In this update:
- Upcoming Events: Grandstream in person Auckland event & 3CX Monthly Webinar
- 3CX’s Latest Product News
IMPORTANT: 3CX Licensing Policy Changes
Yealink product updates
- Grandstream News
- CommBox product updates
- Fanvil product updates
- Jabra product updates
- Demo equipment
- 3CX Technical Certifications – August bookings now available
- Case studies – stories sell products!
- Join our LinkedIn UC community to see the news first
Grandstream Auckland Event – Tuesday 3rd June 4.30pm
We are thrilled to invite you to our in-person Grandstream event on Tuesday, 3rd June, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM at Bluechip IT, Ellerslie office. This is a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from Ben Miall the Director of Sales Oceania for Grandstream. You’ll be able to connect with the Bluechip Infotech NZ team and enjoy some beers and pizzas. We’ll explore the Grandstream Networking Portfolio & Cloud Management, with a focus on the roadmap and new products. You’ll get an exclusive sneak peek at products before their official release.
Don’t delay – register today at this link and we’ll see you there.
3CX Latest Product News
Join Megan Twentyman, BDM Unified Communications, and Akhila Vushke, UC Sales Engineer on Friday 30th May at 11.30am to review the latest 3CX news including Update 6 news and recent licensing policy changes. Update 6 is focused on the new reporting landscape. We’ll keep this to our bite size format and wrap the session with a Q&A section. We look forward to you joining us for the session. Register here by clicking on the webinar title (in dark blue) and subscribing to the session.
3CX Latest Product News
Last month we got the first look at the new reporting from 3CX which has been the most anticipated feature of v20. This month 3CX has delivered two release candidates ready for your testing and we’re expecting a go live very soon. Below is a recap on what update 6 is delivering for v20 customers.
Update 6 development progress and new CDR (Call Data Record) tables explained – below are the links to each of the blog releases along the development of update 6 which is focused on the new reporting.
- Release Candidate 1 and Release Candidate 2 – both RC versions include improvements and fixes based on the testing process. See each of the blogs for the details along with the changelog links. The wait is coming to an end for a whole new generation of reporting.
- Alpha Blog – the first look at update 6 introduces a rewritten CDR mechanism and 4 new standard reports. The new reports are focused on inbound calls; outbound calls; user activity; and call distribution. Another key area is around more granular information. Other enhancements in the update 6 Alpha include an ability to switch to multi-tenant from a normal installation; recordings filter; remote access for troubleshooting; improvements to the M365 and Google integrations; and more. Please review the full blog for the key detail and explanations from 3CX.
- CDR Deep Dive Blog – in this blog, the 3CX team deep dive into why they have spent significant time redeveloping the Call Data Records (CDR) to enable much more accurate and comprehensive reporting. The team break this down in great detail and we highly recommend you review. By rebuilding the CDR table 3CX is again future proofing their solution.
- Beta Blog – the update 6 Beta delivers a major step forward in call reporting from 3CX. You can now sync 3CX with Google BigQuery and leverage Grafana for all kinds of reporting, dashboarding and visualisation capabilities. The key that was announced sometime ago and is now in Beta is the ability to be able to make your own reports. This reporting is available for customers with an 8-SC Pro license or higher. Links within the beta to download the setup guide and Grafana templates.
V20 Windows Softphone 5.1 BETA– the development of the new v20 Windows Softphone app continues to move forward with more enhancements. You or your customers can access the Softphone Beta by visiting the MS Store (linked from Apps in your WebClient) and search 3CX Beta. Do remember it is a Beta edition – Megan has been running on the Beta’s for several months now and taking advantage of the new additions. This Beta introduces a version number for the Softphone and also key enhancements for Receptionist roles to set call forwarding; read and reply via chat while on a call (great for us that like to multi-task!); provision your 3CX mobile apps from the Softphone QR code; focus on incoming calls option; and much more. Check it out at this link.
3CX iOS App 5.1 Beta (Build 31)
3CX has released the next Beta for the iOS App – you’ll note that they are now using the same naming conventions with versioning as the Windows Softphone. This update includes support for the iOS Limited Access for Contacts option which has been requested by the iOS community. You can check it out now by joining TestFlight – links at the bottom of the blog which is found here.
3CX Android App 5.1 Beta (Build 36)
3CX has released the latest Beta for the Android App. You’ll note they’ve adopted the same versioning as the Windows Softphone and iOS App for easier clarity in the future. This update expands on the “Edit before call” feature allowing users to edit an external number directly from their Recents tab. Check out the full blog here.
Upgrading to v20:
Important reminders before upgrading to version 20 – if you do nothing else, please ensure that you read these two very important documents:
- Upgrade from v18 to v20 Configuration Guide – this guide is kept up-to-date by 3CX and part of the Administration Manual.
