Alcatel, Nokia buddy up for mobility

Companies using Alcatel OmniPCX Enterprise IP communication servers will soon be able to integrate much of their functionality into Nokia's business-class E-series phones.

Intellisync Call Connect for Alcatel will enable users to manage the same business number for their office line and mobile device, and promises to provide fixed-line IP features such as call conferencing and call-back.

Jean-Christophe Giroux, president of Alcatel's enterprise solutions division, on Thursday said: "With a business-enabled mobile phone, employees have the freedom to work where it is most productive, while enterprises receive the benefits of predictable and controllable communications costs and enhanced customer service, as callers make immediate contact with the right person."

Intellisync Call Connect for Alcatel - which is part of Nokia's larger Intellisync Mobile Suite - uses the cellular network to connect to a company's PBX infrastructure. This function will soon be enhanced to support both cellular and wi-fi networks with dual-mode phones, according to Nokia.

The product will be available from Q4 2006 through Nokia and Alcatel resellers.

David Meyer writes for ZDNet UK