Wireless Knowledge put a feather in its cap today with the launch of a new software solution for accessing data from wireless devices. The move strengthened the wireless software maker’s portfolio of mobile data offerings for businesses and no doubt made its parent companies Microsoft Corp. and Qualcomm Inc. proud of their offspring.
AnyStyle software extends the capabilities of Wireless Knowledge’s flagship WorkStyle Server solution, which provides business users with mobile access to corporate email, calendar, and contact information from any Internet-enabled device. AnyStyle is installed on the same server as WorkStyle for a one-server solution with multiple device support.
Wireless Knowledge will initially make its new solution available for RIM 950 and 957 pagers, with support for Palm devices and Pocket PCs soon to follow. AnyStyle automatically synchronizes data over the air whenever the device is within network coverage, with no cradle required, and then stores the data on the device for offline usage. This feature enables mobile workers to access and interact with corporate data at any time from any location and eliminates the need to connect to the Internet.
Many alternative products currently on the market require users to download calendar and contact data to the RIM device using a cradle connected to a personal computer. Also, unlike competitive products that redirect data from the user’s personal computer to the pager, AnyStyle sends data straight to the RIM device. This reduces the cost and the risk of leaving a desktop computer running at the office while an employee is on the road.
“With the introduction of AnyStyle, Wireless Knowledge now offers the most comprehensive portfolio of mobile data offerings for businesses,” said Eric Schultz, chairman and chief executive officer of Wireless Knowledge. “Using AnyStyle, customers can wirelessly access corporate data while inside the firewall, while connected to the Internet, or while using wireless devices with offline capabilities. Supporting three access methods with one server gives mobile users unprecedented freedom in choosing the mobility solution that best fits their needs.”
The first release of AnyStyle is compatible with Microsoft Exchange 5.5 and 2000. The company anticipates releasing support for the Lotus Domino messaging platform later this year, along with support for additional devices with offline data storage capabilities such as personal digital assistants and smart phones.
Wireless Knowledge is headquartered in San Diego.
