[November 4, 2004]

8x8, Cognigen and CompUSA Ink Retail Deal

BY JOHANNE TORRES

8x8 Inc. (news - alert), the Packet8 broadband (define - news - alert) voice over internet protocol (VoIP - define - news - alert) and videophone communications service provider, announced it signed an agreement with Cognigen Networks, Inc., an Internet-enabled marketer of communication services. The new deal will allow Cognigen and its more than 150,000 independent agents to offer the Packet8 VoIP DTA adapter and DV326 broadband VideoPhone.

"8x8 has demonstrated depth and breadth in its Packet8 VoIP offerings with innovative choices for both residential and business users," said Tom Pleas, business development manager for Cognigen Networks. "These technologically advanced products and services represent what we believe are the best the industry has to offer in terms of quality and value. Our agents proudly embrace the opportunity to recommend the highly regarded Packet8 solution to our customers."

In related news, Santa Clara, CA-based 8x8 also announced it signed a retail agreement with CompUSA. According to the agreement, the retailer will carry the Packet8 VoIP Adapter and broadband consumer VideoPhone in each of its 226 nationwide locations. 8x8 first introduced its new Packet8 DV326 VideoPhone five months ago. This agreement follows the completion of a successful six week in-store test program conducted at 20 CompUSA locations.

"With the sell-through results Packet8 achieved during this initial test, it is apparent that consumer demand for VoIP telephony and support for the Packet8 service clearly exists," said Doug Lane, buyer for CompUSA. "We are happy to continue offering Packet8's highly regarded voice and video solutions and look forward to participating in the growing VoIP market."

A sample video plan from 8x8 would include a plug-and-play device with no need for monitor or TV, keyboard, mouse, microphone, speakers or computer; regular dialing to other Packet8 VideoPhone for video calling or any regular telephone for traditional audio-only call; high quality CCD camera; auto-focus range: 2” to infinity; up to 30 frames per second video quality; a 5” high-quality LCD screen; and an audio/video output for larger, external screen display.

The video phone can be used by both residential and business customers. Using the company’s Packet8 broadband phone service, Packet8 VideoPhone subscribers receive unlimited video calling and regular calling in the U.S. and Canada for a lower monthly flat rate as well as unlimited worldwide video and audio-only calling to other Packet8 subscribers.