12 December 2006

Microsoft, which has high hopes that the convergence of voice and data networks will allow it to get into the unified communications market, is ready with its first test software for running business phone systems.

In June, the software behemoth touted its plans for the market. This week, it's launching a private beta, which will allow about 2,500 people to try out its call-handling software, known as Office Communications Server.

Chris Cullin, a director of product management in Microsoft's unified communications group, said: "Obviously, this is an important milestone toward that vision. This is the first time that the voice components of that vision will be available for customers."