Sony Puts Videoconferencing Into VoIP

Sony has teamed up with IP-based video communications service provider GlowPoint to provide its customers IVE - short for Instant Video Everywhere. The new service will allow users to videoconference wherever broadband access is available.

IVE will come in three different offerings -- one for business which is now available; a mobile version that is aimed at telecommuters and business travelers; and a home service for everyday videoconferencing uses for consumers.

"We've created an engaging communications experience, allowing people to interact wherever they are," Michael McCausland, vice president of visual communications at Sony Electronics said in prepared remarks.

"Using the power of IP-based video, we have teamed up with GlowPoint to expand video communications beyond the conference room to where people actually conduct business - at their desks, in their home offices or on the road."

Sony says that its videoconferencing software is manufacturer-agnostic - meaning that a user does not need to have a certain type of hardware to use the program. "This is more than a video communications product and service," GlowPoint CEO David Trachtenberg said. "It is a video-enabled community that truly delivers on the promise of anytime, anywhere face-to-face communications."

Users of IVE will have video voicemail and direct-dial video numbers, as well as access to live Sony operators and a IVE calling assistant named "Lisa." Calling plans from GlowPoint will allow unlimited access, as will as exclusive video content from Sony.

For example, dialing S-O-N-Y (7669) will give users video previews of Sony films as well as promotional materials on Sony's products.

Pricing for the Business version is $499 USD per month, with the Mobile version starting at $35 USD per month. Pricing for the Home version has not yet been announced. Users can find out more about Sony IVE by visiting the GlowPoint Web site.