Cisco IP Telephones feature large XML (Extensible Markup Language) displays. The phones' XML capability offers the potential for targeted communication and exchange of information.
In addition to the standard options of accessing stock quotes and local weather reports, organizations can easily write custom XML applications. These applications could be very simple or very sophisticated, like the one a Connecticut electronics company uses in their manufacturing area to log lot numbers and critical production information. This is a perfect example of converged technology where a telephone is essentially functioning as a personal computer.
In the future, the lines will blur even more as devices like IP Telephones integrate color displays and built in video cameras. Other exciting XML developments on the horizon include voice activated prompts, emergency broadcasts, and even web conferencing!