The first, the Uniden WIN 1200 a 5.8GHz digital cordless phone supports both traditional landline and VoIP phone service.  VoIP service is handled by Microsoft’s Windows Live Messenger, with MCI Web Calling Service providing net-to-landline service.

"This alliance (with Microsoft) will unlock the world of VoIP communications to a broader demographic of users," said Blake Irving, corporate vice president of the MSN Communication Services and Member Platform group at Microsoft. "Rounding out software and services with great devices is a key pillar of Windows Live, and the Uniden WIN 1200 and Windows Live Messenger makes advanced voice technology feel familiar." The Uniden WIN 1200 has a list price of $99.99.

The Uniden UIP165P is a VoIP service provider Packet8 enabled 5.8GHz DSS cordless phone.  A key feature of the new phone is its ability to handle multiple VoIP phone numbers with distinctive rings and up to 10 handsets.  This would enable each member of a household or each employee of a small business to have their own phone number with a unique ringer.  Purchase of the phone also includes a free 30 day Packet8 trial.

This second phone is really the type of offering that can make VoIP service more attractive then traditional landline phones.  VoIP offers the ability to quickly add or delete phone lines on the fly – with different phone numbers from multiple area codes.  By contrast, with traditional phones adding or removing lines requires calls to the phone company, servicemen visiting the home or office site to connect wires, and it’s much more difficult to get phone numbers in different area codes.