- Upgrade checklist & FAQ Blog – this was released in early January 2024 to cover all the important steps you must do before proceeding with an upgrade. Remember you’re moving from Debian 10 through to Debian 12 and there is no roll back from the upgrade. License keys move from being v18 to v20 keys as part of this process.
IMPORTANT – SET YOUR SYSTEM OWNER! We’ve had a few cases of customers locking themselves out during the upgrade process and new charges will be incurred if you need 3CX’s support teams help.
IMPORTANT: 3CX Licensing Policy Changes
On the 29th April 2025 3CX announced changes to their licensing policies in line with their strategic direction – we shared these via a special newsletter on the 2nd May as 3CX had not yet sent the information to the channel, the channel update from 3CX came out the next morning along with a blog found here. There are some key changes that you need to be aware of and alter your processes to not encounter issues. There have been further refinements to these changes effective 22nd May, which we’ve added to the below:
Trial Licenses:
- Going forward, all new trial licenses will be provisioned as 8 Simultaneous Call (SC) PRO editions
- The validity period for all trial licenses will now be 30 days
- BCITNZ: Note that the trial period has been reduced from 60 days to 30 days
Proof of Concept (POC) Licenses:
- New Proof of Concept (POC) licenses for 16 Simultaneous Calls (SC) and above will also have a validity period of 30 days.
- BCITNZ: In line with the trial period reduction from 60 days to 30 days, the POC has also been reduced. POC is only available for projects 16-SC or larger.
3CX Hosting for 4-SC Licenses:
- The provisioning of new 4SC licenses for 3CX Hosting is now blocked and no longer available.
- Renewals for existing 4SC 3CX Hosting licenses will continue to be available. However, once a 4SC hosting license expires, it cannot be renewed at 4-SC.
- BCITNZ: At this time, you are still able to purchase 4-SC licenses as new or renewal. It is the Hosted by 3CX for 4-SC new that is no longer available. Also, if you have a 4-SC license with hosting and don’t renew before expiry, it will no longer be an option to renew the hosting service – to restore your Hosted by 3CX you’d need to upgrade to an 8-SC license.
License Replacements:
- It is possible to replace Trial and POC licenses with commercial licenses.
- Commercial-to-commercial license replacements are not permitted. This measure is in place to better track new projects involving 16SC or larger licenses.
- BCITNZ:
- For Trial or POC licenses, our recommendation is to upgrade them to live keys vs using the replacement process. Let our admin@bluechipit.co.nz team know when ordering that you’re upgrading a trial license.
- The commercial-to-commercial license replacements (replace key in the Admin Console) are no longer permitted and an error will display. We’re aware partners have used this for downgrades in the past and this will no longer work.
Downgrades (updated 22/05/2025):
- The only downgrades allowed are from larger licenses down to the minimum of 16-SC.
- Downgrades below 16-SC are not permitted.
- If “Hosted by 3CX” service is in use – no downgrades are permitted.
- BCITNZ:
- A note on downgrading the Simultaneous Call count – this request is direct to 3CX via their Contact Us form. Only downgrades to 16-SC are accepted. You cannot downgrade a larger license lower than a 16-SC which is in line with 3CX’s strategic direction
- If needing to downgrade below 16-SC the only option would be to purchase a new license and do a complete new installation.
Support Tickets:
- Only the license owner and the Partner to whom the license is officially assigned are authorised to open technical support tickets for a specific license key.
- BCITNZ: Bluechip Infotech NZ will continue to offer free first-level support via our ticketing system – ucsupport@bluechipit.co.nz. However, if an issue requires a ticket to be logged to 3CX support, then the registered partner or the license owner (as in the person/e-mail within the Admin Console) are the only ones able to log a ticket. For partners with ticket limits or paid support, this is directly with 3CX and not via us.
Yealink Product News
The requirement for meeting rooms to be fitted continues to accelerate and Yealink has a solution for all spaces. The next generation MeetingBoard Pro has landed in NZ with three sizes in this second-generation solution – 65”, 75”, and 86”. We’re working on having our new one installed to our Ellerslie office in the coming month and will be ready to showcase it! The new design is sleeker and has an upgrade across the board (love that pun!). Many customers are enjoying the first generation, but the second-generation takes a step up – here’s a few key highlights:
- Adding in a 75” option – 3 sizes, 65”, 75”, and 86”.
- Clearer display – 350nit/8% haze becomes 400nit/25% haze.
- Computing power increases by a whopping 164%!
- Camera clarity – we jump from a 8MP with option 6x or 12x PTZ to 3 50MP triple camera system and even the optional 12X Pro PTZ.
- Optimized speakers – hearing is clearer than ever!
- Slimmer/sleek design – the bezels have shrunk, and it’s lost 20% in weight!
- Choose your mount – purchase a trolley stand or wall mount, the choice is yours.
