Microsoft last week unveiled a VoIP-enabled phone system software platform based on Windows XP Embedded. “Response Point,” currently in beta, supports both IP- and traditional analog-based telephony, targets small businesses, and is expected ship this year in production devices from three vendors.

Phone systems based on Response Point technology will include a base unit (such as Quanta’s Syspine shown at right) and multiple desktop phones (such as the Quanta model shown above), plus software.

According to Microsoft, Response Point implements a voice-activated user interface that, for example, allows users to reach anyone in their company directory or Outlook contact list simply by saying the name. Conversely, an “Automated Receptionist” answers incoming calls and routes them according to the caller’s voice instructions, the company adds.

Microsoft says the overall system is easy to set up and maintain, and provides a user-friendly management console for accomplishing tasks such as configuring voicemail, defining call-handling preferences, and creating call distribution lists.

In addition to Quanta Computer, D-Link and Uniden are also currently developing systems based on Response Point technology. All three expect to ship their first Response Point products this year.

In an interview with WindowsForDevices.com, Microsoft product manager Jeff Smith described Response Point as a “go-to-market” software stack based on Windows XP Embedded, similar to how Windows Mobile is a go-to-market variant of Windows CE. And, like Windows Mobile, Response Point will only be marketed directly to major device OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) and ODMs (original design manufacturers).

Microsoft played a role in developing reference architecture, but is not controlling the hardware design. Each OEM is building its own variation based on the Response Point reference design, explained Smith. Response Point is currently beta testing and available on a very limited basis. Beta 2 is now working, and should be released in early April, he added.

In addition to Response Point, Microsoft provides an extensible, software-based VoIP foundation through Office Communications Server 2007 and Office Communicator 2007. The company says it will distribute public beta versions of Communications Server 2007 and Communicator 2007 “later this month.”

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