InnoMedia Debuts MTA 5000 Videophones with Advanced Features for Mobile
InnoMedia today unveiled the new generation of videophones with innovative features such as Wireless LAN, PSTN fallback and 3G interoperability. This MTA 5000 series of videophones feature a stylish look, designed by world-class industrial design house GE/Fitch. InnoMedia sets precedence in combining IP and PSTN services in a single device – MTA 5000 videophones enable both incumbent and competitive operators to offer innovative and competitive video telephony services, including wireless LAN and 3G compatibility.
The two models available today are MTA 5531 and MTA 5410. The MTA 5531 comes with Wireless LAN, PSTN connectivity, a 5-inch LCD and an optional video answering machine. The MTA 5410 offers basic features that enable users to enjoy no-frills video telephony. Both models are equipped with a build-in NAT router for PC internet access while the video telephony session is still on, sharing the same broadband link. The new generation of phones is designed with an icon-based menu system for easy access to all features, multi-language support and even various ring tone options.
First-In-The-World
“PSTN connectivity is one of the most important features service operators are looking for, in ensuring a compelling business model for successful roll out of IP telephony services. We are proud to be amongst the first in the world to combine IP and PSTN services into one single device,” said Dr. Nan-Sheng Lin, President and co-founder of InnoMedia.
Current models of the MTA 5000 videophone will support the industry SIP protocol initially, and H.323 and MGCP versions will be available in the later part of this year. By adopting standard protocols, full interoperability with industry call agents, softswitches and backend infrastructure is ensured, enabling service operators to deploy telephony services in the shortest time.
PSTN Connectivity
PSTN connectivity enables users to use the same broadband IP videophone to make or receive regular voice calls from the PSTN network. This is an appealing feature for both incumbent and competitive service providers. Incumbent operators will be able to provide Voice and Video over IP services on top of existing PSTN services via a single device, without changing subscriber’s phone number and dialing habits. Competitive operators will be able to offer alternate voice and video services over IP and avoid many first line regulatory issues as one can still make outgoing calls via PSTN even in the event of a power failure.
Wireless LAN
The PCMCIA Wireless LAN feature removes all wiring issues associated with deploying videophones in residential and corporate environment. “Wireless LAN is the perfect solution to home wiring problems, especially when broadband access devices such as the cable modem may not be situated at places where you want your phone to be,” said Mr. Alex Chua, Director Product Management of InnoMedia.
3G Compatible
MTA 5000 series of videophones are compatible with 3G mobile systems. Users of InnoMedia videophones can make video calls at home to mobile users of 3G video-enabled cellular telephones. InnoMedia videophones are currently in use throughout Hong Kong through a video telephony service called VFone, offered by CK Communications and Hutchison Global Communications. VFone service subscribers are making video calls to Hutchison 3’s mobile 3G users.
“I am looking forward to the new models with more innovative features. This will enable us to offer various handset choices for our customers,” said Mr. Gerald Ma, Director of CK Communications Limited.
Price and Availability
The MTA 5000 series of videophones will be available worldwide starting next month. For pricing and product inquiries please contact Alex Chua (65) 6586-9141 or alex_chua@innomedia.com.sg.
About InnoMedia
Founded in 1995, InnoMedia is a privately held multinational organization with operations in the United States, Singapore, Taiwan and China. The company delivers Internet and broadband access IP telephony solutions to broadband service providers, as well as OEM and distribution partners. InnoMedia has the most advanced, award-winning portfolio of IP telephony solutions available in the market today, delivering high-quality voice and video over any IP network. Ng Kai Wa, a co-founder of InnoMedia, was formerly a co-founder and CTO of Creative Technology. During the first half of 2000, InnoMedia raised US$119.5 million in funding.
For more information on InnoMedia, visit the company’s website at www.innomedia.com