If you haven’t yet checked out the A40 Android MeetingBar designed for small to medium rooms, we have one of our rooms equipped and it’s the fastest moving unit at present. Akhila took the opportunity to write a blog about the unit and our own meeting room upgrade in a quick video – check it out here (video is linked from the blog).
We also have a deal registration promotion for both Android and Windows Meeting Room equipment – we do the registering of the deal for you and then a couple of months after you win the deal, you’ll get some vouchers to share with your customer!
We also have a deal registration promotion for both Android and Windows Meeting Room equipment – we do the registering of the deal for you and then a couple of months after you win the deal, you’ll get some vouchers to share with your customer!
Headset news: Yealink continues to deliver top-quality headset solutions – a couple of months back we featured the announcement of the new BH74 Bluetooth and UH48 USB Wired headset that both feature ANC (Active Noise Cancellation). The first stocks of the BH74 have hit NZ and the UH48 landed over the weekend as well! Akhila has tested out the first BH74 we got our hands on, and written a comprehensive overview in the blog you’ll find here. She’s taken a deep dive into each of the features and why they matter for your customers headset experience.
Having a fit for purpose headset is essential in the hybrid work and open-plan office spaces we encounter on a daily basis.
We’re excited about the recent launch of the new WH68 DECT Hybrid Headset. For those familiar with the very popular WH64, this is the next step-up featuring Hybrid ANC four-mic noise cancellation. The first limited stock is due in NZ this week with more to follow.
Grandstream news
Earlier in the newsletter you’ll have seen our upcoming Auckland Event focused on the Networking Range of Grandstream’s vast product portfolio. We look forward to seeing many of you in person on Tuesday 3rd June from 4.30pm.
Last month, Grandstream launched their largest reseller reward promotion ever. In September 2025, Grandstream will host their Global Partner Conference in Bali. Partners reaching purchasing thresholds from 1st April to 31st July 2025 will win significant prizes to help with the cost of attending this event. Check out the full details below and ensure to pick Bluechip Infotech NZ as your preferred Grandstream Distributor!
The first of Grandstream’s WiFi 7 Access Points the GWN7670 was unveiled last month and our first stocks came in and flew out the door. Our second shipment is being snapped up quickly, and we have more stock arriving soon. This month, Grandstream has released their second WiFi 7 Indoor Access Point which is the GWN7670WM In-Wall option.
More announcements will follow – attend our Auckland Event for the latest roadmap information directly from the Grandstream team. Grandstream has an excellent short video introduction found on YouTube here.
CommBox product updates
CommBox’s Commercial Displays are well known in the ANZ market. Over the past few weeks, CommBox held a series of webinars introducing the S5 Interactive Display. This month, we’re spotlighting the Intelligent Display which is powered by CommBox OS Android 11. This stunning display has the option of being horizontal or vertical and there is a great Karter Twist Media Cart available for the 43” and 55” models (as per images) to be able to alter the aspect as you wish by simply twisting the display!
If you’d like to know more about any of the CommBox family of products, reach out to us on uc@bluechipit.co.nz.
Fanvil product updates
Fanvil has a vast array of business SIP phones that meet many different customer requirements. For our 3CX partners many of the units can also act as a router phone (SBC onboard) option. There are limits of how many phones can connect via the various models, but these give a great option for customers with a Cloud hosted instance of 3CX. Last month we featured the V62 Pro unit with the Bluetooth wireless handset. Below are some of the most popular XU and V series units at present.
Jabra product updates
Jabra have you covered for all your headset requirements from wired; Bluetooth wireless; and DECT wireless options. They also have the fantastic video conferencing solutions available.
The Evolve2 range includes many popular models our customers enjoy. The Evolve2 40 SE UC Stereo headset (USB Wired) and the Evolve2 55 UC Stereo (Bluetooth wireless) are two of the most popular.
If you’d like to know more about it or any of the Jabra offerings contact our team on uc@bluechipit.co.nz.
Demo equipment
3CX Technical Certifications – August Bookings now open!
The 3CX Basic and Advanced certifications have been updated for version 20! 3CX have now made the new v20 exams available to everyone that holds the v18 certs. You’ll see the “Take the Basic Exam” option at the top of your page again.
Be sure to prepare by visiting the Academy landing page and the Basic and Advanced pages. There are links to all the relevant guides. The current exams are accessible from your Partner Portal and/or your own personal login to the portal (create a login at this link and you can link it back to the Company Partner Portal via the “Company Users” menu). It is a requirement of the 3CX Partner Program that all 3CX Partners have at least one staff member fully technical certified – it’s recommended to have two.
The 3CX training preparation pages on their website are updated and you can access these at:
Our next training is coming up in August and will be delivered online. The dates are:
- Wednesday 13th August 9am to 4.30pm – 3CX Basic Certification Training and Exam – online
- Thursday 14th August 9am to 4.30pm – 3CX Advanced Certification Training and Exam – online
Case studies – stories sell products!
Join our LinkedIn UC community to see news first
