BT - global telepresence interconnection

BT Launches Inter-company TelePresence Capability with BT Global Video Exchange

BT today announced the availability of BT Global Video Exchange, a service that enables Cisco Telepresence connections between companies. With this new service, companies can now connect to external business partners that have Cisco TelePresence systems.

With businesses focusing on reducing travel costs and lowering CO2 emissions, an increasing number are deploying immersive technology as a viable solution. Cisco TelePresence systems combine life-sized, high-definition video, spatial audio and a specially designed interactive environment to create the feeling of being in the same room as participants in remote locations. BT Global Video Exchange increases the utility of Cisco TelePresence by enabling interconnections between companies, driving more potential for use and faster return on investment. BT's networked IT heritage and the reach and quality of its MPLS network enable the delivery of world class services.

BT Global Video Exchange offers significant benefits and versatility to customers, including:

Full conferencing services, including set-up, live call monitoring and assistance and 24-hour help-desk support

A high level of multi-layered security

Global reach.

BT Global Video Exchange is available now in the United States, UK and EMEA. Asia Pacific service will be available in the second half of 2009.

Aaron McCormack, CEO of BT Conferencing, said: "BT Global Video Exchange makes the promise of inter-company TelePresence a reality. The new services supported by BT Global Video Exchange help companies maximize their investments in TelePresence technology by allowing them to collaborate with partners, suppliers, customers and others around the globe. Our delivery of this offering further solidifies our global market leadership, video expertise and commitment to innovation."

Ross Fowler, vice president, service provider, European Markets, Cisco, commented: "The cost, efficiency and environmental arguments for Cisco TelePresence are now just too strong to ignore, and we see strong growth opportunities for video communication across a range of sectors. Today's announcement represents a first step towards 'anywhere, anytime' Cisco TelePresence capabilities for BT's global customers." Initially, BT Global Video Exchange will offer three levels of flexible service:

Producer-assisted offers full conferencing services with in-call monitoring and assistance available.

Automated self-service provides call assistance with no live call monitoring.

Direct Dial scheduling allows for reservation-less, point-to-point connections. In-call assistance is available on demand, with no call monitoring.

The launch of BT Global Video Exchange builds on BT's strong existing partnership with Cisco. BT recently became the first service provider to complete the Cisco TelePresence Global Authorized Technology Provider (ATP) program. In July 2008, BT also announced that it has earned Cisco's Global Certification status by expanding the geographical scope of its existing Cisco specializations in unified communications, routing and switching, security and wireless. Additionally, BT announced in June 2007 that it had earned the Cisco Powered TelePresence Connection certification.