Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft is working on software to allow devices that use Windows Mobile to connect to a corporate IM server running Microsoft's Live Communications Server 2005. The mobile front end's user interface based on Live Communications Server's new PC-based client, Microsoft Office Communicator 2005, formerly called Istanbul will allow instant messaging, e-mail and short messaging service (SMS), as well as video conferencing and Web conferencing. In addition, rival Research In Motion plans to develop messaging software for devices that link to servers using software from both RIM and Microsoft
Microsoft hopes corporate instant-messaging and Web-conferencing products will increase as companies encourage employees to work together remotely, rather than in face-to-face meetings.
"Information workers spend a lot of time away from their desks for meetings, travel, customer visits and other demands, and having mobile access to enterprise-grade real-time communications can help them work smarter and more efficiently," said Gurdeep Pall, corporate vice president for the Real-Time Collaboration Group at Microsoft. "Through the new Windows Mobile client and innovative mobile solutions from a vibrant ecosystem of developer partners, we'll offer mobile users an integrated communications and presence-sharing experience, all within a security-enhanced, trusted environment."
Microsoft said the mobile version of its recently upgraded instant messaging program for businesses will be available in the second half of 2005.
Zdnet . Reuters
