Wireless devices are outgrowing the cradles once used to transmit personal information like datebook reminders and contact lists from portable PDAs to desktop computers.
Last week, Verizon Wireless launched PalmOne Inc.’s Treo 600 smart phone, including integrated always-on wireless synchronization capabilities that enable constant, real-time updates between the handset and the desktop without a cradle or cables.
Along with the launch of the Treo device, Verizon announced it will use Intellisync Corp.’s Mobile Suite technology, under the Wireless Sync brand name, as its e-mail and synchronization platform for the Treo 600.
The technology allows a wireless device to become an actual extension of the desktop PC, explained Rip Gerber, chief marketing officer at Intellisync, in that it enables real-time over-the-air synchronization with users’ groupware-based e-mail and applications including Microsoft Outlook and Lotus Notes.
Verizon also will implement Wireless Sync for the Kyocera 7135, Samsung i600 and Samsung i700 devices.
To enable the two-way synchronization capabilities, in which data is pushed between the computers, users are required to install a client onto their PC. To use the feature, a user clicks a synchronization icon on a desktop computer or a button on their device, then approves changes, and data is wirelessly transferred between the devices via over-the-air technology. In addition, the device automatically synchs each time it is powered down.
The software allows users “to connect with any device to any data source and eventually to any carrier network,” explained Gerber.
The server solution, which also allows carriers to manage devices and offer wireless e-mail to groups of enterprise users, has been well received in the enterprise market, Gerber said. Previously, Verizon only offered such a solution on Research In Motion Ltd.’s wireless e-mail Blackberry device, Gerber said.
The Treo therefore offers Verizon customers “tremendous choice,” Gerber added, in that users can access phone capabilities and personal information management tools, in addition to wireless e-mail, on it. Gerber expects a large global rollout of Treo-like devices to occur next year.
Verizon plans to offer the Treo 600 initially to its business users, and eventually also through its consumer-user channel.
The device is available through Verizon Wireless retail stores for $450 with a two-year service plan. Verizon’s voice and data plans begin at $25 per month for 5 MB of data when added to a calling plan that costs at least $35.
The Treo 600 is also offered from AT&T Wireless Services Inc., Cingular Wireless L.L.C., Orange plc, Sprint PCS and T-Mobile USA Inc. It is available in a CDMA or GSM/GPRS version, includes e-mail and text-messaging capabilities, a Palm-powered organizer, Internet access and an integrated digital camera. It is also available without the camera.
Sierra Wireless also played a part in Verizon’s launch of the Treo. The company provided the integrated EM3420 CDMA 1X-based embedded module to offer voice, data, messaging functionality and power management on the device.
“Sierra Wireless provided Palm-One extensive support through the integration and carrier certification process, reducing our development time and costs,” said Jerry Tu, director of communication technologies for PalmOne.
Intellisync’s synchronization application was also recently implemented for customers using Danger Inc.’s Hiptop wireless device with wireless service from SunCom. The users can now wirelessly synchronize their address books, calendars and tasks with Microsoft Outlook or Exchange thanks to the application.
