and ensure competitive pricing for the consumers.

via  [TeleClick]

RiGHTv 4.5 introduced by Orca Interactive

Orca Interactive has introduced RiGHTv 4.5 which is a service creation and delivery system for speeding time to market interactive TV applications and services. It offers flexibility and service control to operators to easily and quickly introduce an unlimited number of revenue generating and targeted services from various vendors which would reduce the cost of ownership, business risk and operation cost. The integrated TV experience as a result of multiple applications will increase loyalty and customer satisfaction and enable service bundling for promotion and pricing.

via  [Business Wire]

Vonage introduces broadband phone service in Ohio

Vonage Marketing has introduced its broadband phone service at Toledo and Sylvania in Ohio. High speed internet subscribers of Vonage will now be able to take advantage of its broadband phone service  which is offering unlimited local and long distance calling option and other features like call forwarding, call waiting and voice mail for a flat monthly rate. Customers residing in and around west end of Lake Erin will be able to keep their existing numbers or choose numbers within the 567 and 419 area code.

via  [PrNewsWire]

Agilent Technologies introduces VoIP test kit

Agilent Technologies has introduced its VoIP test kit for the N2620A FrameScope Pro. The test kit will help service providers and network installers to quickly and efficiently deploy voice services to Ethernet based networks. Network qualifications that go beyond bandwidth measurement ensure a smoother transition to VoIP. In its class the handheld analyzer is the most compact gigabit Ethernet troubleshooting and RFC 2544 network performance benchmarking tool. It can generate traffic up to full gigabit line rate with optical and electrical ports.

via  [EmsNow]

Freshtel introduces VoIP wholesale service for Tesco

Freshtel has introduced its VoIP wholesale service for UK based retailer Tesco. This deal has brought Freshtel into international limelight with Tesco taking on BT with a VoIP offering. The starter pack is for £19.97 which includes a handset and calls worth £5. Calls to other Tesco VoIP customers across UK are free, to mobiles it is 10p a minute and a few of the international destinations are for 2p a minute. The agreement to provide Tesco with white label internet protocol telephony service was announced by Freshtel in December 2005.

via [VoIPNews]

Quality management tool Piqua to address VoIP issues

Quality management tool, Piqua from Texas Instruments will make VoIP reliable and better sounding. It will help service providers scrutinize devices, services and networks. In many cases it will permit the infrastructure to heal itself. This will help providers to reduce costs, scale up voice and other multimedia services in order to meet the demand. It will be available later this year in products from console developers and carrier equipment vendors. It will also replace the diagnostic tools built into the traditional circuit switched phone system.

Via [Computerworld]

Cisco’s CallManager exposes VoIP vulnerability

Cisco Systems’ disclosure regarding security alerts and patches for CallManager has exposed VoIP vulnerability as a software application. Although the threats posed are miniscule as compared to blocking of websites and stealing customer data still it cannot be ignored. Since Cisco is the market leader it is likely going to be the prime target of VoIP hackers. Another threat lies in the inexperience of IT staff which might not be having much knowledge about security aspects of the network. With the use of VoIP expected to increase over the years the need to reduce the threats posed to it is very important.

via  [InformationWeek]

SMT introduces new Efinity VoIP server

The new Efinity Server from SMT Network Solutions Limited can save up to 100% of telephone charges. It provides all the gateway and connectivity features needed to interface with a number of VoIP service providers. It will provide SME’s with corporate level functionality and take advantage of corporate level savings on call charges at a price that will permit a quick return on investment. For small and large corporations VoIP solution bring huge savings over traditional telephone carriers. Calls are routed through the network to a VoIP gateway where a standard PSTN call is made.

Via [PrNewsWire]

Home Base Service Company adds free VoIP plan comparison tool to voip-research.com

Home Base Service Company has added a free to use VoIP plan comparison tool to VoIP Research site – www.voip-research.com. This will enable the users to compare over 80 residential VoIP plans and 23 VoIP business plans over 25 different VoIP service providers.  This will provide end users with an extensive database to find out the best VoIP plan which meets the telephony needs. The search result will produce the price of each VoIP plan, the features available and access user reviews of each service provider. The database is updated regularly.

via    [USPRwire]

IDC conducts study on ‘Australian Wireless VoIP – On Trial in 2006’

According to a study conducted by IDC, ‘Australia Wireless VoIP – On Trial in 2006’ this year will be the year of trial and proof of concepts of wireless VoIP installation and will be driven by mass market availability of dual mode handsets and IP telephony integration of FMC features into IP PBX. For Australian companies the most distinctive wireless VoIP installation would involve the co-existence of thick access points and Wi-Fi handsets autonomously or thin access points with analogous wireless switch.

via    [Linuxworld]

