VMware, a provider of virtualization and cloud infrastructure solutions, announced the launch of the latest cloud deployment and management solution that offers a path for moving messaging and collaboration to the cloud.

The Zimbra (News - Alert) Collaboration Server 8.0 can be deployed in public or private clouds. The solution is flexible enough to fit the needs of an organization.

VMware has partnered with Cisco and Mitel (News - Alert) to offer unified communications capabilities embedded within Zimbra, allowing users to connect their voice and message systems in a unified inbox, enabling Click2Call, voicemail, presence, and chat all from within the Zimbra Web app.

"We're witnessing a fundamental shift in the way people work, and in turn a new set of demands that are put on IT infrastructure and applications like email and integration communications," said John Robb senior director at VMware, in a statement.

"Zimbra 8 is designed to make end users more efficient by connecting them with their data while providing IT departments a simple way to manage the transition to a public or private cloud and help deliver the benefits promised by the post-PC era," Robb added.

The latest version of Zimbra builds on the strength of VMware's cloud expertise, allowing enterprises and small businesses to deploy a browser-based e-mail solution in a private or public cloud, while delivering the advanced features and enterprise functionality that users demand.

Zimbra 8.0 also features a redesigned interface and a smarter mailbox, helping manage the flow of information through their email, calendar, voice and social channels. The solution is available as virtual software appliance that can be deployed quickly, eliminating expensive ongoing management.

The integration option provided in Zimbra 8.0 allows users to connect to their cloud and enables a new way to work in the post-PC era, company officials said. The solution is now available for organizations in beta version.

Zimbra 8.0 combines unified communications with an all-new voice application that features out-of-the-box integration with Cisco (News - Alert) and Mitel UC solutions accessible through the main user interface.  Some of the advanced features include Click-to-Call, Visual Voicemail, Click-to-Chat with Cisco Jabber           integration, Cisco WebEx integration and more.

Recently Cisco also updated its Unified Communications (News - Alert) Manager to version 9.0. One new set of tools provided in version 9.0 provides better automation. Working with Jabber, the Extend and Connect feature will bring any third-party phone into the Cisco UC environment.

The newest release also supports the fixed mobile convergence giving users will mobile phones more access to desk phone-like features on the go. Want to learn more about the latest in communications and technology? Then be sure to attend ITEXPO West 2012, taking place Oct. 2-5, in Austin, TX. ITEXPO (News - Alert) offers an educational program to help corporate decision makers select the right IP-based voice, video, fax and unified communications solutions to improve their operations. It's also where service providers learn how to profitably roll out the services their subscribers are clamoring for – and where resellers can learn about new growth opportunities. For more information on registering for ITEXPO click here.

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