ActiveSync Getting a New Name, Facelift

In Windows Vista -- the next version of Microsoft's operating system for PCs -- there will be some major changes in ActiveSync.

First off, this synchronization software for Pocket PCs and Smartphones is being renamed Windows Mobile Device Center.

Also, according to the Microsoft web site, "most of the user interface has changed in an effort to enhance your ability to easily and intuitively find device-related tasks and improve the overall usability of those tasks."

Not All New

Despite these changes, the Windows Mobile Device Center will still perform the same tasks as ActiveSync does now.

For example, it will be the way mobile device users synchronize their data with Outlook or Exchange and install software.

It will also allow users to browse the contents of a Windows Mobile-based device from a desktop as well as transfer files from Windows Media Player.

Windows Vista is expected to be released by Microsoft near the end of this year.

Related Links

• Microsoft Releases ActiveSync 4.1

Thanks to Smartphone Thoughts for the tip.