SyncML

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SyncML (Synchronization Markup Language) is the former name (currently referred to as: Open Mobile Alliance Data Synchronization and Device Management) for a platform-independent information synchronization standard. Existing synchronization solutions have mostly been somewhat vendor-, application- or operating system specific. The purpose of SyncML is to change this by offering an open standard as a replacement. Several major companies such as Motorola, Nokia, Sony Ericsson, IBM and Siemens AG already support SyncML in their products. Philippe Kahn was instrumental in the founding vision for synchronization with Starfish Software, later acquired by Motorola. The founding vision as expressed by Kahn was: "Global synchronization and integration of wireless and wireline devices".

SyncML is most commonly thought of as a method to synchronize contact and calendar information between some type of handheld device and a computer (personal, or network-based service), such as between a mobile phone and a personal computer. The new version of the specification includes support for push email, providing a standard protocol alternative to proprietary solutions like BlackBerry.

Some products are now using SyncML for more general information synchronization purposes, such as to synchronize project task information across a distributed group of team members. SyncML can also be used as a base for backup solutions.

The current version of the protocol is OMA Data Synchronization (DS) 1.2. OMA DS 1.2 was ratified as an approved enabler on the 14th August 2006 by the OMA Board of Directors and supersedes the previous version, 1.1.2.

The current version of the protocol is OMA Device Management (DM) 1.2. OMA DM 1.2 was ratified as an approved enabler on February 2007 by the OMA Board of Directors and supersedes the previous version, 1.1.2.

[edit] See also

Funambol - GPL SyncML server software
Yahoo! Mobile - a Yahoo service offered in some countries that uses SyncML technology
Zyb - A free service offered world-wide that uses SyncML technology
Comease Mobile Service - A web site that provides basic and premium SyncML service for end users