BlackBerry Professional is based on the core functionality of BlackBerry Enterprise Server software, which is used by governments and large organizations worldwide. It is streamlined to meet the needs of smaller organizations with up to 30 wireless users.
RIM claim that BlackBerry Professional Software enables SMB’s to improve communications and collaboration with a mobility solution, which provides wireless access to email, organizer, internet and intranet applications with advanced security.
The software has BlackBerry mobile data system (MDS) support, which provides customers with the ability to extend internal applications to mobile employees and use any of the third party applications developed for the BlackBerry platform.
The BlackBerry Professional Software can be upgraded to BlackBerry Enterprise Server software, which was launched in 2006. The Enterprise Server software incorporates secure push-based architecture, and administrative features of the BlackBerry platform enabling organizations to extend mobile applications to users, without the requisite of wireless email.
Productivity and flexibility are obviously important for SMBs and we know that the majority of these businesses are interested in a wireless solution, but many have been waiting for a server product, said Mike Lazaridis, president and co-chief executive officer at RIM.
The software is priced at $499 for five users and $849 for 10 users. These packages can be expanded to support up to 30 wireless users with the purchase of additional standard client access licenses (CAL). It is available in multiple languages such as English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish and can be purchased through electronic software download.
RIM is offering its customers the five-user BlackBerry Professional Software free as an introductory offer on purchase of five new BlackBerry smartphones from November 5, 2007 to November 30, 2007.
Source: ComputerWire daily updates
