Hewlett-Packard has targeted corporate users of its iPaq Pocket PC
with two deals that enable the inclusion of corporate e-mail and
access to online storage as options.
HP will bundle Infowave's Symmetry Pro client software on the iPaq
and on the desktop. Using Port 440 to gain access to Microsoft
Exchange Server through the desktop, users will be able to access
e-mail with attachments, contacts, and calendar, remotely. Calendar
updates to shared meetings will also trigger alerts of a schedule
change to all members of a designated workgroup.
Symmetry Pro, like other desktop redirector software, may cause
some consternation among IT managers who do not want end-users to
have unauthorised access to the network.
"Some will not like to see a desktop redirector, but we have server
solutions with all the security an IT manager wants. Everybody
wants the enterprise customer, and you have to start with something
that individuals can try and buy," said Ron Jasper, vice-president
of network operator solutions at InfoWave.
Although the focus is on e-mail and calendar, Infowave also has an
upgrade path called the Wireless Business Engine to give users
access to any Web-based application including CRM, corporate
portals, and other client-server applications.
HP will offer the remote access as part of its Wireless Enterprise
Framework strategy, which will target mobile services in some cases
in direct competition with the wireless carriers who are rolling
out similar services.
One industry analyst believes, however, that although third-party
hosted offerings for PIM applications may be fine, it will not find
corporate acceptance for more strategic applications.
The Symmetry Pro service will cost $19.95 (£6.82) and is available
now.
HP also announced a deal with GoAmerica to use its Mobile Office
Document Manager, which will allow iPaq users to upload and
download frequently used files by accessing online storage.