VoIP News: February 2008

Technology and innovation company Cambridge Consultants has announced it has secured a deal to develop a next-generation Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) handset for xG Technology. The wireless handset should allow consumers and network operators to save on the cost of rolling out a mobile network, the company has said. Once completed, the TX60 handset will allow the wide area wireless mobile VoIP network to be implemented with a mass-produced handset for the first time, something Cambridge Consultants suggests it will be "delighted" to help with.

The chairman of the government's leading broadband advisory group has suggested the UK should improve its preparedness for next-generation broadband. Addressing the annual conference of the CMA this week, Broadband Stakeholder Group (BSG) chairman Kip Meek suggested the UK's "relative absence" in terms of next-generation access should be addressed. He said it was "unchallengeable" that the UK was lagging behind some of its international peers.

Voice over internet protocol (VoIP) phone manufacturer snom has announced a strategic partnership with internet protocol private branch exchange (IP PBX) software provider 3XC that will provide businesses with a "reliable and affordable" VoIP service. The companies have announced that interoperability testing for their products is now complete, meaning businesses can use either snom's VoIP phones or 3CX's IP PBX software knowing that they are fully supported by both vendors.

The growth in sales for mobile broadband could see the technology overtake traditional fixed-line connections within the next two years, according to reports. Computer Shopper said comparison site Top 10 Broadband started tracking the sales of mobile broadband six months ago and since then, they have recorded 50 per cent rises month-on-month. Jessica McCardle said customers were attracted to mobile broadband as it offers more flexibility, especially for laptop owners.

The Unified Communications Expo '08, incorporating the VoIP for Business event, will take place in London this April, it has been announced. Over 500 voice over internet protocol (VoIP), video conferencing and other unified communications products will be showcased at the free expo, which will be held in the National Hall at the Olympia. In addition, there will be 80 education seminars covering subjects such as VoIP, mobility, messaging and technical implementation.