February 2025 – UC Channel Update

by | Feb 25, 2025 | Latest News

In this update:

  • 3CX’s Strategic Direction Overview
  • Bluechip’s 3CX Monthly Webinar – Thursday 27th February
  • 3CX’s Latest Product News
  • 3CX Technical Guidance
  • Yealink product updates
  • Grandstream product updates
  • CommBox product updates
  • Jabra product updates
  • Fanvil product updates
  • Demo equipment
  • 3CX Technical Certifications – March dates
  • Case studies – stories sell products!
  • Join our LinkedIn UC community to see the news first

3CX’s Strategic Direction Overview

Earlier in February 2025, Nick Galea, the CEO of 3CX, released a blog around the strategic direction of 3CX. You can see the full blog here. Later this year, 3CX will reach its 20th anniversary, which is quite a milestone – when 3CX was first created, the goal was to create a product for medium to large businesses that were feature-rich but also cost-effective.

Within this overview, it’s noted that v20 was re-architected for now and the future, and they don’t anticipate any large changes in the next 3+ years. The platform is ready for future development – AI will be a big feature, and we’re already starting to see this in more recent releases. We’ve also seen more details of the much-anticipated improvements to reporting (see more info below in the product updates section).

As we know, with the rich feature set and ease with which 3CX can be set up and adopted, it’s been globally adopted by lots of small businesses. 3CX has articulated that their focus will remain on medium to large deployments of 25-1000 extensions or a 16-SC or higher license. With the recent price increases on 4th Feb Cyprus time (5th Feb NZ time), we saw the 4-SC licenses increase in cost as they are no longer being subsidised and the announcement that revenue from these small licenses will no longer count towards partner targets.

As a country full of SMBs, Megan is having and will continue to have strategic conversations with our partners about the way forward. The multi-tenant solution is brilliant for our market – starting from a Pro 16-SC license (new deployment from scratch) it is a way to group small customers into one instance and minimise your management time of the solution. 3CX has also said features will continue to evolve in this space.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Megan Twentyman, our BDM of Unified Communications, if you’d like to discuss how this fits with your business. E-mail: megan@bluechipit.co.nz or call via our main line 0800 733 233.

Bluechip’s 3CX Monthly Webinar – Thursday 27th February

Our Monthly webinar is coming up on Thursday 27th at 11am. This webinar will cover a lot of content including 3CX’s strategic direction and how that fits for NZ and the multi-tenant solution along with the February 2025 price increases. We’ll then review the product changes from update 4 going live in December through to update 5 which is at Release Candidate at time of writing and all of the updates on what’s coming with reporting. As usual we’ll wrap up the webinar with a Q&A section. Please join us by registering here. Click on the bright blue title on the webpage, enter your details and “subscribe” to the event. We look forward to you joining us.

3CX’s Latest Product News

While the end of December and January are quieter times of the year with us out on summer holidays, it’s full steam ahead in Europe. Below is a summary of all the changes of significance and links to the relevant information from 3CX that you need to be aware of.

Version 18 went end of life on 31st December 2024 and no longer has support available. For anyone that is still running v18, update 9b was released on 3rd Feb and needs to have been implemented prior to 24th Feb for SSL certificates to extend. It continues to be a priority to move customers from v18 to v20.

SSL Certificate update – to connect to the 3CX Activation Server after 24th February 2025, for version 18 update 9b is required and for version 20 update 3 or above is required. Please see the blog here for more information.

Update 4 went live 4th December 2024 – update 4 was where 3CX unveiled their own 3CX AI and we covered this in the Alpha and Beta’s last year. You can read the final release blog here along with those extras like the new Yealink portable WiFi phone AX83H having interop with 3CX v20 update 4! We’re still awaiting more info on the Enterprise transcription once the trial is completed.

In update 4, the AI transcription became only for Enterprise licenses including the voicemail transcription – 3CX acknowledged this and have released this blog stating that AI transcription for voicemail only will come back in the final release of update 5 for 8-SC or higher licenses.

Update 5 is progressing – we’re now at Release Candidate, but here’s the links and recap of each phase of the roll out:

  • Alpha Blog – the first look at update 5 introduces status sync between 3CX and MS Teams; voicemail transcription for Pro is back (NB: 8-SC or higher license required); receive call recording transcription via e-mail; queues and ring groups can have their own custom voicemail greetings; improvements to multi-tenant.
  • Beta Blog – in this beta we see the introduction of Google Workspace integration – very similar to the way M365 integration works. Transcription licensing – 8-SC or higher only. Pro users can only access voicemail transcription, Enterprise edition has full capabilities. Read the full blog for all the info.
  • Beta 2 Blog – addition of Snom and Fanvil DECT new products along with fixes and a note about Bridges needing to be on the same update and update 5 introduces key improvements for the bridge functionality.
  • Release Candidate Blog – we’re almost there with update 5 – the RC brings final fixes and improvements.

V20 Softphone app – beta blog introduces Poly Integration for headsets along with easily being able to schedule audio or video meetings from the app.

