snom technology has added auto-configuration with Microsoft Lync servers directly from the 7xx series and snom 821 UC edition phones for plug-and-play provisioning, and is planning new enhancements, like Wi-Fi authentication.
The snom 7xx series and snom 821 UC edition phones feature new base firmware that enables the phones to natively connect to the Lync server for out-of-the box configuration, a boon in multi-site enterprise Microsoft Lync environments.
“snom continues to find new ways to simplify Lync with voice deployments by improving connectivity and compatibility of standards-based snom UC edition phones,” said Dr. Michael Knieling, managing director at snom. “We’re the first standards-based Lync-qualified phones to offer plug-and-play integration with Lync, taking our phones a step beyond other market options. Our easy configuration process and new features will continue to address critical Lync Voice requirements in enterprise businesses.”
The snom 710, 720 and 760 IP phones and the snom 821 all employ the company’s Apollo firmware and have passed the Microsoft Compatible Devices Program’s testing process for full qualification and certification with Lync.
The models serve various niches within the enterprise. The executive snom 760 UC edition desktop phone for senior managers and knowledge workers features PBX-style keys and rich visual information; the snom 720 UC edition IP multi-purpose manager-level desktop phone, also offering advanced audio and rich visuals; and the snom 710 UC edition is a general office phone for the cubicle workforce, appropriate for small or large-scale deployments in a multitude of business scenarios. All phones feature support for high definition wideband voice, programmable function keys and an intuitive user interface with integrated Lync features.
The snom 821 UC edition desktop phone is an advanced IP desktop model for the executive or knowledge worker. It features a high-resolution color display and advanced presence features integrated with call history and the contact list.
snom also revealed support for several enhanced Lync features for its snom UC edition phones, now in an advanced development stage and set for release in the coming months. These include deeper integration and support for Lync collaboration and calling features, including click-to-call; 802.1x authentication for endpoint security for Lync with voice deployments, and a conferencing user interface for joining and participating in Lync web conferences, using snom UC edition phones.
“snom’s endpoint out-of-the-box provisioning provides a huge benefit to businesses and Microsoft Partners, who will value plug-and-play configuration from the phone to Lync server infrastructure,” said Mike Storella, COO at snom. “snom’s standards-based SIP Lync-qualified phones continue to raise the bar, offering the same high quality Lync compatibility, features and integration as comparable Lync-compatible endpoints, but at a far more affordable price.”
