Microsoft, Softbank BB, Japan Telecom Team on VoIP

Microsoft is making another move in VoIP, this time in Japan in a partnership with Softbank BB and Japan Telecom that will offer a combination VoIP with e-mail, groupware, and desktop services, the company said Wednesday.

Microsoft’s Japanese unit will offer Microsoft Solution for Enhanced VoIP Services with hosted versions of the firm’s server products including Microsoft Exchange Server 2003, Microsoft Office Live Communications Server 2005 and Windows SharePoint Services with Sylantro Systems’ Application Feature Server.

The Microsoft features will be coupled with IP phone expertise from Softbank BB and managed network service from Japan Telecom.

Trials of the service are scheduled to get underway in the spring. Financial terms were not announced, but the companies said the service will be targeted at small and medium businesses.

Microsoft has been gradually moving into VoIP, forging partnerships recently with MCI and Qwest. Microsoft added expertise in VoIP by acquiring Teleo earlier this year.