MatrixStream Technologies to introduce world’s first HD IPTV

MatrixStream Technologies will be introducing world’s first H 264 AVC Video on demand IPTV Set Top Box and PC Player competent of the high definition signal formats. This will permit users to watch videos on DVD or HD over any broadband speed and play instant VOD and streaming DVD quality video in real time. One needs to plug one end of the set top box into a TV set and the other into any broadband connection and watch Video on Demand and IP broadcast TV in HD or DVD quality.

via  [PressZoom]

Motorola acquires Swedish company Kreatel Communications

Motorola has acquired Swedish company Kreatel Communications which provides Linux based IPTV set top boxes. It supplies set top boxes to service providers throughout Europe and will be incorporated into Motorola’s connected Home Solutions business. The terms of the deal have not been disclosed and the transaction is expected to be closed in Q1, 2006.Acquisition of Kreatel will balance Motorola’s digital video solution. This would be beneficial to green field video networks around the world. With this deal taking place the existing customers of Kreatel will get the benefits of working with a global leader in digital video.

via  [VoipCentral]

Combination of VoIP and Wi-Fi adopted at Rhode Island Hospital

Doctors and nurses at Rhode Island Hospital are making use of Wi-Fi and VoIP system that allows them to access patient data, test results, consult expert sources and order procedures at bedside. Wi-Fi connects the Vocera units around the necks of nurses enabling them to communicate to each other hands free even while giving an injection to somebody. Patients and families can access the internet while they are in the premises of hospital and track critical pieces of equipment by locating their electronic tags. A combination of VoIP and Wi-Fi is being adopted because of the simplification it offers.

Via [PBN.com]

Haves and Haves Not of VoIP marketing

The international growth potential of AT & T is one of the reasons which made the company stick with AT & T brand rather than SBC. It could have utilized the money spent on making headlines by providing videoconferencing in China to go head on with Vonage which has been intelligently marketing itself. There are a number of companies which want to be leaders in the VoIP industry but still they are not taking any noticeable steps to show that they want to lead in the future. If AT & T wants to be leader in VoIP service provider it should start now rather than regret later.

Via [TMCnet]

New website portal released by VoIP-Internet-Products.com for complete VoIP solutions

VoIP-Internet-Products.com has released a new website portal for complete VoIP solutions for multiple choices of major brand providers for IP Broadband and Telecommunications service solutions. This portal is customer focused and it presents the best value in communication products and services. It offers the convenience to compare different carriers and providers based on their location to get access to the inexpensive and high quality services. It also offers additional services ranging from Conference Calling solutions to e-Fax along with traditional local and long distance land line services.

Via [PRWeb]

Beijing Netcom commences full fledged IPTV testing

After testing IPTV in Harbin, Beijing Netcom has started issuing bidding documents to IPTV manufacturers such as Siemens, Huawei, Starcom, ZTE inviting them for participation in its IPTV test in Beijing.Beijing Netcom has till now not faced any technical difficulties in implementing IPTV but there are bound to be delays in its implementation as a full fledged government policy has not been framed for this sector.  It is also planning to build an IPTV trial network which can support fifty thousand users and support ten thousand online users of IPTV application.

via  [EFY Times]

Spirit Telecom deploys SpiritPhone to remain competitive

In order to ensure its competitiveness within the industry Spirit Telecom has gone ahead and installed a VoIP system called SpiritPhone. It was assisted by RCG in the engineering and implementation of SpiritPhone. SpiritPhone is currently being used by small and medium sized businesses. SpiritPhone digitizes traditional voice traffic and transmits it across the network to the Public Switched Telephone Network. It combines the voice and data needs into dynamically shared internet bundle. A number of advanced features are provided by SpiritPhone such as unified messaging, IP Centrex, Web Portal dialing, presentation viewing, conferencing and voice mail for cell and PDA devices.

via [24-7 PressRelease]

Bharti to enter Internet Protocol TV segment

Sunil Bharti Mittal is planning to enter the IPTV market which would enable video content to be delivered through telephone lines. It has partnered with UTStarcom for technology for the Triple Play venture. This move is in synergy with Bharti’s telecom operations where it has a considerable fixed telephone retail customers and rising number of broadband users. It plans to offer 100 channels and is working to create a network transmission capacity for IPTV. IPTV is generally provided in combination with Video on Demand and includes internet services such as Web access and VoIP where it is referred to as Triple Play.

via [The Economic Times]

IDT extends the date for buying Net2Phone’s shares

IDT has furthered the expiry date of its tender offer for buying Net2Phone. It first came up with a proposal for buying Net2Phone last year in June and has extended the offer till January 27th, 2006. IDT had offered $ 2.05 cash per share for the shareholders of Net2Phone. The company currently owns 79 percent of Net2Phone outstanding shares. The extended date comes after the announcement on 29 December when IDT gave two weeks to shareholders of Net2Phone to sell their shares. The original price offered for Net2Phone’s share was $ 1.70 /share which was revised to $ 2.05 /share in mid -December 2005.

