8x8, a provider of business communications and cloud computing solutions, announced it significantly upgraded its contract with World Telecom Group (News - Alert) (WTG).

The upgraded agreement will enable 8x8 to offer 8x8 cloud-based Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and Unified Communications (News - Alert) (UC) services to businesses nationwide through its network of agent partners.

WTG, an 8x8 master agent partner, offers their agent and reseller partners an opportunity to expand their portfolios with 8x8's cloud-based VoIP, video, contact center and managed hosting solutions, including the 8x8 Virtual Office and Virtual Office Pro services, now in use by over 24,000 businesses.

“8x8 has made great strides over the years helping small businesses understand and benefit from the numerous advantages of cloud-based communications,” said Vince Bradley, president and CEO of WTG.

“We believe that 8x8's diversification into cutting-edge VoIP, video, contact center and cloud computing services will make a fantastic addition to our agents' portfolios,” Bradley added.

The enhanced agreement is a significant development for 8x8 as WTG has a diverse portfolio of telecommunications products and services including local, long-distance, data, integrated access, VoIP, wireless and videoconferencing solutions.

“This is a very exciting time in the IP communications industry, as awareness and adoption of cloud offerings like 8x8's SaaS PBX (News - Alert) are on the rise and we are seeing an overall level of enthusiasm we have not witnessed for many years,” said Don Trimble, vice president of channel sales at 8x8.

“We are very pleased to upgrade our partnership with an organization like WTG whose reputation in the telecom industry and commitment to its partners is second to none. We look forward to providing their agents and resellers with the solutions and tools that will enable them to capitalize on this phenomenal market opportunity,” Trimble (News - Alert) added.

According to a recent report, 8x8 announced that TMC (News - Alert), a global, integrated media company, has named 8x8 Virtual Office Pro as a recipient of the 2010 INTERNET TELEPHONY Product of the Year Award.