Palm Updates Pre webOS to v1.1.0 With an Eye on the Enterprise
Palm's latest update to its webOS mobile operating system for the Pre includes a number of new features and enhancements meant specifically for enterprises, like the ability for IT to remotely wipe users' devices via Microsoft Exchange.
'"Pre" and "business" just got a lot friendlier!,' reads Palm's official blog.
Enterprise-oriented features within webOS v1.1.0 include:
- Bolstered Exchange ActiveSync (EAS) support for Microsoft Exchange environments
- Remote wipe functionality, including the ability to have a device wipe itself after a certain number of bad password attempts
- PIN/Password mandate policies
- Enhanced certificate handling/li>
- Wider time-zone support for travelers
- HTML formatting fixes for enterprise mail accounts
And updating webOS on a Pre really couldn't be simpler. Users are prompted whenever a new version is available and they need only accept the update. Pre users can also manually check for updates themselves and wirelessly download and install the software if available. And the entire update process takes less than 10 minutes--at least it did when I upgraded my review unit Pre to webOS v1.0.3. (webOS has been officially updated a total of three times since its release in early June.)
The Pre's update process is so simple, other handset maker's like Research In Motion (RIM) could really learn a thing or two from Palm. Updating a BlackBerry OS is currently a tedious task that not only requires a PC--there's no Mac-compatible BlackBerry desktop software...yet--it can take the better part of an hour to complete.
Additional features added in webOS v1.1.0 include emoticon-support in the Pre messaging app; reminders that pop up whenever specifics contacts call or message you; and the return of iTunes sync for the Pre, which had previously been blocked by Apple.
For more specifics on webOS v1.1.0, visit Palm's website.
And read my Palm Pre review for a breakdown of the device itself.
AS
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