via  [Msn Money]

VOCAL Technologies offers iPBX and PBXtender solutions

VOCAL Technologies has introduced its new PBXtender and iPBX solutions for home and office VoIP telephony services. These will help VoIP users to improve telephones in their offices or homes. These instruments will prevent the need for extra wiring or Wi-Fi networks. These solutions will be beneficial to those users who didn’t want a single phone, were cynical about shifting from traditional phone service or didn’t want to spend huge amounts for availing VoIP service. These solutions will provide to the customers hassle free VoIP service. iPBX and PBXtenders will provide VoIP service to other phone lines in office or homes without infringing FCC power regulations or disturbing telephone services or DSL.

via [TmcNet]

AlwaysOnWireless introduces WiFlyer+v router with built in VoIP

AlwaysOnWireless has introduced the WiFlyer+v router which provides the functionality of the original WiFlyer router and has been specially designed for wireless VoIP communication. The new product works with the WiFlyer branded VoIP phone service which provides unlimited domestic calling and a functional phone number for incoming calls as well as premium features such as call waiting, voice mail, call display and three way conferencing. The cost of the product is $ 12.95 per month.

via [TeleClick]

Systegration introduces mouse VoIP phone

Convergence presented in a new package. Now VoIP phones can also function as mouse for computers as well. These new VoIP phones can be used for both talking and clicking. This new VoIP phone has been developed by Systegration looks like a mouse and when it is unfolded it shows a monochrome display and keypad. The keypad allows direct entry of phone numbers. It is very well suited for busy executives who can utilize this new VoIP phone as both desktop mouse and phone. Not much information about specifications and details are available but it would be a product to watch for when it is launched.

via [MobileMag]

XO and Yahoo release VoIP findings

VoIP findings have been released by both XO and Yahoo this week. According to XO, it had over 2.2 billion minutes of VoIP traffic in the fourth quarter of 2005 which represents 22 percent increase over the previous quarter. The increase is being attributed to the larger installation of XO’s VoIP solutions by business and service providers. Yahoo findings indicate that internet search has been found to be the most trusted and important information resource for consumers shopping for VoIP calling services. According to the report 90 percent of the people surveyed were making use of internet to obtain additional information about VoIP services.

via [Von Magazine]

Network Programs to launch IP telephony and call centre solutions

Network Programs and Interactive Intelligence have entered into a value added reseller partnership for a wide range of cutting edge technologies in call center and IP telephony space which adds to Network Programs existing portfolio and third party relationship. Including Interactive Intelligence product line will widen Network Programs offering of contact centre solutions. Customer Interaction Center product by Interactive Intelligence offers an open, software based platform for IP switching, automatic call distribution, interactive voice response, call recording, screen dialing administered from a single interface. It also provides real time quality monitoring and performance management tools via its open standards architecture.

via  [India Infoline]

Aculab’s Prosody X available for shipment

Aculab’s Prosody X, the state of the art IP based card has been made available for shipment. The company has started fulfilling advanced orders for dozens of customers. Prosody X has already been awarded the Internet Telephony product of Year Award 2005. Prosody X provides full convergence of IP and traditional TDM voice communications which facilitates seamless integration of telephony and networking communications. It enables integrators to develop highly scalable, cost effective and feature rich media processing solutions. Prosody X will set a new yardstick in the industry in terms of channel density and cost per channel along with scalability.

via [ElectronicStalk]

Cisco releases patches for its Call Manager VoIP Software

Cisco Systems has released two patches for flaws in its Call Manager VoIP software. The first flaw was detected by a customer and it could have resulted in an attack on the user system by hackers. The second flaw would have allowed users with read only access to get full administrator privilege and the consequences could have been serious as a hacker would have been able to gain total access. The patches have been posted on the website of Cisco Systems and the company is urging all the customers to fix the problem as soon as possible.

via [What PC]

TESCO launches Internet phone

TESCO has launched a new internet phone service. It has introduced a new handset which when connected with a computer having broadband connection permits users to make cheap calls via the web. Customers signing for the service will have to make a fixed payment for the phone and pay for the calls over and above the broadband charges. The handset and the start up pack is for £19.97 and it also includes free airtime worth £5. User would then be required to register online and choose a non geographic number which can be taken along if they move out of the house. The phone is currently available in selected stores but will be available nation wide in the coming months.

via [The Sun]

Increasing market share for cable companies in North America’s VoIP industry

The market share held by cable companies in North America’s VoIP market is growing. Time Warner’s has witnessed a rise of 25 % in its market share in the first quarter of 2005. This growth has prompted cable providers in U.S. and Canada to launch their own VoIP services. These pre established cable companies have been able to capture a larger share in the market in spite of the fact that companies like Vonage have been providing better deals. Cable companies are getting the advantage of being pre established brands. It is expected that by 2009 the total value of North America’s VoIP industry will reach $ 23.4 billion.

