Verizon unifies biz VoIP

The business unit of Verizon is launching unified communications VoIP enhancements for its Hosted IP Centrex systems. The Integrated Communications Package encompasses management of voicemail, phone calls, online presence, text messaging, contacts and calendars.

Verizon Business, based in Basking Ridge, N.J., said the package will become available next month to U.S. customers using its Hosted IP Centrex, and internationally later this year. The features will eventually be integrated with Verizon's multimedia conferencing and contact center services. The basic package is reported to start at $5.50 per user per month; an advanced version with a Microsoft Office plug-in will be $7.50.

The package extends the Verizon Business VoIP portfolio beyond network and exchange technology to individual users, just as unified communications catches fire. The idea is to marry instant messaging, phone calls, email, texting, etc., under a single management application, so far-flung offices can function in virtual proximity.    

For More:
- The official word from Verizon Business is here
- PC World adds an analyst comment at the end of its news here

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