Partners Cheer Microsoft's Polished Multiplatform Outlook Apps

Microsoft has given its Outlook versions on the iOS and Android platforms a face-lift, buttressing its two-week-old productivity app portfolio across multiple systems in the mobile space.

Partners applauded the Redmond, Wash.-based company's emphasis on strengthening its email, calendar and contacts app collection across competing mobile platforms, saying the move promotes interoperability for clients.

"As a partner, this allows me to flow with the stream, as opposed to paddling against the stream," said Michael Goldstein, president and CEO of LAN Infotech, a Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based Microsoft partner. "Many people use Windows in their businesses, but then go home and use their own personal Android devices. This is the perfect way of Microsoft handling that situation and making it easier for clients to switch between the two platforms. It shows how flexible Microsoft has become."

[Related: Microsoft Offers iCloud Support For Office Services]

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Microsoft outlined a variety of security-based upgrades to its newest Outlook version, including new IT controls like Exchange ActiveSync-controlled PIN locks to enforce data protection for both Android and iOS devices, as well as quicker remote app-wipe execution controls.

On the productivity side, the software company's upgrade enabled Outlook to sync mail from email providers supporting email storage system IMAP, such as AOL.com and Comcast.net. It also reshuffled the Toggle conversation view for iOS, and customized swipe gestures on Android.

Goldstein applauded Microsoft's efficiency in upgrading its array of end-user tools on Outlook for iOS and Android devices.

"It's good marketing," he said. "Microsoft didn't just give us Outlook, but it has incorporated cool, little features to the app, like email notifications and filtering tools. It's been easy for end users to transition as well."

Outlook is a rebranded version of Acompli, a San Francisco-based email app startup that Microsoft purchased in December to increase its presence on iOS and Android platforms.

Partners stressed that Microsoft, once shy in its presence on multiple cloud platforms, is now ramping up its efforts to offer services on various cloud and operating system platforms, as a method to enhance user flexibility. The company also unveiled the integration of its Office apps with Apple's cloud platform, iCloud, this week.

Ric Opal, vice president at Peters & Associates, a Microsoft partner in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., said the company's efforts to sustain its apps on different cloud platforms complements a trend toward the Internet of Things that many companies are embracing.

"To me, what is great is not only Microsoft's willingness to embrace Outlook and get into the game, but also the speed of its integration," he said. "As a partner, the more experience I'm able to offer clients for their devices, the better position I'm in. At the back end, all of my security authentication and mobile management is centered."

According to Microsoft, in the coming months the company will deliver additional security, management and user-focused features, such as support for Microsoft Intune mobile device management and support of contact syncing.

The company also will focus on moving Outlook's cloud service from Amazon Web Service to Microsoft Azure, according to Microsoft.

PUBLISHED FEB. 19, 2015