via [TeleClick]

Iocell integrates VoIP into a compact USB Flash drive

South Korean company Iocell has integrated internet telephony into a compact USB Flash drive for the purpose of convenience. The drive is compact enough and it can be carried in one’s pocket. It provides between 128MB and 4GB of removal storage capacity which can be squeezed into a 7.4 x 2.1 x 0.7cm USB drive. It also has a sound card and retractable earphone and holds its VoIP application in a write protected 5MB partition on drive. The phone drive can be plugged into the computer and it automatically loads up the softphone app. The company is currently looking for distribution partners for its product.

via [The Register]

Chwang Yi introduces USBPhone with application software for Mac OS X systems

Chwang Yi has introduced a USB Phone which is the first USB phone handset for Skype users and includes full featured control application software for Mac OS X systems. This phone works perfectly with both Win XP systems and Mac OS X. It is beneficial to the users of Mac OS because of the control applications included in it. This phone works well with any PC running OS X 10.3 or Win XP. It has a CD with Win XP software. The phone is priced at $ 24.

via [MacDailyNews]

Interlink Global adds more clients and carries out up gradation

Interlink Global announced that it has added a number of clients to its wholesale telecommunications division and has upgraded its equipments at its communication hub in North Miami. The upgrades have resulted in adding of retail VoIP service with video capabilities. The upgrades have increased traffic capacity to 500 million minutes per month from the existing 300 million minutes per month. The company will also be handling international infrastructure projects and running a significant amount of wholesale traffic simultaneously. These steps will result in increasing revenues for the company in 2006.

via [TmcNet]

Covad Communications introduces Covad VoIP PBXi Plus

Covad Communications Group has introduced Covad VoIP PBXi Plus which is a business class offering for small businesses and distributed enterprises with existing on premise phone equipment. It provides short sales cycle and easy customer implementation. It is very well suited for high volume channels. This product will enable Covad to reach nationwide customers interested in premises based VoIP solutions. It has been tailored for small enterprises with existing PBX or key telephone systems. It runs over Covad’s Voice Optimized access T1 lines which offer quality voice and data services and provides cost savings up to 55 percent.

via [VoIP Magazine]

Yak Communications introduces unlimited VoIP calling plan

Yak Communication has launched an unlimited VoIP calling plan which would allow Canadian customers to have a U.S. phone number. This plan would provide subscribers a U.S. or Canadian local phone number to make unlimited outbound and inbound calls in Canada and continental U.S. in order to utilize this service one must have a broadband internet service. This plan also provides features such as unified messaging, call waiting, caller ID, voice mail and conference calling. The plan is available for $ 24.99 per month plus VoIP gateway cost if required. Computer would be required for making calls but if one wants to make calls using a traditional phone VoIP gateway would be required.

via [DigitalHome Canada]

Bright future for VoIP in Malaysia

It is expected that the VoIP business in Malaysia will generate $ 398.9 million in revenue by the end of 2010. VoIP has been identified as one of the eight services in Malaysian master scheme that will drive the delivery of communications, multimedia services and advanced information in the next five years. In 2006 it is expected that VoIP will generate $ 212.7 million in revenue. VoIP  has resulted in around 80 percent savings in overseas calls. It is believed that VoIP will act as a driving force for industry development in Malaysia.

via [Xinhuanet]

Atreus selected by Level 3 for VoIP alliance

Atreus systems has been selected by Level 3 communications to participate in its (3)VoIP(SM) Technology Alliance program. This program unites Level 3 with a select group of technology vendors to help service providers quickly install services interconnected with Level 3 network. The participation of authenticates that Atreus’ software is interoperable with Level 3’s current application programming interface for its (3) VoIP services. This relationship will permit service providers to quickly become operational with a fully featured VoIP service, hence allowing providers to successfully turn up, bill and manage subscribers.

Via [XtvWorld]

VoIP survey conducted by Empirix

According to a survey conducted by Empirix on Service Provider VoIP Deployment and Service Delivery Challenges, only one fifth of the respondents used VoIP application monitoring systems to ensure service quality. The majority of problems indicated in the VoIP network were subscriber complaints. The conclusion which was arrived at was that more efforts need to be put by VoIP service providers to ensure quality of service. The survey also reported that VoIP service providers were of the opinion that media quality problems posed the biggest threat to service quality and this threat would increase in the next two years.

via [Light Reading]

Yahoo survey reports internet search as an indispensable research tool for VoIP

According to the findings announced by Yahoo regarding a survey conducted by National American Testing Organization , internet search was found to be the most trusted and important information resource for consumers researching VoIP calling services. The major findings of the research were that internet played a pivotal role in the consumer research process for VoIP services, internet search was found to be the most trusted resource for conducting research and it was highly valuable throughout the entire buying cycle. The survey also stated that multi channel approach is the best for driving maximum awareness.

