Blackberries now integrate with desk phones

Blackberry maker RIM has unveiled a solution to integrate its smartphones with office desk phones.

The Blackberry Mobile Voice System (MVS) is an integrated offering that includes enhancements to the Blackberry Device Software, Blackberry Enterprise Server and the Ascendent Voice Mobility Suite from Ascendent Systems (a RIM subsidiary).

Blackberry MVS enables users to access PBX functions directly from the menu interface of the Blackberry phone application, and use their Blackberry smartphone as a secure mobile extension of their desk phone.

The user’s corporate identity (caller ID) is extended to the Blackberry handset, and allows users to give out one "reach me anywhere" phone number that simultaneously rings their desk phone and Blackberry smartphone.

Mobile users can also access desk phone functions such as call transfer and direct extension dialling from the Blackberry phone menu.

"Fixed mobile convergence promises the opportunity for organisations to better support their mobile workers and improve productivity," said Gene Signorini, an analyst at Yankee Group.

Blackberry MVS will be available later this month.

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