jancology.com

After searching the internet, it came clear that the current version of Apple iSync (1.4) does not support SyncML. SyncML is a new industry initiative to develop and promote a single, common data synchronization protocol that can be used industry-wide. When iSync was introduced by Steve Jobs’ keynote in July 2002 (see press release) it was mentioned to work with the latest devices.

“Rather than requiring a separate synchronization application for each type of device, iSync works with the latest Bluetooth mobile phones, PalmOS devices and iPod to keep all these devices up to date.”

Everyone translated this that it would use SyncML. Also in the iSync Product Overview of version 1.1 is clearly stated that it’s not supported yet.

“What is SyncML, and does iSync support it? SyncML is an open-standard synchronization protocol supported by the Open Mobile Alliance. It is based on XML and open data formats and is designed to work with everything from servers to desktop computers to mobile phones. Apple is a strong advocate of open standards and has publicly endorsed SyncML as a future direction for iSync, but iSync does not support SyncML as of this release.”

This clearly shows that there is no hope for a working synchronization between iSync and my Nokia 6230. However there is hope with Tiger. Tiger’s synchronization engine is built-in the operating system. Applications like Safari can make use of it to sync preferences.

“System-wide availability of sync services means that developers can now easily incorporate syncing capabilities into their applications. Tiger’s sync engine is extendable, so developers can go beyond synchronizing calendars, bookmarks and contact lists.”

This means that it will be very likely that a plugin can be written that seamlessly integrates with iSync and SyncML supported devices.

For the time being I’ll probably make use of BluePhoneMenu and Phone Director for the Nokia 6230.