via [TmcNet]

Aastra Intecom introduces Pointspan (R) 4.5

Aastra Intecom has introduced Pointspan 4.5 which is a complete VoIP option for its award winning communications platform. The primary market for Pointspan 4.5 are the large enterprises that want to consolidate multiple technology platforms on the way to an industry standards based pure VoIP solution. It supports industry standard SIP devices with an unparalleled  large enterprise scale and global scope  and significantly enhanced reliability and disaster reliability and disaster tolerance which results in the highest performance converged VoIP system available in the market.

via [TmcNet]

Free paper on VoIP security available

A free paper on VoIP security titled ‘Sound Choices for VoIP Security’ written by Jonathan Casteel is available from the Rowan county Public Library in Salisbury, N.C.  It is a ten page PDF tome which contains authoritative and plainly written info on subjects such as implementation flaws like malformed request DoS, remote access etc. and IP PBX vulnerabilities such as support software attack, application manipulation etc. This report offers informative explanations and is much better as compared to expensive consultant reports which can be priced up to $2,995.

via [ZDNet]

Bluesocket selected for Avaya Developer Connection Program

Bluesocket has been selected by Avaya for membership to the Avaya Developer Connection program. This program encourages the development, compliance testing and co marketing of innovative third party products that are compatible with Avaya solutions. The members of this program are experts in broad range of technologies such as IP telephony, mobility applications and contact center. This program has more than 1,300 software and hardware developer companies, service providers, integrators and customers. The members of this group have been instrumental in creating hundreds of innovative solutions tested for Avaya compliance.

via [ business wire]

Fujitsu and Vertical to develop and market POS IP telephony solution

Fujitsu Transaction solutions and Vertical Communications have come together to develop and market a point of sale IP telephony solution on Fujitsu's Team POS family of terminals. It is being termed as retail industry's first integrated soft telephony solution on a POS.  This system is an extension of Fujitsu's GlobalSTORE POS cash management and back office application. This solution will eliminate the space required for a separate telephone on the service and avoid any additional cost of purchasing and supporting separate telephone devices. The system was demonstrated during NRF from 16 to 17 January.

via [ voip magazine ]

Sonus Networks registers 70 percent growth in VoIP traffic

Sonus Network's amount of voice traffic being carried over Sonus' solutions exceeded 17 billion minutes per month by the end of 2005 which is a 70 % increase over the traffic carried in December 2004. Globally network providers around the world are supporting increased amount of traffic over Sonus IMS based architecture to provide innovative features and applications to users, achieving better operating efficiencies and preparing their telecommunications networks for a seamless migration to IMS compliance. Sonus has expanded its business with network operators over the previous year and traditional telecom providers, wireless operators and internet service providers have accepted Sonus technology and are migrating towards all IP based network architecture.

via [ prnewswire ]

Subdued growth of VoIP in SA

VoIP technology has generated only 0.1 % of the total fixed line voice revenues since being liberalized in SA.  The growth of VoIP has been slow as it has not been able to provide serious alternative to the PST network as an all round service for calling routes and modes. The biggest problem which is being encountered is with respect to the costs.  However it is expected that the cost of adopting VoIP will come down and it will serve as an important component for unified messaging and offer integration capabilities customer relationship management applications.

via [ my broadband ]

BellSouth and Qwest avoiding limelight on IPTV

BellSouth and Qwest Communications have been avoiding undue attention in spite of the fact that each of them is making advances with respect to their IPTV preparations while AT & T and Verizon have been under intense scrutiny for the past 18 months. Although BellSouth and Qwest are being subjected to competitive pressures from the triple play offerings of cable companies in their territories still it is expected that these companies will go ahead with their own terrestrial video strategy in 2006. BellSouth will be getting hundreds of high definition channels via satellites to its video head ends and it will soon begin the trials of its IPTV service with the real customers while Qwest is working to spruce up its broadband offering in order to support the demands of video.

via [ lightreading ]

Will ENUM provide VoIP directory assistance?

With so many telecom, VoIP and mobile services providers it is increasingly becoming difficult to find the phone numbers as there is no directory assistance available. This problem can be solved by ENUM or Telephone Number Mapping which is an internet engineering taskforce standard for directing internet traffic using traditional phone numbers. This standard integrates E 164 phone numbers with IP addressing using the Domain Name System. E164.org enables to access directory of phone numbers over the internet. A DNS zone e164.org is published by the system and is used by various internet applications. This concept will help in mapping phone numbers to an email address, VoIP address or website. It is to be seen whether the telecom companies will implement ENUM or whether the government would have to step in to provide universal directory assistance.

via [ zdnet ]

