LifeSize Provides Video Calling With Skype

LifeSize, a division of Logitech, has plugged its business-class video conferencing solution, LifeSize Passport, into Skype. With it, LifeSize Passport users can create Skype-based video calls worldwide, bringing Skype into the room-based enterprise video conference market.

Introduced in 2009, LifeSize Passport is a telepresence-quality solution that allows organizations to use high-definition video conferences as a mainstream business tool. Customers registered with Skype can log in to their LifeSize Passport with their Skype log-in information, and contacts from their Skype account are automatically added to the LifeSize directory. It is also capable of making calls to landlines and mobile devices via Skype.

"The integration of Skype into an enterprise business video conferencing solution was inevitable," says John Bartlett of UCStrategies. "Skype carries more video conferencing minutes than any other technology in the business, perhaps more than all others combined. Almost anyone I talk to in enterprise video says they use Skype to video-talk to family and friends, especially when traveling. Avaya has announced an agreement with Skype to establish some level of interoperability, and Blue Jeans Network now allows full connections between H.323, SIP and Skype-based video as well. More will come!"

As Dave Michels of UCStrategies wrote in nojitter.com (http://www.nojitter.com/blog/229401846), "This news from LifeSize represents the boldest and most significant move for Skype's foray into the enterprise. So far this year, Skype announced group video calling (not supported on the Passport), multiple mobile plays including the acquisition of Qik and its intended support of Verizon's 4G/LTE network. And a partnership with Citrix that combines Skype's rich audio and visual with GoToMeeting's collaboration service. Last year, Skype launched SkypeConnect to enable enterprises to access Skype's global network via SIP trunks. But interest in video calling is high, and now Skype and LifeSize have bridged the enterprise to the Skype video network. This first version is a bit limited, but it is a profound start. "

Logitech also features the Skype Certified Logitech B910 HD Webcam. It offers HD video conferencing up to 720p, as well as life-like stereo audio on the PC.

The LifeSize Passport version 4.8 will be available for global download in April of 2011.

For more information, visit www.lifesize.com.