Although it is ironic to see that messaging systems are being accepted as mission-critical, this is the reality of the always connected workplace of today. Therefore high reliability, security, and consistent availability of the messaging systems became a norm to meet demanding user needs. As a result, Microsoft augmented Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 with feature-rich mobile messaging solutions with direct synchronization to Windows Mobile-based devices. Windows Mobile solutions are implemented in a full range of horizontal and vertical industries on Pocket PCs, Smartphones, and even Tablet PCs. Building on the Windows Mobile device foundation and wireless connectivity, Microsoft provides connectivity to back-end messaging systems in a simple, rapid, and cost-effective means. Finally, the familiar and intuitive Microsoft Windows interfaces expedited the adoption of the mobile messaging in an extremely flexible platform from mobile devices to wireless connectivity with strong security and systems management framework.   Smartphones A Windows Mobile-based Smartphone integrates PDA-type functionality into a voice-centric handset comparable in size to today's mobile phones according to Microsoft; these devices are basically optimized for voice and text communication while allowing wireless access to back-end messaging systems as well as corporate and Internet information and services. The truly innovative Windows Mobile™-based Smartphone has a high-resolution, graphical, color screen small enough to fit on a compact phone yet big enough to comfortably play games, view e-mails and images, and browse the Web. A Windows Mobile based Smartphone provides rich functionality by utilizing tools like Pocket Outlook, unified inbox, contacts, calendar and tasks. In addition, Pocket Internet Explorer, MSN Messenger, Windows Media Player, and ActiveSync are among the programs supported. Finally, personalization, strong security with Windows Mobile 5.0, one-hand operation, Smartdial, Infrared Beaming, games and especially expandability makes Smartphones a good choice for the mobile workforce. Microsoft announced the Messaging and Security Feature Pack for Windows Mobile™ 5.0, software based on wireless features coming in Exchange Server 2003 with Service Pack 2 (SP2) in June. This announcement is a direct reflection of what businesses were requesting from Microsoft, to address requests by business customers for a faster, more direct messaging experience, improved security management, and better cost efficiencies and scalability in their mobile messaging solutions according the announcement. Among the enhancements to Outlook Mobile are Windows Mobile direct push technology, and wireless support for contact information that will allow over-the-air lookup of the Global Address List (GAL). In addition, managing mobile devices with remotely enforced IT policies, local and remote device wipeout, and certificate based authentication will definitely bring in better protection of mobile devices. back to Mobile   Trademark Acknowledgements Any company, product or service names are trademarks or service marks of their respective companies.