Ubiquity to provide SIP Application Server to AT & T

Ubiquity software and AT & T Services have entered into a three year agreement under which Ubiquity will provide its SIP application Servers for testing and possible use in giving enhanced broadband services over an integrated VoIP network planned for AT & T customers. AT & T's VoIP based residential service CallVantage is being offered at $ 29.99 per month and it includes unlimited local and long distance calls to U.S. and Canada. The plan includes features such as three way calling, call waiting, call logging etc.

via [ tmcnet ]

BT enters into content agreement for its IPTV service

BT is launching its new television service this autumn. It would be partnering with HIT Entertainment, Nelvana and National Geographic Channel for content. It has already entered into contracts with Warner Music, Paramount   and BBC Worldwide for content. This service will enable viewers to watch digital channels and archived programs on demand through an adapted Freeview box connected to BT broadband. The trial of this service will begin in summer and BT is experimenting with this option in order to generate new sources of revenue. Users would either have to pay per program or a subscription fee to access the on demand service

via  [ ecommercetimes ]

Texas Instruments announces embedded technology named Piqua

Texas Instruments would be introducing an embedded technology that would distribute, real time monitor and correct quality of service issues on IP based services such as VoIP calls. The technology termed as Piqua would be embedded into its silicon for client side devices and network infrastructure equipment. It will enable service providers to monitor and rectify problems such as dropped packets, echo and line delay. Texas Instruments has been recruiting manufacturers and providers of network provisioning tools in order to make Piqua part of their products. The first implementation of Piqua would be available later this year.

via [edn ]

Dittberner Associates releases report on IPTV

According to a report by Dittberner Associates the incremental IPTV market would be reaching $ 336 million by 2013. The number of IPTV subscribers would shoot up to 53 million worldwide by 2013. The report also carried out an in depth study of the impact of IPTV service on Aggregation, Access and Backbone networks. Even though the subscription growth is expected to be slow but the low incremental investment will make it an attractive offering for traditional phone companies. The report also states that IPTV would have a major impact on the design of public networks and manner in which service providers would conduct business.

via [ streaming media]

Skype certifies Sennheiser multimedia handsets

Skype has certified a wide range of Sennheiser multimedia handsets which it believes offer high speech clarity and flexibility required for making Skype internet calls. Sennheiser communications is offering a wide range of headsets created for use with computer and are perfect for making web calls with crystal clear sound quality and acoustics. For example the PC 20 monaural style headset has two 3.5 mm mini plug jacks for easy access to the computer, a noise canceling microphone for speech clarity and a boom for optimal microphone positioning. The other headsets which have been certified by Skype are PC30, PC110, PC120, PC130, PC135, PC140, PC145, PC150, PC 155, PC160, PC165 and M145.

via [ smarthouse ]

Accton and Boingo to jointly develop VoIP products

Accton Technology Corporation and Boingo Wireless Inc would jointly develop VoIP Wi-Fi handsets, personal gateway products and dual mode handsets. The first product will be available in March 2006. Later on dual mode handsets and portable personal gateways will also be introduced. Accton has become the first OEM/ODM company which will embed Boingo’s authentication services in its VoIP product lines. The partnership of Accton with Boingo will ensure that all its future products will be able to identify and access Boingo’s 25,000 global hot spots. These new products will enable VoIP service providers to give more flexibility and opportunities to its users to utilize their low cost VoIP telephony through any of Boingo’s global Wi-Fi network sites in airports, hotels, retail stores etc.

via [ bbwexchange ]

Is Skype 2.0 a virus?

Using Skype 2.0 on Windows XP SP2 produces a Data Execution Prevention (DEP) warning. DEP is a new kind of security mechanism in Windows XP SP2 that prevents common security exploits from launching. In order to solve this problem, one needs to click on the change settings button in the warning dialog box and modify the DEP exception list. One can see Skype in the exception list with an empty checkmark next to it so the next step would be to check the box and hit the OK button. After completing these steps Skype would no longer trigger DEP warning. One thing needs to be kept in mind that turning off DEP protection for Skype can create security concerns. It has been seen that Skype had its own share of vulnerability issues in the past and it is imperative that Skype solves this problem as soon as possible.

via [ zdnet ]

New version of Skype 2.0 is better

The new version of Skype’s Net phone calling software Skype 2.0 has overcome the problems found with the earlier versions of the software. The improvements which have been made in Skype 2.0 are free video calling and the ability to arrange contacts into groups like friends, family and colleagues. The improvements have been made in response to the criticism of the earlier test version of the software. There have been around 222 million downloads of the software and this has enabled Skype to become one of the best known companies offering free software that enables internet connection to double up as local, national and international phone line.

via [ mybroadband]

NTC receives fewer applications for VoIP service providers

National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has officially received only two applications for becoming VoIP service providers. Rules require that VoIP provider must have a capitalization of ten million pesos while resellers need a five million peso performance bond. One of the reasons behind receiving such less number of applications is the high capitalization required. It was done by NTC to discourage fly by night VoIP operators in Philippines. The main reason behind receiving abysmally low applications is the clause in the NTC regulation which requires VoIP providers to interconnect with the telecom companies. VoIP providers feel that telecom providers would drag their feet on the issue of negotiating terms with them.

