Thing5 signs VoIP deal

Guests in around 1,300 hotels will be given access to voice over internet protocol (VoIP) technology after Thing 5 announced an agreement with Verizon Business.

The messaging-based software services provider will utilise its hosted platform via a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model, which will enable the firm to deliver voice mail, automatic call distribution, audio conferencing, faxing and instant messaging services.

The new VoIP solution will encompass 275,000 phones in chains including La Quinta, Extended Stay Hotels and LXR Luxury Resorts.

Bill Faxon, managing director of Thing5, said: "The hospitality industry has a set of unique business characteristics and requirements.

"Working with Verizon Business, we have a flexible and reliable IP network over which we are able to provide our customers highly available voice and messaging platforms.

"The IP networking capabilities delivered by Verizon Business enable Thing5 to help our hospitality clients control costs through our SaaS model."