8x8's Packet8's Virtual Office Phone System is now available through 900 OfficeMax stores nationwide. Customers can purchase a Packet8 Virtual Office phone package for $129.99 and start using it "within minutes" after installation and activation. Buying the package at OfficeMax gives subscribers one free month of service, followed by a monthly price of $39.99.
A hosted VoIP service, Virtual Office includes an auto attendant, worldwide extension dialing, business class voicemail, a full featured conference bridge and ring groups. Other a la carte features include an unlimited fax extension and unlimited U.S. and an selective worldwide call plans.. Packet8 also offers a free software client application to interface to Salesforce.com.
Hopefully the OfficeMax deal will have more legs than 8x8's last retail arrangement. CompUSA was to sell Packet8 Virtual Office around this time last year and effectively kicked the bucket in December 2007.
For more:
- 8x8's OfficeMax Packet8 Virtual Office Phone announcement [1]
- PC World's review of Virtual PBX services [2], including Packet8
Related articles:
8x8, Inc. Offers Free International Mobile Calling [3] With New Packet8 MobileTalk Trial Program
VoIP Monitor reports 8x8/CompUSA deal Article [4]
Links:
[1] http://www.fiercewireless.com/press-releases/packet8-virtual-office-business-phone-system-now-available-officemax-retail-outlets
[2] http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/143392/virtual_pbx_puts_a_professional_spin_on_voip.html
[3] http://www.fiercewireless.com/press-releases/8x8-inc-offers-free-international-mobile-calling-new-packet8-mobiletalk-trial-progr-0
[4] http://www.voipmonitor.net/2006/04/27/8x8+Signs+With+CompUSA+For+Packet8+Virtual+Office+VoIP.aspx