We’re thrilled to share exciting updates with you! Tomorrow marks the launch of Update 8 Alpha, introducing groundbreaking AI features that will enhance your communication experience with 3CX. Additionally, we’ll clarify our extension fair usage policy, ensuring you have all the necessary information to make the most of our offerings.
Revolutionary Onboard Transcription
With the introduction of our new onboard transcription feature, you can now transcribe calls directly on your network without relying on external services like OpenAI or Google. This not only saves you money but also protects your privacy by keeping call data secure on your own machines.
Whether you choose to run this service on a desktop computer or in the cloud, you have full control over your data. For optimal performance, consider using powerful yet affordable desktop AI computers, such as the Asus Ascent GX10, or enhance a server with GPU 5090 boards. Alternatively, you can opt for a GPU instance from cloud providers like Google or Amazon.
Accurate Speaker Diarization
Our transcription feature also boasts a significant advantage: it can analyze voice in stereo, guaranteeing 100% accurate speaker diarization. Unlike external services, which rely on AI guesses, 3CX ensures that you know precisely who said what during calls. This level of accuracy is essential for situations where accountability is paramount.
Furthermore, all calls will be summarized with actionable points sent via email, making it easier for you to follow up on important discussions. You can also access these summaries from the recents page, streamlining your workflow.
Introducing the Virtual AI Receptionist
The AI Receptionist feature is designed to transform call handling in your organization. Capable of managing over 10 calls simultaneously, this AI-driven system will screen calls, identify spam, and route calls to the appropriate queue or individual – all without any human intervention.
One of the standout features of the AI Receptionist is its multilingual capability. It can seamlessly switch languages based on the caller’s preference, ensuring that every interaction feels personal and professional.
3CX Call Transcription Bundles
For those with smaller installations who wish to utilize our transcription services without investing in GPU machines, we are excited to announce the availability of call transcription bundles via the 3CX online service starting from Update 8. Although pricing details are yet to be finalized, we assure you that 3CX transcription will be significantly more affordable than that of competitors like OpenAI.
Unlike many competitors who impose hefty fees for AI functionalities, our new features will be integrated into all editions of 3CX. This reflects our commitment to providing value and maintaining our competitive edge in the market.
Understanding the Extension Fair Usage Policy
For some time now, we’ve published extension and user benchmark ranges on our website. We recognize that these may not have been clear to everyone, and we aim to clarify our expectations regarding fair usage.
The unique licensing model of 3CX benefits medium to large installations, allowing a broader user range without the burden of per-user, per-month fees. While the majority of our license holders adhere to our fair usage policy, a small percentage- approximately 15% – have exceeded the limits.
To address this issue without raising costs for all users, we will focus on the minority of users who fall outside our extension fair usage policy. These users will be required to purchase the appropriate SIM Call license. For those with prepaid multi-year licenses who do not comply, we will consider refunds for the unused portion of their licenses.
Importantly, any enforcement of extension limits will not occur before April 1, 2026. This gives those exceeding the fair usage limits ample time to explore their options—whether upgrading their licenses or considering alternative IP phone systems.
Maximum Number of Extensions Explained
Below is a detailed table outlining the maximum number of extensions permitted per SIM Call license. Note that system extensions are not included in these totals:
| # User / Ext Range | Max # User / Ext | # SIM Calls | 3CX Price | Popular Alternative |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-10 | 15 | 4 | … | … |
| 11-25 | 40 | 8 | €350 | $4,800 |
| 26-50 | 80 | 16 | €750 | $9,600 |
| 51-70 | 132 | 24 | €1,095 | $15,840 |
| 71-120 | 176 | 32 | €1,395 | $21,120 |
| 121-160 | 288 | 48 | €2,195 | $34,560 |
| 161-200 | 384 | 64 | €2,895 | $46,080 |
| 201-300 | 576 | 96 | €4,495 | $69,120 |
| 301-400 | 768 | 128 | €5,995 | $92,160 |
| 401-600 | 1152 | 192 | €8,995 | ? |
| 601-800 | 1536 | 256 | €11,995 | ? |
| 801-1550 | 3072 | 512 | €18,995 | ? |
| 1551-4000 | 6144 | 1024 | €34,995 | ? |
*Please note that prices are subject to tax, VAT, and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Changes may occur at any time without prior notice.
Pricing Adjustments Ahead
To accommodate the introduction of these innovative AI features, pricing adjustments will take effect on November 1, 2025. We remain committed to providing our users with the best value while ensuring that our products continue to lead the industry.
Commitment to Innovation and Value
3CX is dedicated to being at the forefront of medium to large-enterprise phone systems. Our new AI features not only demonstrate our commitment to innovation but also reinforce our position as the most competitively priced product in its class. We are excited about what the future holds for 3CX and our users.
Join the conversation around 3CX AI in our dedicated Partner or Customer Forums. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest news and feature releases.
Source Article: https://www.3cx.com/blog/news/ai-features-and-fair-use-policy/
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