German conglomerate Siemens and computer giant IBM are teaming up to offer Internet phone calls directly from e-mail or instant messaging applications.
The two companies plan to embed Siemens HiPath softswitches for voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) into IBM's Lotus Notes and Domino business software.
Customers will be able to make phone calls and conference calls with one click from their e-mail, Web conferencing or instant messaging sessions, Siemens said.
It added that the integrated features were expected to be available to customers by this summer.
The software effectively enables users to make phone calls to anywhere in the world for free. The only charge would be the cost of their Internet connection. Many experienced Net users avail of similar software which can be installed on home PCs.
