The big new last week from Apple was that, suddenly, the iPhone is set to become a much more viable option for business users.

Last Thursday, Apple previewed its iPhone 2.0 software, which features support for Microsoft’s Active Sync protocol, allowing workers to sync their device with a company's Exchange e-mail, contacts and calendar programs. The software update will also feature improved security features, most notably Cisco VPN support and the ability to remotely wipe data on lost or stolen iPhones.

Over at Bank Systems & Technology, my colleague Maria Bruno-Britz wonders how the iPhone might now compete with the Blackberry for business users.

from the BS&T Blog:

The iPhone is certainly pretty, but it's also chock full of handy features in a fun, intuitive interface. I know from personal experience the differences in navigating an iPhone (in my case, an iPod Touch) versus a Blackberry (my husband's). The Blackberry certainly does what it's supposed to do, but there's just something about the iPhone interface that takes the user experience to the next level.

Indeed, few understand the intricacies of user experience better than Apple, and with this latest, business-friendly software update, the iPhone is certain to grow in popularity from an enterprise point-of-view. I am especially impressed with the remote wiping capability -- something I believe to be a key mobile security feature for insurers going forward.

And yet, I wonder -- for all of the iPhone’s wonderful features and functions -- if Apple will have trouble attracting more than just Apple enthusiasts and the most tech-savvy business users. Sometimes, it’s the simplest and most obvious things that are overlooked...

As Yahoo! Tech blogger Ben Patterson pointed out, “Of course, the iPhone still lacks a physical QWERTY keypad, which will give many enterprise users -- especially those who love cranking out messages with their thumbs -- a moment of pause.”

This is a public forum. CMP Media and its affiliates are not responsible for and do not control what is posted herein. CMP Media makes no warranties or guarantees concerning any advice dispensed by its staff members or readers.

Community standards in the message center do not permit hate language, excessive profanity, or other patently offensive language. Please be aware that all information posted to this forum becomes the property of CMP Media LLC and may be edited and republished in print or electronic format as outlined in CMP Media's Terms of Service.

Important Note: The Message Center is NOT intended for commercial messages or solicitations of business.