JP Mobile has introduced a new version of its wireless
e-mail platform, adding security management features acquired from
Asynchrony Solutions in May.
The SureWave Mobile Office suite - an update of JP Mobile's
SureWave Enterprise Server - is the latest to take on the popular
BlackBerry mobile e-mail system with platform- and device-agnostic
software.
Its rivals include Intellisync and Sproqit Technologies;
Intellisync debuted a new platform in April, while Sproqit, which
is taking a less server-centric approach, is to deliver its
software this month.
Like offerings from BlackBerry and Intellisync, SureWave Mobile
Office gives enterprises behind-the-firewall software which allows
for two-way synchronisation of corporate data. SureWave supports
synchronisation of e-mail, calendar, contacts and tasks via various
wireless networks - including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth - and a cradle.
Synchronisation can be real-time or offline.
Users can view attachments and have access to the company's
global address book. When linked to a Windows Mobile smartphone the
software makes use of the device's built-in e-mail, calendar and
other applications, JP Mobile said.
On the server side, SureWave supports Microsoft Exchange, Novell
GroupWise and IBM's Lotus Domino; companies can extend other
applications to integrate with the platform. Devices using Symbian
OS, Windows Mobile and the Palm OS are currently supported.
The company is bundling features from Mobile Defense, acquired
from Asynchrony Solutions, which allows IT managers much tighter
control over device security than is possible with some other
platforms. Administrators can modify group settings, control
passwords, encrypt application data, wipe data from devices and
carry out other tasks remotely.
Devices can be set to wipe data after failed login attempts or
after a set period of time. JP Mobile says the server-side software
is easy to set-up and can be administered via a web-based
interface.
The new SureWave platform made its US debut this week on
AT&T Wireless Services' Audiovox SMT 5600 smart phone;
customers still need to activate the software. AT&T is bundling
Intellisync Mobile Suite, supporting Exchange and Domino, with the
same device.
Sproqit, which earlier announced its own platform would be
available in mid-October, is initially targeting individuals and
smaller businesses. Sproqit's system uses a server only to
coordinate connections between mobile device and desktop, while a
desktop agent does most of the work, theoretically turning the
mobile device into an infinitely customisable remote control.
Sproqit Personal Edition, using a centralised server outside the
firewall to make connections, will be available shortly, and
entails an $8.95 per month charge in the US, or £8 a month in the
UK. The enterprise version, with a behind-the-firewall server, is
due next year and has no monthly charge.
Matthew Broersma writes for Techworld.com