Yealink IP Media Phone: Laptop or video phone?
The Chinese company tries to shove everything but the kitchen sink into the sleek device.
Despite the fact that VoIP has become a popular tool for long-distance communications, its 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 just 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 phone 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. Possibly a first for a handset, there is an integrated keyboard that works with the built-in Web browser for surfing, instant messaging, SMS, and e-mail. The display also doubles as a digital photo frame that can be programmed to show a slide show 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. (Get more CommunicAsia 2008 coverage here.)
(Source: Crave Asia)