8×8 launches SME service

8×8, a provider of cloud-based voice, video, chat, contact centre and enterprise-class API solutions, has launched 8×8 Express in the UK – aimed at the UK’s 5 million microbusinesses.

The new solution offers a complete business phone system, enabling microbusinesses to set up a professional cloud communications system including dedicated business phone numbers, unlimited UK calls, auto-receptionist, voicemail, intelligent call routing, secure videoconferencing and team chat – all accessible from desktop and mobile applications.

“To remain competitive and thrive, organisations in the UK require consistent and connected communications tools that support the customer experience,” commented Samuel Wilson, Chief Customer Officer and Managing Director of EMEA. “The goal of 8×8 Express is to help eliminate complexity in procuring, setting up and managing a business phone system with no need for additional IT support. Offered at a competitive price, it is tailored to meet the needs of both small organisations and new businesses.”

8×8 Express includes the 8×8 Video Meetings solution, powered by Jitsi open-source technology, which offers team collaboration with HD video conferencing that allows instant screen sharing. Guests can join meetings via the 8×8 Video Meetings app on their smartphones or directly via a compatible browser from their laptop or computer, with no additional software to download.

The service is available as a 30-day free trial and charged at £7.99 per user per month thereafter (including unlimited call time and no long-term contracts).

Omnisperience’s View

This new service from 8×8 is benefitting from a very timely launch, as businesses settle into a new normal post COVID-19. Even before the COVID-19 crisis the microbusiness and nanobusiness sector was underserved by large B2B service providers. As the business market adjusts to the impact of COVID-19, it is this sector that’s set to grow exponentially and which is essential to economic recovery. 8×8’s solution is the right offering at the right time. Its challenge though is to educate its target market and grab mindshare. Other service providers may not have such an appropriate solution, but they do have brand recognition. If it can get its voice heard above all the noise, the scope for this type of solution is huge.

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