Yealink IP Media Phone: Laptop or video phone?

Darius Chang | Jun 18, 2008

Despite the fact that VoIP has become a popular tool for long-distance communications, VoIP phones have not gained much traction. Perhaps the cost is simply too high for a single-function device as most PCs provide the same voice quality for free.

The Yealink IP Media Phone, however, is more than simply a VoIP device. In fact, the Chinese company tries to shove everything but the kitchen sink into the sleek clamshell phone, which is available in a choice of four colors (black, red, blue and green). Besides being able to handle up to six conventional landlines, the device sports a 7-inch screen that does more than show your friend's hairy facade during video-conferencing.

The IP Media Phone can play H.264, H.263 and MPEG-4 videos, making it compatible with IPTV as well as Video-on-Demand services. Possible a first for a handset, there is an integrated keyboard which works with the built-in Web browser for surfing, instant messaging, SMS and email. The display also doubles as a digital photo frame that can be programmed to show a slideshow while MP3 music files play in the background.

No pricing details are available at this time, but if "all-in-one" can be used to describe a teleconferencing device, then the Yealink IP Media phone fits the bill.

Filed under: PC & Peripherals
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