Microsoft and Motorola Form Strategic Alliance to Extend Unified Communications to Mobile Devices

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Microsoft Corp. and Motorola Inc. have announced a multiyear joint marketing and development alliance to deliver unified communications solutions using Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 across Motorola mobile devices and network hardware. The collaboration is intended to enable enterprise customers to seamlessly connect and share information in real time regardless of location, network or device.The initial planned offering will start with the Motorola HC700 series rugged mobile computing devices based on Windows Mobile Pocket PC platform and the Motorola Q Windows Mobile Smartphone (pictured). The offering will combine the presence awareness and instant messaging (IM) capabilities of Communications Server 2007 with Motorola's Windows Mobile 5.0-based devices through the integration of Microsoft Office Communicator Mobile with Motorola's MOTOPRO Mobility Suite and Wireless Services Manager (WSM) products, enabling users to seamlessly communicate and collaborate across heterogeneous access networks.As a result, Microsoft and Motorola customers of Communications Server 2007 will benefit from added functionality and increased connectivity to colleagues, strategic partners and customers using the applications, devices and networks they rely on most.The solution will enable users to access Communicator Mobile on Motorola Windows Mobile-based devices, further extending the capabilities of unified communications across the mobile environment. The solution is designed to enable enterprises to have the opportunity to benefit from faster decision- making; greater productivity across workgroups and the remote work force; and improved relationships with customers, partners and suppliers. In addition, IT administrators can access a richer end-to-end infrastructure with an emphasis on reliability, scalability and security, while the general work force benefits from higher-quality, uninterrupted communications and more robust media experiences across these applications, devices and services.Both companies will work to integrate Communications Server 2007 and Communicator Mobile with Motorola's recently launched MOTOPRO Mobility Suite, an integrated software platform that enables rapid mobile application design and deployment coupled with enterprise-class device security and management. The technology will also be integrated with Motorola's WSM product, which facilitates the seamless handoff between WAN, LAN and cellular networks, providing contiguous communication even as enterprise users move from one network to another.