Research In Motion (RIM) has launched BlackBerry server software that synchronises BlackBerry smartphones with Microsoft Exchange or Windows Small Business Server.
The company claims that the new BlackBerry Enterprise Server Express, which is offered free of charge, offers economical advantages to small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) and enables IT departments to meet the growing demand from employees to be able to connect their personal BlackBerry smartphones to their work email.
RIM said that the new server software works with Microsoft Exchange 2010, 2007 and 2003 and Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2008 and 2003; and utilises the same security architecture found in BlackBerry Enterprise Server.
The new offering enables BlackBerry smartphone users to wirelessly synchronise their email, calendar, contacts, notes and tasks; manage email folders and search email on the mail server remotely; book meetings and appointments, check availability and forward calendar attachments; and set an out-of-office reply.
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In addition, the new software enables users to edit Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files using Documents To Go; access files stored on the company network; and use mobile applications to access business systems behind the firewall.
The company said that the new software runs on the same physical or virtual server as the Microsoft mail server or on its own server; and is certified for use with VMware ESX. Its web-based interface allows remote administration and connects BlackBerry smartphones and applies usage policies. It supports over 35 IT controls and policies, including the ability to remotely wipe a smartphone and enforce and reset passwords.
Mike Lazaridis, president and co-CEO of Research In Motion, said: In a marketplace where smartphones are becoming ubiquitous, BlackBerry Enterprise Server Express significantly raises the bar by providing a cost-effective solution that allows companies of all sizes to support enterprise-grade mobile connectivity for all employees without compromising security or manageability.”
