UK fixed-line incumbent BT is to trial a mobile PBX service at a number of its UK-based and multinational customers as part its Unified Communications offering. The service, offered by BT’s Global Services division, allows companies to replace their IP desk phones with mobile phones, by using software to replicate the functionality of existing PBX systems. BT has partnered with London-based software company OnRelay to deliver the service. OnRelay’s so-called MBX (mobile PBX) software claims to offer a feature-rich managed FMC service that works with any public mobile network.

“The customer trials of OnRelay’s cellular FMC solution reflect BT’s ongoing commitment to addressing the demand for global fixed mobile convergence technologies, recognising that one size doesn’t fit all” said Malcolm Pilcher, head of voice CPE & FMC at BT Global Services. “We see this demand accelerating as our customers look to maximise their existing infrastructure, improve employee productivity and continue their drive to manage and control costs.” Following completion of the trials, it is expected that the solution will become part of BT’s ‘Corporate Fusion’ portfolio of enterprise products.