Verizon Wireless and Research In Motion (RIM) announced the availability of BlackBerry Professional Software, a wireless e-mail and data solution specifically designed for small- and medium-sized businesses. Based on the core functionality of BlackBerry Enterprise Server, BlackBerry Professional Software gives smaller organizations enterprise-grade security, control and performance for a fraction of the cost.

"Our small business customers now have a mobility solution that allows user-friendly wireless access to e-mail, calendar, Internet, and intranet applications with advanced security," said Rob Miller, vice president – marketing for Verizon Wireless. "BlackBerry Professional Software from Verizon Wireless addresses the needs of small businesses for an in-house solution that is affordable, simple to install and easy to manage."

Providing access for up to 30 wireless users, BlackBerry Professional Software can be installed onto a company’s in-house Microsoft Exchange or IBM Lotus Domino messaging and collaboration server, eliminating the need for additional hardware and operating system licenses. The solution tightly integrates with the messaging server to provide synchronized and secure wireless access to e-mail, calendar, contacts, notes, tasks, and other applications.

BlackBerry Professional Software provides smaller companies with the protection that is trusted and accredited by organizations around the world. BlackBerry Professional Software also provides support for Java- and Internet-based applications. As a result, customers can develop custom Java- or Internet-based applications for mobile employees and use any of the thousands of third party applications developed for the BlackBerry platform.

BlackBerry Professional Software is available from Verizon Wireless for up to five users for $549.99, or $849.00 for up to 10 users. Both options can be expanded to support up to 30 wireless users with the purchase of additional standard Client Access Licenses (CALs) and can easily be upgraded to the BlackBerry Enterprise Server as the organization grows.

The software is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian. Existing Verizon Wireless customers using BlackBerry Enterprise Server – Small Business Edition can upgrade to BlackBerry Professional Software at no charge by going to www.blackberry.com/go/professionaldownload and downloading the software. Customers who opt for the BlackBerry Professional Software will want to choose from Verizon Wireless Nationwide Email Calling Plans starting at $79.99 monthly access for 450 voice minutes and an unlimited data allowance for e-mail and Web browsing.

Source: Verizon press release