Call Reporting – I’d say this is the hottest topic that we get queries about. There have been some key announcements on what’s to come in 2025:

  • Reporting 2.0 – the roadmap – this will be the advanced reporting which will revolutionise analytics at 3CX. We’ve talked about what’s coming with integrations to tools like Grafana and Power BI, a lot more details are unveiled in this blog (linked in the heading). This will be for Enterprise customers only
  • Reporting for Pro users – changes to the “standard or included” reporting are coming soon. 3CX has acknowledged that some things from v18 are missing and they’re coming back along with four new reports.
    The latest update on “standard/included” reporting is here. It’s taking a bit longer than 3CX anticipated but good things are worth the wait. We now expect this in update 6.

Call Flow Scripts explained – one of the great features of 3CX v20 is the APIs that are being made via the API store. There have been many blogs explaining the call scripts over the past few weeks – here’s a wrap up with links to each:

Upgrading to v20 – Important reminders before upgrading to version 20 – if you do nothing else, please ensure that you read these two very important documents:

  • Upgrade from v18 to v20 Configuration Guide – this guide is kept up-to-date by 3CX and part of the Administration Manual.
  • Upgrade checklist & FAQ Blog – this was released in early January 2024 to cover all the important steps you must do before proceeding with an upgrade. Remember you’re moving from Debian 10 through to Debian 12 and there is no roll back from the upgrade. License keys move from being v18 to v20 keys as part of this process.

IMPORTANT – SET YOUR SYSTEM OWNER! We’ve had a few cases of customers locking themselves out during the upgrade process and new charges will be incurred if you need 3CX’s support teams help.

V18 is now EOL.

3CX Technical Guidance

As you are aware, our team is committed to bringing you the help you need to be successful with configuring 3CX. Akhila Vushke, UC Sales Engineer, has made a couple of fantastic videos focused on the 3CX Bridge Setup. Connecting two 3CX systems together so that a company with teams in different locations/time zones etc can use internal calling requires the right knowledge. Check out Akhila’s video guides below:

Part 1 – A deep dive into the 3CX bridge setup
Part 2 – A practical guide to completing your setup
If you’d like further assistance around this or any 3CX features, you can reach Akhila via ucsupport@bluechipit.co.nz.

Yealink product updates

Following on from the release of the popular BH70 Bluetooth Headset and the WH64 DECT Hybrid Headset in 2024, Yealink has kick-started 2025 with two further additions to their headset range.

February 2025 UC Channel Update

The new BH74 Bluetooth Headset features hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, Four-microphone Noise-cancelling Technology and Unparalleled Comfort to ensure clear communication and uninterrupted productivity throughout your day. First stocks of this have now hit NZ and both models have a USB-C/A dongle for convenience.

  • 491469 BH74 MS Teams Dual Headset with Charging Stand Black USB-C/A
  • 491458 BH74 MS Teams Dual Headset Black USB-C/A

The UH48 wired headset features the same Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, Four-Microphone Noise-cancelling Technology, Swift Plug & Play and Unparalleled Comfort as the BH74. This will elevate your teams productivity with all-day comfort as well. For convenience the unit features both USB-C/A connection in the one product. First stock is due in country in approx. 3 weeks so pre-orders are recommended to secure yours.

  • 491796 UH48 MS Teams Dual Headset Black USB-C/A

We also have a NFR offer – limit of 3 units per partner on each of these new headsets, reach us on uc@bluechipit.co.nz to secure yours!

Late in 2024, Yealink released their first portable WiFi phone – the AX83H. We’ve been testing this unit in house, and we are very impressed – it already has interop with 3CX so setting up on our internal PBX was a breeze. The unit features Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 with seamless 802.11k/v/r roaming, HD Voice and Smart Noise Filtering, wireless headsets connection via Bluetooth 5.0, 4 SIP accounts, 5-way conference, and a 2.4-inch 240 x 320 TFT colour screen. More stock is due into the country soon – you can pre-order via our SKU 491430.

February 2025 UC Channel Update

The requirement for meeting rooms to be fitted out is increasing and Yealink has a solution for all spaces. The Android meeting room range covers small to large spaces – we do have a couple of A20 ex-demo units for sale as this model has now gone EOL and is replaced by the A40, if you’d like information reach out to Megan to discuss.

Already in 2025, we’ve seen a real focus from businesses to fit out their spaces with the appropriate equipment – we are here to guide you with ensuring you suggest the right equipment for the space and your client’s budget. We also have partnered with installers who can help you with installation if you don’t have inhouse resources to do so. Reach us on uc@bluechipit.co.nz or give us a call via 0800 733 233. Below are some of the most popular kits.

February 2025 UC Channel Update

Yealink is expanding their Video Conferencing solutions and introducing Pro AV solutions (NB: restricted purchasing applies).  Akhila Vushke, UC Sales Engineer, wrote this blog looking into the ceiling microphones and speakers and tools available from Yealink when scoping a space.  It’s well worth a read and feel free to reach us on uc@bluechipit.co.nz to discuss further.

