Good Technology Inc., a developer of mobile corporate data and messaging systems, on Tuesday said its software will now work on handheld devices powered by Microsoft Corp."s Pocket PC platform, potentially allowing millions more people to use the technology. Sunnyvale, California-based Good is a bitter rival to Waterloo, Ontario-based Research In Motion Ltd., whose BlackBerry devices are popular among mobile workers. Both companies provide systems that let users stay in touch with corporate data using handheld devices and so-called "smartphones," which mix mobile phone and computer features. The rivals have also sued each other for patent infringement.
Closely-held Good on Tuesday unveiled GoodLink 3.0, an updated version of its system, which now will work with devices driven by Microsoft"s Pocket PC software, such as those made by Hewlett-Packard and Dell Inc. Companies use wireless devices to provide sales people and other traveling employees with critical data, such as inventory figures, or e-mail. Central servers hold the information, while software such as GoodLink enables various devices to stay linked. Danny Shader, Chief Executive of Good Technology, told Reuters the potential for growth is fueled by the evolution of high-speed data networks and devices that can work with them. "The carriers have spend billions building out connectivity everywhere, the (handheld software) is ready, and the devices are now ready," he told Reuters.