Some pretty big news in April that I never got around to posting: RIM announced the Blackberry Application Suite for Windows Mobile (via).
RIM plans to begin offering the new software application suite later this year for select devices based on Windows Mobile 6. Once installed, the software will provide users with a virtual BlackBerry application experience, including support for BlackBerry email, phone, calendar, address book, tasks, memos, browser, instant messaging and other applications developed for the BlackBerry platform. Devices running the BlackBerry application suite will be able to connect to BlackBerry services via BlackBerry® Enterprise Server as well as BlackBerry® Internet Service.
One of the reasons I hesitated initially in getting the T-Mobile Dash is that I'm not happy with the support for multiple Exchange Servers with Windows Mobile. With my Blackberry 8700, I can get push e-mail seamlessly from work, home, and my other exchange server. This obviously changes things...
It's an interesting move, especially considering RIM's efforts to compete in the consumer device market with the Curve and Pearl (sporting cameras and other consumer-centric features). This is essentially the same play that GoodMail is doing - instead of selling the devices that I assume have fairly low margins, sell the same experience as software.
RIM may lose some share of the device market, but I assume that has to be the lowest margin area of their business. If they can still sell the Blackberry experience without having to the design, manufacturing and marketing costs, it has to be a win. (Not that I think they'll stop making devices anytime soon). Ultimately, I think this is a good long-term play for RIM.