Even before the hybrid work boom, organizations of all sizes had the challenge of supporting live meetings between people and teams in different locations, on different devices. But what was once a nice-to-have is now a necessity: video meetings that support participants on web browsers, native apps, and physical devices like desk and conference room phones, or across the spectrum from HTTP to SIP.

How SIP helps

SIP can be used for video conferencing, voice calls, chat, and texting. SIP for video conferencing is based on a communication protocol that allows SIP users to establish data connections that incorporate aspects of both HTTP and SMTP.  This makes SIP a useful option for unified communications solutions as it supports multiple connection types.

For this reason, many organizations have SIP devices in meeting rooms to connect teams to audio and video conference calls. SIP endpoints include video conferencing-enabled desk phones and other all-in-one communications software.

8x8 meetings include a SIP address as a means of connecting to meetings. This ensures that organizations with legacy SIP endpoints in meeting rooms can easily connect to 8x8 meetings. This helps extend the life of existing hardware and allows teams to meet together in person where possible. 

Connecting using a SIP address

When users receive calendar invites for 8x8 meetings, they are presented with the ways they can access the meeting. While many users will join the meeting via browser, there is an option to select a link to a list of dial-in numbers. This list of dial-in numbers includes a SIP address.

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From their SIP device, users will dial the SIP address provided to join the meeting. If the SIP device supports video conferencing, users will be able to share video meeting content and view on-screen content shared by other participants. 

8x8 empowers every team in the era of hybrid work

By supporting these endpoints, 8x8 meetings creates bridges between teams who are in branch or HQ office spaces with those teams who work remotely. Connecting teams with disparate work styles across a variety of locations helps your employees collaborate more effectively and work smarter. 

To learn more about how 8x8 can help transform your communications, check out our most recent innovations or read about our XCaaS platform here.