MediaRing Launches VoizMail 3.0 for Microsoft Outlook and Outlook Express; Internet Users Can Send, Listen and Reply to Voice Mail Messages Using Popular E-mail Programs

Business Wire, Sept 7, 2000

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 7, 2000

MediaRing, the worldwide leader in Internet Voice Services, today announced the availability of MediaRing VoizMail 3.0 for PC users, which is designed for and integrates into Microsoft Outlook and Outlook Express. VoizMail 3.0 allows users to send voice messages directly from their computer desktop or Outlook e-mail program. MediaRing expects to release a version for business users by the end of this year.

VoizMail 3.0 is a fully integrated service using a thin client implementation that is quick and easy to install from the MediaRing Web site, www.mediaring.com. VoizMail 3.0 incorporates streaming technology that launches the voice message immediately upon opening the e-mail by clicking on the link. MediaRing hosts all of the VoizMail messages through its centralized, secure server infrastructure and streams the message to its recipient immediately upon request. There is no file attachment.

Sending VoizMail Messages

The fun of sending voice messages begins immediately after the user installs VoizMail 3.0. The installation process puts a VoizMail icon on the computer's desktop, as well as on the toolbar within Microsoft Outlook or Outlook Express. This fully integrated capability provides the user with a simple, one-click process for sending a voice message, without accessing a Web site or exiting the e-mail application. One click launches the recorder to allow the user to create their personal voice message and send it on its way. Users can also click on their desktop icon to launch VoizMail.

Responding to VoizMail Messages

When an e-mail recipient receives a message, they can immediately reply by clicking on the button within the e-mail message. By clicking the button the recipient launches the VoizMail recorder, which allows them to send their own voice reply. There is no need for the recipient to install any software to send a reply.

"Our VoizMail service for Microsoft Outlook permits users to communicate with voice rather than text from one of the most popular e-mail programs in the world. At the end of 1999, Microsoft claimed an installed base of more than 45 million seats(1)," said Ede Phang Ng, MediaRing CEO. "By fully integrating VoizMail into Microsoft Outlook, users can express emotion and communicate more quickly, all with a click of a button."

Minimum System Requirements

The following system requirements are necessary to use VoizMail 3.0 for Outlook, many of which are pre-installed from computer manufacturers. VoizMail for Outlook is immediately available for all those with the following system features:

-- Windows 95 or higher;

-- Microsoft Outlook 98 or 2000, or Microsoft Outlook Express 4.0 or higher;

-- Netscape Navigator 4.5 or Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 and above; and

-- A full or half duplex sound card, and a microphone and speakers, or headset.

About MediaRing

MediaRing.com Ltd. is the global leader in Internet Voice Services, offering voice-enabled solutions that enhance commerce and communication. Through innovative voice technologies, MediaRing.com helps businesses add richness and impact that advance communication and accelerate results. In 1999, the company completed its listing on the Singapore Exchange Limited and has grown its registered user base to more than six million across 144 countries. MediaRing.com is headquartered in Singapore, with offices in Hong Kong; London; New York; San Jose, Calif.; Taipei, Taiwan; Tokyo; and Beijing and Shanghai, China.

(1) Source -- Year-end 1999 Mailbox Report, March 7, 2000, Messaging Online(TM), www.messagingonline.com