Microsoft has announced a new version of its unified communications platform, adding capabilities for remote and mobile workers, audio teleconferencing and hooks to link the platform with business processes.

Office Communications Server 2007 Release 2, set for launch on 3 February 2009, delivers important new functionality, according to Microsoft.

"This new release puts Microsoft on a rapid path to deliver voice software that does much more than a network private branch exchange and with much less cost," said Stephen Elop, president of Microsoft's Business Division.

Among the new features is the ability for firms to save money by hosting their own on-premise teleconferencing facilities, managed by the IT department as part of the overall communications infrastructure.

Microsoft is also extending its Office Communicator Mobile client beyond its own Windows Mobile platform to support Nokia's S40 phones, Motorola's Razr and BlackBerry handsets.

The mobile client will also support single-number reach, enabling workers to be contacted on any device through one phone number.

For business applications, new APIs and Visual Studio integration will help developers to build communication-enabled software and embed communications into existing applications.

Other features include an attendant console to allow a receptionist or other employee to manage calls and conferences on behalf of other users, and SIP trunking allowing firms to set up a direct connection between an internet telephony service provider and Office Communicator 2007 without the need for on-premise gateways.