Unisys Corp has been demonstrating a range of applications on its Network Application Architecture telephone services software (CI No 1,181). Unisys will offer telephone companies services such as facsimile store-and-forward; selective call screening, allowing customers to block selected incoming calls; and cable TV pay-per-view so that customers can order and pay for television shows using voice menus over the telephone. The software, for Unisys A-series mainframes, enables database applications to be developed using the Linc II applications generation language. Unisys plans to market it in a number of ways: PABX manufacturers will be offered software licences to enable them develop own their applications; Unisys will look for joint ventures with telephone companies; and initial deals will probably involve Unisys supplying regional Bell operating companies, which will then act as resellers. Network Application Architecture runs on digital exchanges from most major manufacturers, including Northern Telecom Inc, AT&T Co and Siemens AG. Organisations are able to make savings by transferring the management of calls from the actual PABX to an A-series mainframe. Unisys expects first applications before the end of the year, but has no plans yet for a European launch of the product.
