Softbank and Microsoft to Launch Low-Cost IP Phone Service for Businesses

Strategic Insights -

Softbank Corp., a Japanese telecommunications provider, and Microsoft Corp. are teaming up to introduce a low-cost IP phone service for businesses. This joint venture aims to provide a cost-effective solution for small and mid-size businesses, allowing them to make and receive voice calls and chat in real-time using text messages on their PCs. The service, set to launch next spring, will combine Softbank's IP phone system with Microsoft's IP phone software, offering features like call management, transfers, and detailed call logging.

Key Takeaways:

  • The service will target small and mid-size businesses, offering a cost-effective solution for their communication needs.
  • The software will be licensed to customers for a certain period, with users paying a software usage fee to Softbank.
  • The service will allow customers to make and receive voice calls and chat in real-time using text messages on their PCs, with voice calls also possible via desktop phone.
  • Calls among customers using the same software will be free, while a nationwide flat rate of around 8 yen per 3 minutes will be charged for calls with non-users.
  • The service will offer an optional transfer service that enables users to route incoming calls to cellular phones or other desk phones in the office.
  • The joint service aims to address the security concerns of businesses regarding Skype's free call service, which lacks phone call management.

Statistics:

  • The service is scheduled to launch in spring.
  • The nationwide flat rate for calls with non-users is around 8 yen per 3 minutes.
  • The software usage fee and other details of the licensing agreement have not been specified.

Sources:

  • The Nihon Keizai Shimbun
  • Nikkei