Synchronica claims to be among the first to combine SyncML (Synchronization Markup Language), now known as OMA DS (Open Mobile Alliance Data Synchronization), which is optimized for calendar and contact synchronization, with Push-IMAP, which is optimized for mobile email. Push-IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) is based on IMAPv4 Rev1 with additional enhancements for optimization in a mobile setting.
While SyncML is supported by the majority of devices in the market, only a small number of devices support email synchronization over SyncML, according to Synchronica. On the other hand, millions of devices support email over IMAP, but IMAP doesn't support calendar or contact synchronization. Thus, combining Push-IMAP for mobile email with SyncML for synchronization of calendar and contacts provides "ideal synergy supporting the widest range of devices."
Synchronica says its Mobile Gateway provides carrier-grade push email and synchronization services for both consumers and business users. On the consumer side, it includes back-end support for POP3 and IMAP connecting to popular mail services such as MSN or Yahoo. For business users, it provides a "zero footprint" architecture where users simply register with Mobile Gateway and instantly start to receive email.
The company believes the day is fast approaching when mobile email replaces SMS messaging as the consumer communication medium of choice.
CEO Carsten Brinkschulte stated, "With such a wealth of mass market devices supporting mobile email now available, the time is right for push-email to expand to the consumer markets. Virtually every mobile phone user has an email account and most of them by now have an email-enabled device. With the right marketing and technology, push-email for the mass-market will become the next generation SMS."
Pricing and availability were not disclosed.
Related stories:
