The dual-mode phone would include key features of mobile cellular, 802.11 wireless and enterprise fixed networks, the companies said. The phone would operate using WiFi technology inside an enterprise and cellular telephony elsewhere. The companies promise a seamless handoff between the networks.
The phone would be available as an extension to Cisco’s CallManager IP communications systems using a standards-based interface.
Motorola’s element would include dual-mode devices and network mobility enabled by its Wireless Services Manager. Cisco would provide IP telephony and WLAN infrastructure.
Motorola said its alliance with Cisco is part of its broader enterprise market strategy. Cisco said the convergence of cellular and WLAN networks would be a booster to enterprise IP-applications.
A dual-mode solution will add a very important dimension to Cisco’s growing voice business, said Barry O’Sullivan, VP and general manager of Cisco IP communications business unit, in a statement.