via [ inq7.net ]

USB VoIP Handset for free

Bargain electronics store Computer Geeks is offering a great deal on a USB VoIP Handset.  Although the handset is priced at $ 39.99 but the store is offering a mail in rebate for $ 39.99 till 31st January. The AU -100 VoIP USB Phone connects via USB 2.0 and features noise reduction, full duplex communication and echo cancellation. Although it is not one of the best VoIP PC handsets but the best thing about is that it is free. To avail this offer one should not forget to mail in the rebate form. This phone is fully compatible with Vonage, Skype, Net2Phone, MSN Messenger etc.

via [ i4u ]

Kodak and Skype introduce Kodak Photo Voice

Eastman Kodak and Skype have released the latest innovation in digital storytelling, Kodak Photo Voice. This new service will enable the users to hold internet phone conversations around the globe and also share their photographs online. The beta version of Kodak Photo Voice can be downloaded freely from www.kodakgallery.com/photovoice. It will enable two people to simultaneously view a customized slideshow and discuss verbally about it. A person can select photographs from a PC or Kodak Easy Share Gallery album and can then compile the photographs into a Kodak Photo Voice Presentation and call the other person via Skype in order to watch the slideshow live.

via [ itwire ]

Infonetics Research predicts VoIP service growth in North America

According to Infonetics Research, VoIP service revenue in North America will multiply eighteen times between 2004 and 2009 to $ 23.4 billion. During the five year period $ 62 billion will be spent on VoIP services. Infonetics Research is expecting a triple digit growth from 2005 to 2006. It is also expected that six million new subscribers will be added every year from 2006 to 2008. Currently Vonage is the leader in the residential and VoIP subscriber market while Time Warner Cable and Cablevision each have a double digit share and together control over 40 % of all North American residential VoIP subscribers.

via [ zdnet ]

Only 4 % of Western European households have IPTV

According to an estimate by Canalys 50 % of digital TV households in Western Europe receive service via satellite, 24 % use terrestrial broadcast, 22% make use of cable and only 4 % make use of IPTV.  A large number of European digital TV viewers are paying for the privilege but free service is gaining momentum and accounts for more than 20 % of the market. It is expected that 40 % of European digital TV households will be utilizing free services by 2008. Digital TV market crossed 50 million households in the first half of 2005. Although satellite is the leading technology but cable, terrestrial and IPTV are gaining steam.

via [ zdnet ]

Can Skype function as hearing aid?

This is certainly good news for those people who are hard of hearing. The equipments required are Pocket PC with Skype connected to WiFi or wireless router and another computer having Skype connection. Ensure that the microphone plugged into the other computer is sensitive. The amazing audio quality of Skype sound on the Pocket PC and the other PC ensure that even a pin drop is heard in the room with ease. This will help in avoiding hearing aid in the house and provide audio quality which will solve the problem at least for a few things.

via [ mathaba]

Tech Data and Mitel enter into a distribution agreement

According to an agreement Tech Data will be distributing Mitel’s hardware, software and peripherals. It is a noteworthy development that Tech Data will be providing end to end products from Mitel. This agreement will run through Tech Data’s Telephony Specialized Business Unit and will provide Tech Data’s resellers with Mitel communication solutions for enterprises ranging from 10 to 65,000 employees. The distribution agreement with Mitel makes Tech Data the only U.S. broadline distributor to provide Mitel’s software, hardware and other accessories.

via [ crn ]

Interlink to provide point to point video and multi participant video conferencing product

Interlink Global Corp will be providing a point to point video product and a multi participant video conferencing product through its existing VoIP network. These new products can be downloaded on to a computer and will allow on net users to make point to point calls at no charge. Point to point video product will allow up to 11 simultaneous users on the same video conference call. A built in recording feature in multi participant video conferencing phone will enable the call moderator to record the calls for quality and archiving purposes. The point to point product will be a free product for existing customers but the multi participant video conference phone will invite charges. In order to provide these products Interlink has signed a memorandum of agreement with I Stream

via  [ financialnewsusa ]

Pac-West to become a one stop service bureau

Pac–West has signed a strategic alliance with VeriSign under which VeriSign will supply back office and database services including local number portability, calling party name and provisioning services. Pac –West will be combining these services with their network in order to give service providers a one stop service bureau for E911, customer ordering, directly services and physical infrastructure. This will enable Pac-West to establish a one stop shop for service providers that plan to become phone companies. The company believes the move was necessary as the phone calls will be migrating from the current switch network over the IP networks in the next five years.

via [  von magazine ]

