Verizon (News - Alert) Communications customers will now have features like text messaging and calendar synchronization as part of new updates for the company's VoIP service, a report posted on PC World said.

 

The customers of Verizon’s Hosted IP Centrex package will get services that can be used on a Web-based interface or run in conjunction with a stand-alone desktop client and Microsoft (News - Alert) Outlook plug-in.

 

Although many other companies provide similar features, Verizon first sought to build the network and platform to offer scalability and enterprise-level features. Verizon, which couldn’t offer users access to calendars and text messaging before, is now able to use these new platforms to offer the services.

 

The Integrated Communications Package starts at $5.50 per user, per month, and if the user wants advanced service, including Microsoft Office plug-ins and real-time call management, its $7.50 per month.

 

With this package, users can access voice, e-mail, control incoming and outgoing calls, manage their online presence, send text messages and synchronize contacts and calendars.

 

Jeff Cayer, group manager of VoIP marketing for Verizon Business was quoted in the report as saying the major advantage of the new features is the ability of the customer to manage communications wherever they are or whenever want. Unlike other services, the end user will have the control over who calls and when they call.

 

With the Integrated Communications Package from Verizon, users are given the ability to better manage communications and provide improved collaboration and mobility functionality for government and business employees using VoIP.