Linksys is a leading manufacturer of voice over IP phones. A division of Cisco Systems, Linksys is known for quality phones at a good price. Linksys has a diverse selection of IP phones from the entry level phone SPA921 to the executive level SPA962. Linksys IP phones have a build and appearance similar to the Cisco 7900 series IP phones. Linksys IP phones are known for being
compatible with many service providers and open communication platforms such as Asterisk Open Source IP PBX.
On April 26, 2005 Cisco Systems announced plans to acquire Sipura Technology, Inc a privately held voice over IP techonology company. The acquisition was the was placed under control of Cisco's Linksys division, the leading provider of wireless and networking hardware for home, Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) and small business environments. Sipura Technology is widely known as a leader in consumer voice over internet protocol technology and is a key technology provider for Linksys' current line of VoIP networking devices. In addition to Sipura's valuable technology and customer relationships, their experienced team with extensive VoIP expertise will help build a foundation for Linksys' internal research and development capabilities in voice, video and other markets.
Under the terms of the agreement, Cisco will pay approximately $68 million in cash and options for Sipura. The acquisition is subject to various standard closing conditions, including applicable regulatory approvals, and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of Cisco's fiscal year 2005 ending July 30, 2005.
"VoIP is a strategic segment for innovation and growth for Cisco and Linksys. The acquisition of Sipura will augment Linksys' leading position in the rapidly growing VoIP market and is an example of Linksys' strategy to increase internal R&D capabilities in specific product categories," says Charles Giancarlo, Cisco CTO and Cisco-Linksys president. "Adding Sipura's technology reinforces our commitment to developing products in the consumer voice space."