Ipoque launches add on filters for blocking Skype

Ipoque has launched a new add on filter for its PRX Traffic Manager which would enable to block communication from Skype program. This step was taken as Skype was posing a number of security problems for networks which ranged from published vulnerabilities to consumption of bandwidth and the current client using strong encryption which posed regulatory and information risk in certain environments. The company is confident about its module in blocking Skype traffic. According to unconfirmed sources even the U.S. government is trying to find out ways to block Skype traffic in times of national security.

via [ techworld ]

Long distance wedding through VoIP

Two Indonesians in their 50’s tied nuptial knot through VoIP. They exchanged their wedding vows in a ceremony by making use of VoIP technology. Interestingly the groom Wiriadi Sutrisno lives in America while the bride Rita Sri Mutiara Dewi lives in Indonesia. When Sutrisno proposed to Dewi last year, they wondered how they would exchange their vows. In came PT Telekomunikasi to their rescue by arranging speaker phones, video screens and a Webcam. Not only did the VoIP technology help in bringing two hearts closer but also resulted in cost cuttings. The 25 minute ceremony cost just $ 21.30.

via [zdnet ]

Airplanes will soon provide Broadband and Cheaper Phone calls on board

US regulators plan to auction off airwaves for wireless broadband and other data services from May 10th onwards. This will enable air travelers to surf web using broadband or make calls from their seats itself. Verizon and other service providers are planning to bid for this auction. FCC wants to raise a minimum of $ 5 million from this auction. This step could generate a new line of revenue for cash strapped airline industry which could partner with companies wanting to provide broadband and cheaper on board telephone services. The customers will also gain as they will be able to surf the internet and make cheap calls from the airplane itself.

via  [ gizmodo ]

Jaanus Kase points fingers at Bill Gates web cast

Jaanus Kase of Skype watched the Bill Gates web cast from the International CES 2006 in which he talked about his vision of digital lifestyle. It stated that the day would start with watching news and tracking family members’ locations on single big screen. While going to office one would be able to watch the news on a cell phone and sit down with big screens to do his work. At an airport one would be able to place his cell phone on a smart desk and work in the same manner as working on a normal PC. Jaanus Kase stated that although it was a nice vision but Microsoft did not have a reputation of delivering such big visions.

via  [ zdnet ]

VoIP User shows sign of Scalability

VoIP User announced that since its inception two years back it has routed 500,000 calls to and fro BT’s PSTN network without any charge for its users. VoIP User is a community website which allows its members to self fund their own telephone calls by VoIP technology. It is a scalable concept and has done away with the concept of paying per minute charges. Currently VoIP User has a base of 20,000 members in 50 countries and it continues to grow at the rate of 40 subscribers daily.

via [ prweb ]

VoIP security needs to be addressed

Whenever a technology is implemented with data or any kind of voice or banking information questions are raised about how secure it is. VoIP is one such technology regarding which security issues are being put up. Since VoIP uses IP addresses for locating other entities in the voice communication network therefore IP security becomes a major issue which needs to be addressed in order to secure the VoIP network. A number of VoIP security issues can be catered to by implementing general IP security. Threats to VoIP security must be studied so that a system can be put in place that will follow the basic security recommendations

via [IT Observer]

IPTV and VoIP result in increased investment in MPLS based metro Ethernet equipment

According to a study conducted by Infonetics Research, carriers and service providers are investing heavily in metro Ethernet and IP multiprotocol label switching technologies in order to bring new converged services to the market. A survey conducted on companies stated that the investment in MPLS based metro Ethernet equipment doubled last year from 42 to 84 percent. The increase in investment is as a result of rising traffic accompanied by the introduction of converged services like voice and internet television. It is expected that there will be a big increase in revenues from VoIP, IP VPN and metro Ethernet.

via [ cmpnetasia ]

Vistula strikes a deal with IUSA to provide VoIP services in States and Latin America

Vistula Communications has struck a deal with IUSACom Networks to provide feature rich telephone services to its subscribers and cost effective turnkey voice services to its residential and enterprise customers in United States and Latin America. According to the agreement Vistula will be installing their V Cube VoIP platform and delivering a turnkey feature rich VoIP application to IUSACom to cater to both its consumer and enterprise markets. The VoIP platform provided by Vistula will allow IUSACom to offer cost effective telephony services ranging from IP telephone calls to video conferencing to its customers.

via  [ Hispanic business ]

Vonage provides E911 service in over 1900 PSAPs across United States

Vonage Marketing has started providing emergency 911 services in over 1900 Public Safety Answering Points across U.S. Within one week Vonage deployed an additional forty one calling centers in over twenty five counties with 911 calling capabilities. FCC gave 120 days to Vonage and other Internet based phone service companies to create and provide an E911 system to all its customers across America. Within the period specified Vonage worked closely with local 911 centers to provide E911 to as may customers as possible. Vonage is still working to provide all its customers with access to E911 customers.