Apple made headlines late last week when it unveiled new software specifically targeted at its enterprise customers.
The iPhone 2.0 release includes the iPhone Software Development Kit (SDK), as well as support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync.
The iPhone SDK, which is immediately available as a beta release, will allow third party developers to build native applications for the iPhone with a rich set of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), including programming interfaces for Core OS, Core Services, Media and Cocoa Touch technologies.
With the SDK, Apple said developers can leverage on the iPhone’s Multi-Touch user interface, animation technology, large storage, built-in three-axis accelerometer and geographical location technology to conjure up a tsunami of innovative applications.
The strategic partnership with Microsoft will see Exchange ActiveSync built straight into the iPhone 2.0 allowing enterprise customers to connect out-of-the-box to Microsoft Exchange Servers 2003 and 2007 for secure over-the-air push email, contacts, calendars and global address lists.
“iPhone’s enterprise features combined with its revolutionary Multi-Touch user interface and advanced software architecture provide the best user experience and the most advanced software platform ever for a mobile device,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO in a prepared statement.
Analysts say that such business apps will give the iPhone more of an edge when compared to what it offers today – a slick device that does very limited things, namely, email, Google maps, Web browsing, iTunes playback and, of course, to make phone calls.
Throw in 3G wireless broadband capabilities-- which is set to be delivered by the end of this year-- the iPhone 2.0 is ready to compete head on with the big boys of enterprise smartphones such as Research in Motion’s Blackberry.
The iPhone 2.0 has been scheduled for release this June, coinciding with the iPhone’s first year anniversary. |
