SyncML, an open industry initiative, is further strengthening its position as a universal data synchronization protocol. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), the standardization forum for 3G mobile systems, has accepted a proposal by the SyncML initiative to adopt SyncML as the protocol for future mobile data synchronization services. This breakthrough agreement, which was approved in the 3GPP TSG-T plenary session in March, means that SyncML will replace IrMC as a sole wide area network synchronization solution in 3GPP release 4.
"We are delighted to see that this respected standardization forum has recognized the need for globally applicable open specifications and true interoperability for key services of 3G," said Douglas Heintzman, the chairman of the SyncML Initiative. "We are constantly working together with various industry fora and bodies to secure the best future-proof technology for mobile data synchronization services."
Founded in February 2000, the SyncML initiative recognized the worldwide need for a universal data synchronization protocol. With the industry-wide proliferation of mobile devices and the evolution of these devices into a major means of information exchange, synchronization of data will be of integral importance. Committed to solve the data synchronization problem, one year after it's launch, the SyncML Initiative and the whole industry are witnessing seamless global data synchronization becoming a reality.
SyncML-enabled products and services will offer consumers mobile freedom by synchronizing personal data and providing interoperability among all SyncML-compliant products and services. Consumers and business professionals alike will be able to synchronize their personal data, such as contacts and calendars, in mobile terminals with various applications and services including corporate personal information managers, Internet calendars, Internet address books, and more.
For more information on the 3GPP www.3gpp.org.
About SyncML
SyncML is an open industry specification for universal data synchronization of remote data and personal information across multiple networks, platforms and devices. The SyncML initiative is sponsored by Ericsson, IBM, Lotus, Matsushita, Motorola, Nokia, Palm, Inc. Psion, Starfish Software and supported by over 600 key wireless companies. Companies interested in deploying SyncML-compliant products and services in 2001 and beyond are encouraged to join the initiative. For more information on the SyncML initiative www.syncml.org.
About Nokia
Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on six major exchanges.
Further information:
Ericsson
Bo Albertson
+ 46 8 764 1388
bo.albertson@ecs.ericsson.se
IBM
Mike Maney
+1 914 766 3366
mmaney@us.ibm.com
Lotus
Michael Shamrell
+ 1 617 693 1264
michael_shamrell@lotus.com
Motorola
David C. Rudd
+ 1 847 576 7089
david.rudd@motorola.com
Nokia Mobile Phones
Communications
+358 7180 08000
Palm, Inc.
Julia Rodriguez
+ 1 408 326 9390
julia.rodriguez@palm.com
Palm, Inc.
Amy Nemechek
A&R Partners Public Relations
+ 1 303 730 5755
anemechek@arpartners.com
Psion PLC
Anthony Garvey,
+ 44 171 317 4265
anthony-garvey@psion.com
Starfish Software
Press Relations
+ 1 831 461 5815
tom@starfish.com