BlackBerry users gain access to MS Exchange Online

Research in Motion (RIM) has announced a new hosted online service that will provide SMEs and enterprises with access to Microsoft Office 365 messaging services using BlackBerry smartphones.

The beta of BlackBerry Business Cloud Services launches today, with a full rollout expected in January 2012.

However, only the Exchange Online part of Office 365 will be accessible through BlackBerry smartphones, and only on an Office 365 Enterprise and Midsized Businesses plans. In addition, only users with BlackBerry Device Software 4.5 or later will be able to access the service.

The service will work with BlackBerry smartphones on business and consumer data plans.

RIM vice president Alan Panezic said: “We’ve been working with Microsoft and select customers to deliver an early access program, and the beta service is ready for use.”

Customers will get access to Microsoft Exchange Online calendar, email and organiser data using BlackBerry smartphones through a dedicated SSL connection.

The service will also include BlackBerry Balance, a technology that allows users to partition work and personal content, keeping them separate and secure.

IT administrators will be able to manage, provision and secure their firm's BlackBerry smartphones through a web-based console.

Users will have access to smartphone security settings, enabling them to reset passwords or remotely wipe the device if it is lost or stolen.

Office 365 customers can sign up for the new BlackBerry Business Cloud Services beta here.