IBM has announced that it will integrate its Lotus Sametime 7.5 instant messaging (IM) software for businesses into Microsoft Outlook, Office, SharePoint, RIM Blackberry devices, Nokia, and mobile products running on the Windows Mobile operating system.
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Lotus Sametime 7.5 provides visibility of online presence and status updates of members. |
Microsoft customers will easily access the Sametime 7.5 IM program without the need for costly upgrades. Within word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation applications, users will have the opportunity to send messages directly, initiate calls, share applications, or set up webinars.
Outlook account holders will be able to monitor online presence information, schedule appointments, and access all features of Lotus Sametime directly from their Inbox. Through mobile devices, customers can see who in their group is online, their locations, and communicate quickly via IM or voice chat.
Additionally, users can fully utilize the capabilities of compatible plug-ins and Web 2.0 technologies. For example, Lotus Sametime mashups can identify the location and status of group members in the contact list and display this information on an online map.
Sametime 7.5 is the only enterprise instant messaging platform that can identify users’ locations. Moreover, the system allows for VoIP conversations among multiple users. This IBM program operates across various platforms, including Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Lotus Sametime 7.5 is set to officially launch in Q3 of 2006. Support for RIM Blackberry, Nokia, and Windows Mobile devices will be available starting in Q4, while integration with Microsoft SharePoint, Outlook, and Office applications will begin in early 2007.
T.N.
