Microsoft (News - Alert) Lync will offer a single-client, enterprise-ready unified communications (UC) platform – and there are many impressive features found in the anticipated new version.
Via Windows 8 and other devices, Lync connects users worldwide. It is used for instant messaging (IM), voice, video, presence and meetings. Users of Lync 2013 can connect via Skype (News - Alert), as well, the company said.
It features a new interface, with task menus and pictures of contacts. It also has chat rooms, which can be used for video gaming chat, sales, or other discussion topics, according to a GetVoIP.com blog post. In addition, users can search and save any conversation on Lync. It has, too, tabbed conversations so users can switch between contacts and not use multiple windows. Lync supports high DPI, as well. Device reporting and device indication help in getting responses regarding an end-user's device.
And when it comes to HD videoconferencing, it provides support for 1080p HD resolution. Face detection and smart framing improve visibility. Microsoft Lync 2013 lives in the cloud, and can host meetings through a browser, supporting VoIP, IM, and desktop sharing. Microsoft offers Lync mobile applications for Windows Phone, iOS, and Android (News - Alert) operating systems. Lync Server 2013 has routing features which improve enterprise voice. Lync Server connects IP-PBX and PSTN gateway.
In addition, Verizon (News - Alert) has unveiled managed Microsoft Lync Service. Verizon's Managed UC&C for Microsoft Lync Server 2010 can be used with SIP Trunking via managed session border controllers (SBCs), according to GetVoIP.com.
"Demand for truly integrated, enterprise-ready communications platforms for information sharing and collaboration is exploding on a global basis," Martin Burvill, senior vice president of global operations for Verizon Enterprise Solutions, said in a recent company statement. "The introduction of Managed UC&C for Microsoft Lync is an important component of our overall strategy to advance the way businesses operate through more effective engagement with employees, customers and partners. Enabling a modern workforce to more quickly connect by using video, voice and the Web is essential to speeding decision-making for greater productivity."
Also, when it comes to emergency communications, 911 Enable has E911 emergency support for Microsoft Lync 2013.
“We’re proud to offer the industry’s first E911 solutions that support Lync 2013, including its enhanced features such as support for Lync clients accessed through Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI),” Lev Deich, a director of 911 Enable, said in a company statement. Specifically, 911 Enable provides Emergency Routing Service (ERS) for Lync 2013.
Want to learn more about the latest in communications and technology? Then be sure to attend ITEXPO Miami 2013, Jan 29- Feb. 1 in Miami, Florida. Stay in touch with everything happening at ITEXPO (News - Alert). Follow us on Twitter.
Edited by Rachel Ramsey