AT&T and Microsoft Corp. today announced a groundbreaking strategic alliance that is expected to revolutionize the development, deployment and delivery of next-generation Internet Protocol (IP)-based communications services.

The alliance leverages the far-reaching AT&T global IP network, which can be accessed from 149 countries, and Microsoft� Connected Services Framework, an integrated software solution that enables the rapid delivery of converged communications services across multiple networks and end-user devices. Using Connected Services Framework, AT&T will be able to dynamically create new network-based IP services and applications that can be deployed when and where they are needed.

In addition, the two companies committed to developing a broad array of network-enabled right-time communications services during the next five years that will focus on messaging, collaboration, media and business applications. These services will expand on AT&T�s existing IP services portfolio, including the company�s recently announced Dynamic Network ApplicationsSM (DNA) portfolio, and Microsoft�s set of hosted collaboration, communications and business applications, and will drive the development of other service bundles.

One of the first goals of the five-year road map will be an effort by Microsoft to Web services-enable AT&T�s voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) service so it can be delivered through the Microsoft Connected Services Framework to enterprise customers along with other communications services. This would give AT&T DNA end users click-to-dial capabilities within any Microsoft Office application.