In December, Google stated that after January 30th, it would no longer support adding new devices for the Exchange Active Sync protocol for accessing Gmail, Calendar and Contacts. The decision meant that users of Windows Phone smartphones and Windows 8 PCs would not be able to access Gmail with new devices. A few days later, Microsoft said they were"very surprised" at Google"s decision.
Today, there"s word that Google has now backed down and extended EAS support for Windows Phone. In a blog post, Microsoft announced, "We’re happy to share today that Google will extend their support for new Windows Phone connections via Google Sync until July 31, 2013."
The blog post also confirmed that Microsoft is working to add support for the CalDAV and CardDAV protocols for a future version of Windows Phone. The blog stated, "These new protocols, combined with our existing support for the IMAP protocol for email, will enable Windows Phone users to continue to connect to Google services after July 31, 2013. "
There were quite a few protests from Windows Phone owners over Google"s original decision to ditch EAS after today and it looks like Google and Microsoft were able to work out a compromise that will ensure a smooth transition to the new CalDAV and CardDAV protocols.
Source: Microsoft | Image via Google