Google, Microsoft get in sync

Web giant Google has tapped up its software nemesis, Microsoft, for access to ActiveSync, a protocol which will see Google services info delivered to the iPhone and Windows Mobile devices.

The newly announced Google Sync platform allows users to get their Gmail contacts and Google Calendar events onto their phone, and now extends that functionality to the iPhone and Windows Mobile devices.

The sync platform uses push technology, which means that any changes made to the calendar or contacts from the browser or phone will be reflected on the device within minutes. And for devices which support SyncML, the tool will allow users to get access to Gmail contacts on their phone over the air, with a version already available for BlackBerry users.

Prior to these developments, users were forced to use third party syncing tools to transfer information between Google and certain devices.

In related news, Microsoft recently announced an expansion of its Exchange ActiveSync licensing program, with licensees currently include partners and competitors Apple, Nokia, Palm, Samsung, and Sony Ericsson, among others.

It seems the web services firms are finally learning to play together for the sake of the users. In Google’s own words, one advantage of storing information online is being able to access it from anywhere, on any device.

Microsoft let slip information about its forthcoming My Phone service earlier this week. The online suite syncs information between a user’s Windows mobile phone and the web, paving the way for backup services, photo publishing and social networking tools.