AudioCodes '09 HD audio push

AudioCodes is pushing high-definition audio VoIP big time for 2009. The company says Microsoft is considering AudioCodes HD technology for integration into Microsoft Office Communicator.

VoIPerfectHD, AudioCode's HD technology, would be integrated directly into Microsoft Office Communicator to provide improved voice quality between Microsoft-based voice customers. Something called "the advanced gateway" would include the real-time wideband audio encoder inside AudioCode's gateway.

AudioCodes says HD could provide to be a key differentiator for Microsoft as it goes head to head with Avaya and Nortel to get into the enterprise space. Wideband encoders are reportedly so much better that not only do customers embrace it (i.e. buy it), but they encourage other people to try it.

HD products for both service providers and enterprise customers are expected to hit the market in the first three months of 2009.

If AudioCodes is correct, HD voice may be reaching critical mass in the marketplace. Digium, Polycom, Skype, and snom all have products or baked-in support for wideband codes.

For more:
- Redmond Channel Partner Online reports [1] Microsoft working with HD audio.