Good Technology Upgrades Wireless Messaging ToolsGood Technology Upgrades Wireless Messaging Tools

Good Technology Inc. on Monday stepped up efforts to attract more enterprise customers to its wireless messaging tools, releasing a new version of its server software and unveiling partnerships meant to broaden the range of devices that run its software.

GoodLink 2.0, an upgrade of the software that connects users of devices running Good software to Microsoft Exchange and other enterprise applications, features tweaks designed to make support of the units easier for IT departments. The upgrade features improved synchronization tools, allowing users to keep enterprise data and system software stored on the handheld up to date without using a cradle; enhanced security management capabilities; and fleet management controls that let administrators remotely administer policies individually and globally.

Those management tools are one of the main ways Good is distinguishing itself against larger competitor Research in Motion Ltd., maker of the BlackBerry handheld. "People that know Good understand that the advantage they offer over RIM is the wireless synchronization, not needing a cradle," Gartner analyst Todd Kort says. "The big advantage of this is that the IT folks don't have to get as heavily involved, and therefore there's a lot less [cost] involved."

Other changes are designed to make the software work better on hybrid PDA/cell phones. The system now features better support for voice and data on cellular networks and integrated support for text messaging. The software will run on Good's own G100 device, as well as handhelds running the Palm operating system. The company plans to release a PocketPC-compatible version later this year.

Good also announced a number of partnerships that will bolster its efforts to gain share in the hybrid phone market. A new strategic relationship with Handspring Inc. will produce in September the Handspring Treo 600, a PalmOS-based phone that comes bundled with GoodLink 2.0. Good also announced a renewed relationship with cellular carrier Cingular Wireless, which supports the Good software for customers on its network.