WebexOne 2025: Innovation in Collaboration – Event Recap

Recently, Cisilion hosted a virtual spotlight session unpacking the key announcements from WebexOne 2025, Cisco’s flagship collaboration conference. Led by James Pizzey, Cisco Software Specialist, and Ian Perry, Senior Solutions Architect for Collaboration, the session explored how Cisco’s latest innovations are reshaping the future of workplace communication.

Smarter Collaboration with AI

The standout theme? Artificial Intelligence. Cisco’s new AI-powered features are designed to enhance user experience and streamline operations across Webex Calling and devices. Highlights include:

• Caller intent detection and suggested responses to improve call handling
• Topic analytics for real-time insight into contact drivers
• Speech-to-text translation for multilingual accessibility
• AI receptionist capable of answering FAQs, performing actions like appointment changes, and escalating complex queries to human agents

These features create a seamless caller experience, reducing wait times and improving contextual handovers to live agents. The AI receptionist, in particular, stands out as a practical tool for handling repetitive, low-value queries while maintaining a warm, human-like interaction when needed.

Integration with Microsoft Teams

Cisco’s deepening partnership with Microsoft was another key talking point. The integration allows users to retain Microsoft Teams as their front-end interface while leveraging Cisco’s robust calling infrastructure and AI features in the background. This means users benefit from both platforms without compromising on functionality.

The interoperability extends to Copilot, Microsoft’s AI assistant, which now works alongside Cisco’s AI tools. Users can access Webex-generated meeting notes via Copilot and vice versa, creating a unified experience across platforms.

RoomOS 26: A Fresh Look for Cisco Devices

Cisco also unveiled RoomOS 26, a refreshed user interface for Webex devices. Inspired by modern design principles, it offers:

• A cleaner, more intuitive layout
• Enhanced support for third-party integrations
• Improved native experiences for platforms like Zoom and Google Meet

Importantly, RoomOS 26 maintains the familiar Cisco look and feel, ensuring users aren’t met with surprises post-update. It also supports BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) setups, allowing users to connect laptops via USB-C and utilise Cisco’s high-quality cameras and audio systems.

Continued Support for On-Premise Solutions

For organisations still relying on on-premise infrastructure, Cisco reaffirmed its commitment with the announcement of Unified Communications Manager version 16. This update includes:

• Ongoing support for on-premise deployments
• New hypervisor compatibility, starting with Nutanix
• Sustainability-focused hardware like the new Cisco 9811 IP phone, made with 77% post-consumer recycled materials

Cisco’s hybrid approach allows customers to retain control over sensitive data while accessing cloud-based innovations like AI receptionist features.

Cisilion’s Role as a Strategic Partner

As a Cisco Master Collaboration Certified Partner, Cisilion is uniquely positioned to help clients navigate these changes. From bespoke solution design to ongoing support, our team is equipped to deliver tailored deployments that align with each organisation’s goals.

Whether you’re exploring hybrid environments, enhancing your meeting room experience, or integrating AI into your calling workflows, Cisilion is here to guide you through every step.