Microsoft's Direct Push Technology Comes to the Treo 650

Palm OS-based Treo smartphones have long been able to use Exchange ActiveSync to access Microsoft Exchange Server information using the VersaMail email application.

In January, Palm announced a software update for the Treo 680 and Treo 700p that enhanced VersaMail by adding Microsoft's Direct Push Technology, which gives users connected to an Exchange Server immediate, automatic wireless updates of email, calendar, and contact information.

This update has just been released for the Treo 650, which is probably the Palm smartphone with the largest number of units currently in use.

Push Email for Palm

For a user with an updated Treo and an Exchange Server, any item that is changed on the smartphone is immediately updated on the server, and vice versa. New emails are sent to the Treo as soon as they arrive on the server.

VersaMail also allows users to accept or decline meeting invites or wirelessly access their company directory.

For those who don't have access to Exchange through their company, many wireless carriers offer access to one for an additional fee.

This feature is already available on Windows Mobile-based Treos, but there is not a version for any of Palm's traditional handhelds.

Pricing and Availability

Those wishing to update their device can visit Palm’s Software Connection to purchase the Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync Update for $2.99.

This software requires VersaMail 3.5. Any users who do not already have it on their Treo 650 can be purchase an email update along with the Exchange ActiveSync Update for $12.98.