http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/11-09-2004/0002399969&EDATE=
Packet8 Service Provider 8x8, Inc. Issues Statement on FCC VoIP Ruling
http://www.8x8.com
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Nov. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- 8x8, Inc.
(Nasdaq: EGHT), the Packet8 broadband voice over internet protocol
(VoIP) and videophone communications service provider, issued the
following statement regarding today's Federal Communications
Commission decision that VoIP services like Packet8 are interstate in
nature, thereby preempting efforts by state and local authorities from
regulating such services.
Bryan R. Martin, Chairman and CEO of 8x8, Inc., stated: "The FCC made
a historic decision today for the future of Internet-based telephony
services like Packet8. By declaring that these services are
interstate by their very nature, and asserting federal jurisdiction
over how such services are regulated, the FCC has taken a decisive
step towards ensuring that innovative new IP-based applications,
services and choices will be available to all consumers."
8x8 has been lobbying the FCC and other federal officials since
September 2003, when it began receiving letters from several state
regulatory agencies asserting jurisdiction over the Packet8 voice and
video telephony service.
Today's decision from the FCC enables VoIP service providers like 8x8
to avoid negotiating rates, rules and services with separate and
individual state governments and continue to offer new,
competitively-priced Internet phone services to residential and
business broadband subscribers.
About 8x8, Inc.
VoIP (voice over internet protocol) service provider 8x8, Inc. offers
internet-based telephony solutions (http://www.packet8.net) for
individual residential and business users as well as small to medium
sized business organizations. In addition to regular Packet8 VoIP
service plans, priced as low as $19.95 per month for unlimited anytime
calling to the U.S. and Canada, 8x8 now offers the Packet8 DV 326
VideoPhone, the industry's first stand alone broadband consumer
videophone. Packet8 Virtual Office, 8x8's VoIP system for small to
medium sized businesses, is a hosted PBX solution comprised of
powerful business class features. For additional company information,
visit 8x8's web site at http://www.8x8.com.
NOTE: 8x8, the 8x8 logo, Packet8, the Packet8 logo and Packet8 Virtual
Office are trademarks of 8x8, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of
their respective owners.
SOURCE 8x8, Inc.
Web Site: http://www.8x8.com
Lisa Minter (lisa_minter2001@yahoo.com)