RIM brings voice over Wi-Fi to Mobile Voice System

Some BlackBerry users will soon be able to make calls over Wi-Fi

BlackBerry maker Research In Motion (RIM) has followed its release of two new handsets with an update to its Mobile Voice System (MVS).

The company said that the MVS 5 update would integrate with Cisco's Unified Communications Manager and allow users to access features of their desktop VoIP phone systems over a Wi-Fi connection.

The update will allow users to operate office phones and mobile phones through a single number, and make calls via Wi-Fi when connected to a wireless network.

"BlackBerry MVS 5 effectively provides a wireless extension of the corporate phone system to allow voice over Wi-Fi calling at work, public hotspots and home," said Alan Panezic, RIM vice president of platform product management.

"It presents a great opportunity for companies to enhance the productivity of employees who are often away from their desks or working from home, such as workers in construction, hospitality, sales and professional services."

The update will also allow administrators to prioritise Wi-Fi or cellular network calls, and control which Wi-Fi networks an employee handset can access.

Administrators can control which handsets can connect to the phone system and allow users to create incoming call filters. In addition to the Cisco platform, RIM said that it is working with telcos to extend the update to corporate MVS services.

RIM's announcement of the new MVS system comes on the heels of new BlackBerry Pearl and Storm devices.