Packet8 released a free firmware upgrade for the Packet8 Tango Video Terminal Adapter that enables the device to function as both a videophone and digital photo frame. With the upgrade, the Packet8 Tango can now display up to 16 high resolution digital images on its built-in 5" LCD screen when the device is not in use for videoconferencing. To employ this feature, users simply connect their Tango to a computer via an Ethernet cable, enter the IP address for the device into a web browser and upload desired images in JPEG format. Images may be programmed to scroll at pre-set intervals when the Tango is in screen saver mode.

"Now, for substantially less than the cost of most dedicated digital photo frames, consumers can purchase a device that enables high quality two or three-way videoconferencing, low cost worldwide internet phone service and digital photo display," said 8x8 Director of Product Marketing Karen Hong. "Priced at just $99 after mail-in rebate, the Packet8 Tango is an amazing value that makes it easy and affordable for the average consumer to benefit from the features and cost saving of advanced VoIP and videophone technology."

In addition to the digital photo frame application, the new Tango firmware allows users to import contact information from Microsoft Outlook or any other CSV file format to facilitate speed dialing and phonebook management. Existing Packet8 Tango users may upgrade their device by following the simple instructions at http://www.packet8.net/support/installation_instructions.aspx#tango_videophone

The Packet8 Tango VTA is a one-of-a-kind broadband phone adapter that turns any regular analog phone into a state-of-the-art, full motion videophone. This portable, sleek-looking 8 1/2" x 5 1/2" x 1.38" free standing device incorporates a built-in, high resolution 5" LCD color display and 180 degree rotating CCD camera to deliver advanced full-motion video at up to 30 frames per second along with crisp, delay-free audio. The Packet8 Tango is fully SIP compliant and interoperates with 8x8's previous generation videophone, the Packet8 DV326 as well as its video soft phone, Packet8 Softalk.

The Packet8 Tango is currently available at http://www.packet8.net for $99.99 after $100 mail-in rebate or at CompUSA retail outlets nationwide. The accompanying Packet8 monthly phone service plan costs $24.99 per month and includes unlimited local and long distance voice calling to any phone in the U.S., Canada and eight additional countries, unlimited worldwide in-network voice and video calling to other Packet8 subscribers and all Packet8 advanced residential calling features.