Synchronizing With Bluetooth

Starfish Software,
a supplier of end-to-end
synchronization software for the
wireless industry and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Motorola,
demonstrated this week the
synchronizing of calendar and
address book data between
Motorola’s new Timeport 270c
wireless phone, Starfish’s
SyncML-enabled TrueSync
server and Microsoft Outlook
2000 using Bluetooth technology.

The event highlights the benefits (and potential) of using Bluetooth
technology to wirelessly keep important personal data updated between a user’s phone,
Microsoft Outlook 2000 and carrier services based on Starfish’s SyncML-enabled TrueSync
server (SyncML is a cross-industry standard for synchronizing email and other data).

Plus, with Motorola’s backing, consumers may finally start to see Bluetooth in place
rather than just hear about it. The Scotts Valley, Calif.-based company is also considered by
many to be one of the tops when it comes to providing PIM connectivity (its synchronization
software, for example, supports Xircom REX Pro, Palm devices and Palm Desktop, ACT!,
Lotus Notes, Schedule+, SideKick, Yahoo Calendar, Excite Planner, assorted Motorola
phones, plus the desktop and Web-based versions of Starfish’s own TrueSync PIM).

“Starfish’s rapid adoption of global standards such as SyncML and Bluetooth have proven to
be key catalysts to the explosive growth in demand for [our services] among wireless
operators,” says Gregg Armstrong, COO at Starfish. “This TrueSync solution is just a preview
of the advanced wireless solutions that Starfish partners across the globe will be deploying later
this year.”

Primarily marketed to carriers, Armstrong says Starfish’s TrueSync platform allows customers
to enter any type of personal information once and access that information everywhere.

“This solution is ideal for wireless carriers today who are seeking next-generation services to
increase the “stickiness” of their offerings,” he says.

He may be right. Yankee Group’s recent report, “U.S. Wireless Subscriber Preferences and
Perceptions at the End of the Second Generation”, predicts carriers will have to seek a
“stronger grip” on customers via newer and advanced application, especially as service
differentiation “continues to dissipate and customers fall back on price and basic service quality
as a determining factor.”