Optus has launched Wireless Email - a new service giving business customers real time access to Microsoft Exchange email, calendar and contact information from a WAP or GPRS capable handset, personal data assistant or laptop.

Finola Thompson, Director Mobile Internet & Data, Optus said wireless business is booming as people are increasingly exchanging information while on the move.

"Email has proven to be the killer application of the internet, and has always been the most popular service used by our customers on Optus" WAP service - Optus Networker.

"The average business executive spends around two hours a day using their email. So it is important for business people to be able to access their email quickly and easily," she said.

"We are now giving our business customers the ability to share even more information by linking it with one of most popular brands of business software on the market.

"Optus Wireless Email lets you update your diary, handle your email and calendar in real-time. No duplication. No synchronisation required.

"With office mobility it makes it easier for staff to be in contact anywhere at anytime from hotels to taxis and airports," said Ms Thompson.

"It allows business people who are 'on the road' to use their idle time between appointments to keep up to date with their email.

"You can look up customer enquiries on the spot. Confirm a diary appointment right there and then," she said.

Ms Thompson said that up until now, the integration of common business software into a wireless mobile environment has been problematic.

"We are breaking down the barriers to the true mobile office by making it simpler for customers to view the data they want, how they want it, where they want it."

Optus is using US software company, Wireless Knowledge's Workstyle Server wireless collaboration application to translate "big screen" information into a format that can be read on a variety of smaller devices.

Wireless Email is available using either GSM or General Packet Radio Service technology from WAP or HTML browser equipped handsets or personal data assistant.

For more information:
Louise Ingram
Cable & Wireless Optus
Tel: 02 9342 5042