Nokia has recently announced, via a press release issued on its official website, that it intends to get rid of its behind-the-firewall business mobility solutions. This means that software solutions like Nokia Intellisync Wireless Email will no longer be supported and will cease to be available. 

 

Instead, Nokia will leverage on business applications and solutions developed by Microsoft, IBM, Cisco and others, all of which are companies with which the Finnish giant has worked before.

 

Relinquishing a part of its software solutions will allow Nokia to better concentrate on further developing top-class handsets, like the Nokia E71 and Nokia E66.

 

"We have very strong relationships with industry leading enterprise technology partners such as Cisco and Microsoft, as well as a broad range of operator and retail channel partners,” declared EVP of Services & Software for Nokia, Niklas Savander. “Together with them, we will use our expertise in devices, as well as the combined channel footprint and customer base, to deliver a range of unbeatable end-to-end offerings for business. The initial success of the Nokia E71 with Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync is a great example of the attractiveness of our new approach. We will also continue with our investment strategy to develop key consumer Internet services in areas such as music, games, media, messaging and context based services."

 

Corporate Vice President of Exchange Group, Microsoft, Terry Myerson, added, "As recently demonstrated by the launch of Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync on over 40 Nokia S60 phones, Microsoft and Nokia are committed to working together to deliver great experiences for our customers. At Microsoft, we look forward to ongoing collaboration with Nokia to address the tremendous opportunities for both our companies in unified communications."

 

Nokia also said it was very close to selling its security appliances business, but did not disclose the potential buyer. "If this transaction is concluded,” Niklas Savander said, “it would be an extremely positive development for the security appliance business, which will be able to realize its full potential under new ownership. The investor is committed to continuing the development and growth of the business, to serving its current network of customers, and to retaining and motivating its employees."