Grandstream Product Updates

Grandstream has unveiled their first Wi-Fi 7 access point. The new GWN7670 is a dual-band Wi-Fi 7 access point that allows small-to-medium businesses to build next-generation Wi-Fi networks with top-of-the-line speeds, capacity, stability, and efficiency. With support for advanced QoS, low-latency real-time applications, mesh networks, captive portals, Bluetooth Low Energy 5.3, and more, the GWN7670 is an ideal Wi-Fi access point for wireless network deployments with medium-to-high user density. This is the first of a series of units planned on the roadmap.

 

UC Channel Update

The new WP856 is a Wi-Fi Smart IP Phone with Integrated Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 and Built-in Scanner. The unit runs Android version 13 and is certified with Google Mobile Services. It includes integrated dual-band Wi-Fi 6 and has a built-in scanner for scanning 1D and 2D barcodes. It also supports near-field communication (NFC) to allow the device to exchange data with other NFC devices. It sports a 5.5 inch high-definition touch screen, provides extended talk-time of up to 20 hours and is IP65 rated.

The GDMS Cloud Management tool from Grandstream is extremely helpful in managing all of your UC and Network devices in one place. This free tool has brilliant features to allow technicians to work smarter – check out this overview blog from Akhila Vushke, our UC Sales Engineer, here.

CommBox product updates

As outlined earlier in the newsletter there is a great sales opportunity in the meeting room space and one core component alongside a video conferencing solution is a fantastic commercial display.

Why do clients need a commercial display? A non-commercial display has no warranty once installed in a business environment and a commercial display is designed to always be on. It’s also optimised to work with popular video conferencing platforms like Microsoft Teams Room, Zoom Room, etc.

CommBox have a range of commercial displays from basic displays to intuitive and then interactive touch displays like the newly launched S5. If you need large displays and LED – the range is expansive and has you covered.

UC Channel Update

If you’d like to know more about the CommBox family of products, reach out to us on uc@bluechipit.co.nz

Jabra product updates

February 2025 UC Channel Update

Jabra have you covered for all your headset requirements from wired; Bluetooth wireless; and DECT wireless options. They also have the fantastic Panacast 50 video conferencing solution available as various options.

In this recent blog our UC Sales Engineer, Akhila Vushke took a look at the new Jabra+ remote management tool. This tool is designed to manage all of your Jabra professional audio and video conferencing solutions in one platform. It’s well worth a read and if you’d like to know more contact us on uc@bluechipit.co.nz.

Fanvil product updates

The new Linkvil DB20-H from Fanvil, simplifies your business communication. If you have customers who do all their calls on their smartphone but would like the convenience of a handset, speakerphone and charger on their home or office desk (or both!), the Linkvil DB20-H all-in-one phone station is a great solution. Hands-free setup, wireless charging, and advanced noise-cancellation make it ideal for businesses of all sizes. Whether in corporate offices, call centres, or warehouses, it enhances productivity and ensures seamless PC and smartphone integration for efficient operations. Learn more about the unit and some of its features on our blog here.

UC Channel Update

If you’d like to know more around any of the Fanvil units, reach us on uc@bluechipit.co.nz – we have demo stock available for you to take for a test drive!

Demo equipment

Here at Bluechip Infotech New Zealand, we hold a demo pool of Yealink, Grandstream, Jabra and Fanvil products which are available to borrow. We have IP phones, DECT phones, headsets, WiFi Access Points, facility access and more available to borrow and test. It’s a great way to be able to test out units and see if they meet the needs of your clients. A great way to evaluate new offerings ahead of purchase. If you’d like to borrow anything, please reach out to Megan Twentyman our BDM – UC in the first instance.

3CX Technical Certifications – March dates are sold out, EOI for April and May

The 3CX Basic and Advanced certifications have been updated for version 20! 3CX have now made the new v20 exams available to everyone that holds the v18 certs. You’ll see the “Take the Basic Exam” option at the top of your page again.

Be sure to prepare by visiting the Academy landing page and the Basic and Advanced pages. There are links to all the relevant guides. The current exams are accessible from your Partner Portal and/or your own personal login to the portal. It is highly encouraged that all 3CX Partners have at least one staff member fully technical certified. The 3CX training preparation pages on their website are updated and you can access these at:

Place your name on the list for April and May dates and please e-mail uc@bluechipit.co.nz with full name, e-mail address, and position title. The spaces are limited, and we’ll let you know new dates for April and May in the coming days so you can advise if these will work for you and your team. Stay tuned, we’re committed to getting through training as quickly as possible for all of our NZ partners.

Case studies – stories sell products!

We value the opportunity to work with you to produce case studies on success stories with our UC brands. If you have a good story to share, please reach out to us on uc@bluechipit.co.nz and we can work with you. Case studies help sell the products to another customer. Grandstream have an incentive for GWN case studies but for case studies that we produce we’re happy to shout your team a pizza lunch. Get in touch so we can help you grow through sharing successes.

Join our LinkedIn UC community to see news first

Our “Bluechip UC Community” group has been created so our customers quickly get all the latest news. We post regularly and welcome new members to the group. Keep up to date with upcoming Bluechip Infotech New Zealand events, UC-related updates and any other general UC news. Join the LinkedIn group here.