Unified communications (UC) specialist ShoreTel (NASDAQ: SHOR) announced the debut of its latest software release, ShoreTel 13, which includes enhanced capabilities for video communications and instant messaging (IM). The software upgrade is included at no charge to all existing customers with a maintenance agreement.

Through ShoreTel Communicator, the call manager application within ShoreTel 13, users can participate in room-based videoconferences using industry-standard H.264 AVC technology, and enables users to communicate from their desktop or notebook from the office or on the road.

ShoreTel 13 also introduces instant message capability for ShoreTel Communicator with Personal Access as well as extended enterprise contact center agent capabilities based on services enabled from SIP trunking service providers.

The company is looking to differentiate itself from competitors such as Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO) and Avaya by focusing on the ease of implementation and support for open standards — ShoreTel was among the first UC companies to join the Unified Communications Interoperability Forum (UCIF), a nonprofit alliance between communications technology vendors. Major players including Hewlett-Packard (NYSE: HP), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) and Polycom (NASDAQ: PLCM) are among the founding members.

To sweeten the deal, enterprises can leverage standard-based IM servers such as ShoreTel XMPP IM server or extend existing investments in already installed technologies, such as Microsoft SIP-based Lync, for their ShoreTel Communicator.

In the ultra-competitive UC market, adaptability and ease of configuration is key. As video conferencing becomes part of the daily routine for many companies and IM continues to offer the benefits that come with instant access, organizations are looking to UC experts to provide a quick and simple way to connect their employees and keep business moving forward.