14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has added Gecad to the growing roster of companies licensing Exchange ActiveSync. Following a patent license agreement inked by the companies, Gecad will start to offer its AXIGEN Mail Server lineup of products with support for Exchange ActiveSync. In fact, AXIGEN Mail Server version 7.0 is already available for download and purchase. “This agreement enhances the ability for AXIGEN e-mail servers to directly synchronize with various mobile devices, including those using Windows Mobile, that utilize Exchange ActiveSync,” explained Oana Bornaz, chief executive officer of Gecad Technologies.
The ActiveSync protocol is designed to permit the synchronization of email messages, but also calendars, contact lists, tasks as well as any additional mailbox data between devices. This synchronization can now also be achieved between mobile client devices and the AXIGEN Mail Server. Microsoft, of course, has a long history of licensing its ActiveSych protocol to third parties, and Gecad is only the latest company to jump aboard the software giant's intellectual property licensing wagon.
“Gecad came to us a few months ago because it recognizes, like so many technology companies across Europe, that a way to spur growth in our industry is to license patented technology for mutual benefit,” added David Kaefer, general manager of Intellectual Property Licensing at Microsoft. “People – and companies – want to know their communications foundation is secure, reliable and accessible across many mobile devices, from PDAs to smartphones. And Microsoft has been helping companies overcome those challenges through our Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync licensing program.”
By licensing ActiveSync, Gecad joins the ranks of such companies as Apple, Google Nokia, Palm, Samsung Electronics, Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications, etc. Still, the focus with Gecad is implementing the ActiveSync protocol on servers rather than licensing it for mobile devices. “During tough economic times this agreement makes good business sense, as it will allow AXIGEN to further differentiate itself from its competitors in the business messaging solutions marketplace, in a cost-effective manner,” Bornaz said.