As the Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC) kicks off this week in Los Angeles, nine hardware manufacturers will introduce a new generation of phones designed to work with Microsoft's Office Communications Server and Office Communicator.

Microsoft provided the specifications for the phones, which link up with e-mail, instant messaging, real-time presence, and conferencing. The company is aiming to bring voice communications back into a business world that has been shifting toward written chats and e-mail.

"Today's office phone is marooned on an island, separate from the rest of the communications tools that information workers rely on to do their jobs," remarked Jeff Raikes, president of the Microsoft Business Division.

ASUSTek, GN, LG-Nortel, NEC, Plantronics, Polycom, SAMSUNG, Tatung and ViTELiX are among the companies that will be building the VoIP phones and other devices that include wireless headsets and even LCD monitors and laptops. The devices will be designed to work immediately out of the box with Microsoft's communications software.

Microsoft says it is using an open architecture and providing the APIs for manufacturers, noting that the devices are almost ready to be certified by the company. Pricing was not disclosed, but Microsoft claims that by providing choice, businesses will save on telephony costs.

WinHEC officially kicks off Monday evening, and BetaNews will be covering the week-long show live from the Los Angeles Convention Center. Check back throughout the week for further WinHEC coverage.