Technology News: Handheld Devices: Microsoft Opens Windows to BlackBerry

Microsoft is expanding its presence on mobile devices with a new deal that will provide Hotmail and other Windows Live services to BlackBerry users. The offerings will be available on the Bold -- Research In Motion's new "iPhone killer" -- as well as other BlackBerry models.

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Web-based e-mail and instant messaging services from Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) are set to arrive on BlackBerry mobile devices later this summer.

The new BlackBerry Bold, along with phones in the BlackBerry 7000 and 8000 ranges, will be the first to ship with Windows Live services, which include Hotmail and Windows Live Messenger.

Single Sign-on

Users will also be able to download the services onto existing BlackBerry handsets.

Customers will access their Windows Live Hotmail and Windows Live Messenger account from directly from their smartphone by entering their Windows Live email address and password once.

"Over 430 million people around the world rely on Windows Live to stay in touch," said Brian Arbogast, vice president of the Mobile Services organisation at Microsoft.

"Our collaboration with RIM will enable BlackBerry smartphone customers to take full advantage of Windows Live at work or on the go."

Microsoft's Mobile Offensive

This is the third major distribution deal Microsoft has done for Hotmail and Messenger on mobile phone platforms.

Last year, the Nokia (NYSE: NOK) Series 60 devices joined Windows Mobile phones in offering the consumer e-mail and instant messaging services.

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