The big hunk of black plastic that represents the standard office phone hasn't changed much over the years. Most people are happy to have the ability
to transfer calls and a decent sounding speaker phone option. If you think that you must accept the obligatory desk phone, think again. Your standards
for your office's phone are going to shoot sky high after learning about the Alcatel-Lucent OmniTouch 8082 My IC Phone.
The OmniTouch 8082 My IC Phone could – depending on your job function – essentially replace your desk top computer. Sounds too good to be true? Deemed
a "Smart DeskPhone" this new class of phone melds the functionality and features of a sophisticated desk phone with the enterprise applications needed
to run a business. With an operating system integrated into the phone, both applications that already exist as well as newly developed applications can
run on the OmniTouch 8082 with its 7" wide LED backlit touch screen. Through an open interface, Alcatel-Lucent nurtures Application Enablement through
an open API (Application Programming Interface) developer platform that encourages the development of new and innovation applications designed
specifically to run on the OmniTouch 8082. This platform is part of the vibrant Alcatel-Lucent Applications Partner Program (AAPP) which is comprised of 10,000+ active
developers and partner companies. Other notable features include customized ring tone, USB port and an adjustable base which comes in handy with the
Bluetooth handset that allows you to wander up to thirty feet from the base. Having a completely wireless handset means no more incredible shrinking,
tangled phone cord. And with low power consumption, the OmniTouch 8082 can also add green design to its many perks.
Yankee Group, the first independent authority that researches and studies technology solutions that revolve around connectivity recently stated that,
"This new device has the potential to transform the role of the desktop phone. No longer constrained and static, it offers a quicker, more convenient
and reliable alternative, complementing smartphones and desktop computers," said Zeus Kerravala, distinguished research fellow at Yankee Group. "The
device can harness the creativity of third party developers and give business users an emotional attachment to their deskphone, its introduction will
be one to watch."
Alcatel-Lucent reports that the OmniTouch 8082 will be available in late 2010. The expected price is approximately $800 for the phone and $1,300 for
the backend system. For more information, visit Alcatel-Lucent.com.
