In the push for wireless connectivity and information access from any device, a standard for synchronisation of data and devices is the next logical step. Creating this standard is the goal of the SyncML supporter programme, which currently includes more than 150 registered supporters.
The founders of the SyncML initiative, Lotus, IBM, Ericsson, Motorola, Nokia, Psion, Palm Inc. and Starfish Software, expect a variety of products, compliant to this standard, to be on the market as early as 2001. "It is our aim to accelerate the growth and adoption of wireless devices for use across a variety of business and consumer applications," says Lesego Tlhabanelo, marketing communications manager at Lotus Development SA.
Coinciding with the announcement of its most recent members, the group has also unveiled its timetable for the development of its protocol. Registered supporters are able to gain access to the Architecture white paper found in the supporter area of the SyncML Web site.
The white paper contains a technical overview of the structural design and provides insight into the initiative, which is geared toward companies interested in developing SyncML-compliant client or server implementations.
"This white paper will serve as a showcase of the programme`s rapid development of protocol technology, geared toward enabling device manufacturers, service providers and application developers to deliver compliant products and services in about a year`s time," says Tlhabanelo.
Support for this initiative includes Web-based calendering, portal, digital imaging, synchronisation and wireless application technologies. Xircom, Visto Corporation, BT Cellnet and Corel Corporation, have joined existing SyncML supporters such as Symbian, Excite@Home, Puma, Paragon, and fusionOne. Tlhabanelo says each of the supporters will work closely with the founding companies to pioneer the development, introduction and adoption of the initiative industry-wide.
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