Good features on Motorola MPx handset

Mobile device manufacturer Motorola said on Tuesday that its upcoming MPx handset will feature support for the GoodLink wireless messaging system designed by Good Technology, a rival of Research In Motion.

The announcement is another step forward in Good's battle to compete with market leader RIM, which has already signed up more than one million customers for its own BlackBerry wireless messaging services. RIM and Good have also been engaged in a legal battle, with several lawsuits winding their way through the court system.

In February, Good updated its GoodLink software to make it appear and function more like PC-based applications. The company also added support for devices running on Microsoft's Windows Mobile software. Motorola said the deal should offer MPx buyers a secure system for Microsoft Outlook connectivity and access to other business applications.

The multifunction MPx device is expected to be one of Motorola's most advanced mobile handsets to date, offering a combination of features found in phones and personal digital assistants, along with the ability to send and receive email. The handset is expected to arrive on the market during the second half of 2004. The dual-hinge device will flip open one way for voice functions and in another manner for email, with a wider screen, stylus and traditional keyboard. The MPx will also offer built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless technology.

In addition to adding new features to its wireless system, Good has attempted to simplify its software to ease administration concerns and encourage more widespread adoption. The company believes that if its software is easier to manage, companies will start giving mobile devices to employees beyond top management.

While Good was originally focused on consumer sales, its current business centres on signing up large businesses to use its software. The software maker recently announced a deal with Webcor, a construction company, to release 200 Good-enabled handhelds to its project directors who manage construction projects on-site. Webcor executives said moving to multifunction handsets will help them reduce the number of devices its employees carry.

Matt Hines writes for CNET News.com.