[citation][nom]sinfocomar[/nom]You can sync, backup and upgrade your Blackberry completely with Outlook or other PIMs with the Blackberry Desktop Software (free).[/citation]
It doesn't sync over the air though--at least not with Exchange, without BES. The now discontinued redirector sucks as well, since it doesn't really sync the emails, it just forwards them and forces you to leave your PC running. Not to mention there's no way to force security options from the domain policy, or even to initiate a remote wipe if the phone is stolen.
[citation]Blackberry Enterprise Server for Exchange and Lotus Notes (Domino) is free for 50 users or less. [/citation]
Umm...
no it isn't. Where did you find that info?
Speaking of, EVERYONE ELSE supports Activesync. This issue alone is destroying BB's usage in the business world. Why any IT department would decide to waste storage space, server resources, and throw money at a platform that is completely unnecessary is beyond me. Back in the day BB's were leading the charge for business apps and compatibility, but their methods are now antiquated and unnecessary.
[citation]I'm a huge fan of Blackberries and excited as hell of the new stuff QNX's acquisition will bring to the platform. The Android app support anouncement can only sweeten the deal. It'll bring the best of both worlds and maybe will pave the way for a future merger between both platforms.[/citation]
I agree that supporting Android apps is a smart move on their part. However, I don't see any reason to pick Blackberry devices over Android devices, except maybe personal preference for RIM's UI.
I realize this sounds like a bash-fest, but I don't mean it that way. I'm only wondering--what makes RIM so attractive now that so many others have surpassed them?