NewSteps' Calling Service Node Bridges TDM and IP Applications

NewStep Networks, a start-up based in Ottawa, introduced an IP service control solution that enables service providers to integrate telephony services with enterprise applications and deliver them across both TDM and IP networks. NewStep said its "Calling Service Node" extends IP applications across public and private network environments. It connects to legacy and next-generation signaling systems via SS7 or SIP signalling protocols, creating a service control layer between IP-based applications and the underlying signaling systems. This service...

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MCI Closes the Sale of Embratel's Control Stake to TELMEX

Telefonos de Mexico (TELMEX) completed its acquisition of MCI's equity stake in Brazilian carrier Embratel. TELMEX paid an aggregate of US$400 million cash for MCI's 19.26% economic interest and 51.79% voting interest in Embratel. Embratel's network has countrywide coverage with 28,868 km of fiber routes. http://www.mci.comhttp://www.embratel.net....

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European Commission Urges More Spectrum for New Wireless Applications

The European Commission issued a report calling on EU member nations to expand their efforts to free up parts of the radio spectrum for innovative wireless technologies. The report looks at measures taken under the new telecoms package (in particular the Radio spectrum Decision) to allocate the radio spectrum more efficiently, to expand the single market for innovative new radio-based technologies. http://europa.eu....

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Verizon Proposes Higher Local Telephone Rates in WA

Verizon filed a rate design proposal with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) for a substantial increase in the basic monthly rate the company charges for telephone service. Under the proposal, Verizon's basic monthly rate in the state would increase by $9.80 - from $13 to $22.80 for residential customers and from $29.70 to $39.50 for business customers. Verizon estimates that these and other proposed changes would generate about $109.8 million in revenue. It noted that the filing represents its first general rate...

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Skype Signs 4 Carrier Agreements to Provide Global Call Termination

Skype Technologies announced agreements with COLT, iBasis, Level 3, and Teleglobe to provide call termination services worldwide. The agreements are in place in preparation for SkypeOut, a soon-to-be-launched pre-pay service that allows people to call any landline or mobile number in the world from anywhere in the world using the Skype software. Terms of the agreements were not disclosed. Skype reports more than 7 million users in over 170 countries for its free VoIP service since its Internet telephony software was launched last year. The company...

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Wave7 Optics Announces $6M in Additional Funding

Wave7 Optics, a start-up based in Alpharetta, Georgia, announced an additional $6M in funding for its active and passive Ethernet- and IP-based FTTP network equipment, Total venture capital investment in the company is now $68.5 million. The additional funding comes on a pro-rata basis from the company's six current investors: Advanced Technology Partners, Armada Venture Partners, Lucent Venture Partners, Mellon Ventures, Morgenthaler Ventures and Oak Investment Partners. Wave7 said it now has over 30 network operator customers around the world....

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