Vendors Add Support For Microsoft VoIP Service

By Staff -- TWICE, 10/27/2008

Santa Clara, Calif. — VoIP firm 8x8 and phone maker ClearOne both embraced Microsoft's Response Point VoIP service.

The Max IP conferencing system from ClearOne is compatible with all current Response Point–enabled hardware from Aastra, D-Link and Quanta.

It features the firm's HDConference audio-processing technology for echo and noise cancellation, full duplex, first microphone priority and a dedicated Response Point button for accessing the system's voice-activated features.

Up to four units can be connected to provide coverage for large rooms.

VoIP firm 8x8 said in September that it had sealed a technology partnership and marketing agreement with Microsoft. The agreement lets 8x8 offer telephony service for Response Point.

Under terms of the agreement, Packet8 and Microsoft Response Point will jointly market the combined solution through their respective VAR channels and will also investigate potential collaboration in selling the combined offering through business retail partners, the companies said.

Both firms will market the service on their Web sites and in select channels. According to 8x8, the Packet8 VoIP service has been tested and certified through the Microsoft Response Point Certification Program.

Launched by Microsoft in March 2007, the Response Point service is geared toward small-business users. The IP-based service offers a voice-activated interface and integrates with Microsoft Outlook.