One of the strongest features of Windows Mobile (WM) is its tight integration with Microsoft's Outlook software for mail, contacts and appointments. It used to be that all WM devices shipped with a copy of Outlook, but this has in recent years become rare, if not entirely non-existent. Providing an Outlook license key certainly made it more convenient for users but also added cost to manufacturers. Furthermore, many users already have Outlook installed on their computers, especially those in corporate environments that make use of the Microsoft Exchange platform.
Unfortunately, this does not make it easy for new converts to WM, particularly those who do not use Outlook as their main PIM (personal information management) tool or who don't even use Windows on their desktops. Microsoft does not provide a solution out-of-the-box and it's certainly not wise to have important personal information residing on only the phone without being backed up elsewhere. Fret not. Whether you are using Google Calendar/Contacts or OS X's iCal/Address Book, there are free syncing alternatives out there for the Outlook-challenged.
Google Sync
This solution from the search giant uses the Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync protocol available on all WM devices. This means there's nothing for you to install on either your phone or desktop computer. Configuring it is as simple as keying a few settings into the ActiveSync application on your mobile device and tapping Sync. This will then replicate your Contacts list in your Gmail account and your Google Calendar on your WM-based PDA or smartphone.
Key points: Makes use of your existing Google account; dead simple setup; no third-party applications required.
Link: Google Sync page for Windows Mobile
FinchSync
If you are using the open-source Thunderbird application for PIM, FinchSync lets you synchronize your desktop and device data with a bit of work. This Java-based application works in Windows, Linux and OS X, so you don't have to worry about compatibility on your desktop. You have to install a client on the same computer your Thunderbird is on, and another app on your WM device. Configuring it will take a bit of work as FinchSync doesn't use the already present ActiveSync protocol on your device. It may not be the simplest of solutions, but the FinchSync Web site also has a forum where you can seek advice from other users.
Key points: Syncs with your Thunderbird desktop software; Java-based client makes it suitable for all desktop operating systems; requires a third-party app for the device; will take some time to set up properly.
Link: FinchSync product page
Eltima SyncMate
Apple users have had The Missing Sync to connect their WM devices to OS X's iCal and Address Book for the longest time. The problem with this solution is that it costs US$40. Eltima Software has a solution called SyncMate which does a similar job for free. Getting this to work involves downloading the application to your Mac and installing it. Thereafter, you connect your WM device to the computer and a small application will be installed on your PDA or smartphone. From there, you can simply choose which component to sync, which is essentially just the contacts and calendar. In our experience with it, not every single WM phone we tried worked. It's still worth giving it a shot if you don't want to put down US$40 for The Missing Sync.
Key points: Syncs with iCal and Address Book on OS X; simple step-by-step interface; did not work with some devices in our tests.
Link: Eltima SyncMate product page
Microsoft MyPhone
This online service is Microsoft's solution to WM's dependency on Outlook. Instead of syncing to a PIM tool on a computer, MyPhone gives you 200MB storage online to back up your data. This solution requires you to download and install a client on your WM device, which will communicate with your personal online space hosted by Microsoft. The nifty thing about this method is that aside from your contacts and calendar, other kinds of data such as text messages, tasks and even photos can be synchronized. The bad news is that this is still in a closed beta mode, so you can only sign up on the waitlist and hope to get on it soon. It was announced together with WM6.5 earlier this year, but will also be made available to all WM6 and 6.1 users for free.
Key points: Syncs with online storage provided by Microsoft; syncs more than just your calendar and contacts; not widely available currently; requires a Windows Live account.
Link: Microsoft My Phone page
Editors' note:
This guide aims to provide information for those who wish to sync their WM devices without Microsoft Outlook. CNET Asia shall not be held responsible for loss or damage of data that may occur by using the software mentioned.
The links provided in this guide may bring you to Web sites which are not under the control and responsibility of CNET Asia. The inclusion of said links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
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