BT releases free cross-platform videoconferencing management tool

BT has released a free application that allows iPhone, iPad and Android devices to work with most major videoconferencing systems.

BT Engage Meeting Mobile lets IT administrators schedule and manage videoconferencing calls using existing systems from Cisco, LifeSize, Polycom and Tandberg.

The free application lets the meeting controller start and end calls, bring in third parties and control videoconferencing equipment remotely.

Cam Laughlin, BT's head of videoconferencing management, told V3.co.uk that the goal is to build applications that let managers schedule and run video calls, and allow cross-platform calls to take place on a greater variety of devices.

"That's our vision: you'd not only be controlling the units, but be able to control and participate in the call. That target's not so far off really. Android is looking very promising for this," she said.

The new application works with BT Engage Meeting Manager, and Laughlin said that BT has been working with major videoconferencing vendors to ensure interoperability.

A recent report by Ovum suggested that videoconferencing is experiencing a boom, as cheaper technology and higher travel costs prompt more companies to consider virtual meetings more frequently.

However, the analysts noted that concerns over interoperability are still preventing the technology entering the mainstream.

As for mobile videoconferencing, Apple's FaceTime application for iOS has garnered early support among handset and tablet users, while RIM has its own software for the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet and Polycom is planning a similar system for the Motorola Xoom tablet.