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Analysis: Mobile E-Mail: Page 7 of 12

There are several core features that all vendors support. In addition to synchronizing mailbox and calendar, users are able to schedule meetings, query the corporate directory for clients, sync their address book and perform other routine tasks.

As for e-mail server support, not surprisingly, everyone works with Microsoft Exchange. Nokia and RIM add IBM Domino and Novell GroupWise, Good Mobile Messaging integrates with Lotus Notes and Domino, and Sybase supports Exchange and Domino. Microsoft packs the most advanced mobile features into Exchange 2007.

Some value-adds: Microsoft includes the ability to access SharePoint Intranet sites through ActiveSync. Nokia cites several features geared toward business travelers, including one that parses out travel itinerary information, stores it in the user's calendar, and can then look at the calendar and use the destinations listed to provide turn-by-turn directions. RIM also targets the directionally challenged with BlackBerry Maps, which provide directions and integrate with GPS receivers found on select handhelds. Motorola Good includes an RSS news reader to keep users in sync with the world around them. Sybase iAnywhere is unique in providing instant messaging integration through a separate product.

While we don't believe any of these features will make or break a mobile e-mail deployment, they are niceties designed to help vendors stand out from a pack where client features are increasingly reaching parity. In fact, in responding to our RFI, each homed in on strengths beyond mobile e-mail.

• Microsoft's ace is that it owns both Windows Mobile and Exchange. With no added software needed for mobile e-mail integration—support is included in Exchange 2007 CALs—costs are relatively modest. Support will be less expensive as well as there is no additional mobile e-mail system to maintain, separate from the collaboration environment. Microsoft supports only its own Exchange 2003 SP1 and Exchange 2007 collaboration servers, and as is the case with most new software, the latest and greatest features are found in Exchange 2007.