Plantronics Announces World's First VoIP-Optimized Bluetooth Headset System

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May 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Plantronics, Inc. today introduced the Voyager 510-USB, the first Bluetooth headset system optimized for Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) that provides instant wireless connectivity to PC-based softphones. The Voyager 510-USB reflects Plantronics' commitment to developing innovative VoIP products that embody great style, sound and simplicity for both business and consumer applications.

"As VoIP communication becomes increasingly relevant in today's work environment, where professionals conduct business in the car, at coffee houses and in airports across the world, there is strong demand for greater setup and device simplification," said Will Stofega, research manager at IDC. " The Voyager 510-USB makes VoIP intuitive. In doing so, enterprises benefit from reduced IT support and maintenance costs, and professionals benefit from a reliable, easy-to-use wireless headset for their softphones and mobile phones."

The Voyager 510-USB includes a plug-and-play Bluetooth USB adapter that eliminates cumbersome software setup processes and enables mobile professionals to place hands-free calls through any VoIP service with one easy step. In addition, Voyager 510-USB features multipoint technology to allow users to switch between multiple Bluetooth-enabled devices, including softphones and mobile phones, with the touch of a button.

"As communication needs become increasingly mobile, compatibility and flexibility across diverse networks and devices become critical," said Chuck Yort, vice president of Business Solutions at Plantronics. "The Voyager 510-USB will help make people's lives less complicated on the road by providing simple, one-step VoIP connectivity and a single headset for multiple communication devices."

Universal VoIP Compatibility

The Plantronics Voyager 510-USB is the first system that brings Bluetooth connectivity to enterprise-class softphones. The system integrates with enterprise softphone software from leading companies including Avaya Inc., Cisco Systems Inc., Nortel and Skype Ltd., among others, to offer call notification and remote call answering via the headsets. The Voyager 510-USB is also compatible with most popular consumer Internet telephony services, including AOL, MSN and Yahoo!.

An extension of Plantronics' VoIP product portfolio, the Voyager 510-USB includes the award-winning Voyager 510* headset and Plantronics' PersonoCall software to provide electronic answer-end control with major VoIP softphones. The system also comes with a convenient desktop charging stand, USB charging cable, three-foot USB extension cable and AC charger.

The Voyager 510 headset features include these:

Noise-canceling microphone and wind-reduction technology for brilliant sound in indoor and outdoor environments
Lightweight, foldable design for all-day wearing comfort and easy storage
One-touch call answer/end, last-number redial and voice-activated dialing with mobile phones
Boom swivels for use on either ear for optional wearing preference
Up to six hours of talk time and up to 100 hours of standby time
Freedom to roam up to 33 feet away from voice-enabled Bluetooth devices

Global VoIP adoption is growing rapidly as businesses aim to realize substantial cost savings and value-added services. Aberdeen Group Inc. research estimates that the average Fortune 500 company spends $116 million on telecommunications services each year.

In addition, IDC predicts that more than 44 million households in the U.S. will have VoIP subscriptions by 2010. With this broad growth in mind, Voyager 510-USB is designed for all environments in which mobile professionals work, whether in the office, on the go or at home.

Growing VoIP Product Portfolio

Plantronics offers the industry's most complete family of corded and cordless VoIP products for both business and consumer use. Widely recognized for their sound quality, reliability, simplicity and style, Plantronics' VoIP headsets are highlighted by the following:

CS50-USB: This premium wireless VoIP headset system for use in the office uses 900MHz technology to deliver crystal-clear conversations -- up to 200 feet away from a PC.
DA Series: A three-model series of USB-to-headset adapters that help businesses drive maximum value for their VoIP investment. The entry-, mid- and premium-level solutions fit into contact centers and enterprises worldwide.
Audio PC headsets: This new family of corded PC headsets offers great sound quality, comfort and various wearing styles.

Pricing and Availability

The Voyager 510-USB has a manufacturer suggested retail price of $199 (U.S.) and will be available in June 2006 through Plantronics' authorized resellers, major e-commerce sites and www.plantronics.com. The product will also be available in retail stores in early fall. More information about Voyager 510-USB can be found at www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/productName/Voyager510USB .

SOURCE Plantronics, Inc.