Integrating Android Devices with Microsoft Exchange

The Synergy Between Android and Microsoft Exchange

The Android operating system, developed by the Open Handset Alliance, has revolutionized the mobile device industry. A plethora of devices, including smartphones, netbooks, and tablets, have been built on this versatile platform. The Android app marketplace is continuously growing, offering a wide range of applications for personal and professional use. One of the key features of Android devices is their ability to effortlessly synchronize with Microsoft Exchange Server, providing users with constant access to their Outlook emails, notes, calendars, and tasks, even while traveling. This compatibility has enabled businesses to support a diverse range of mobile devices alongside Android, such as BlackBerry, Palm, Windows Mobile, and iPhone, with hosted Exchange services.

Setting Up Your Android Device with Hosted Exchange

To configure an Android mobile device with hosted Exchange, follow these steps:

1. From the Home screen, tap the Application button.
2. Select Email.
3. Tap Next.
4. Enter your Email Address and Password.
5. Tap Next again.
6. Choose Exchange account.
7. Fill in the following fields and then tap Next:
   • DomainUsername (Note: Some phones may not require the backslash before the email address. HTC Sense users should leave the Domain field empty and enter the full email address in the Username field.)
   • Password
   • Exchange Server (e.g., webmail.yourprovider.com)
   • Use secure connection SSL (Select this option)
   • Accept all SSL certificates (Select this option)
8. Choose your Account options and tap Next.
9. Finalize your settings on Set up email, then tap Done.

Evolution of the Android Platform

The Android platform has seen significant updates since its inception:

• Version 1.5: Addressed numerous bugs related to email, Bluetooth, and multimedia.
• Version 2.0: Introduced new APIs for account management, sync adapter, and Bluetooth. Improved email support for managing multiple accounts, including Google, Microsoft Exchange, and Facebook.
• Version 2.2: Featured the world's fastest browser at the time, an enhanced Android Market, and added Flash support. Improved internet connectivity through hotspot and tethering options.

With these advancements, Android has established itself as a robust option for employee communication within organizations.

Conclusion

The integration of Google Android and Microsoft Exchange Server hosting from application service providers like Apps4Rent empowers companies to expand their communication tools to include Android devices confidently. This synergy ensures that employees remain productive and connected, regardless of their location.

About the Author

Adrian Gates (adrian@apps4rent.com) is a Business Manager with Apps4Rent, which offers Microsoft Exchange Hosting, Windows SharePoint Services, SharePoint Foundation 2010, SharePoint Server 2010, and virtual dedicated servers.

Interesting stats and data about the topic are not readily available as they tend to be specific to individual service providers and their proprietary information. However, it is worth noting that as of 2021, Android holds the largest share of the mobile operating system market, with approximately 72.2% worldwide (Statista). This dominance in the market underscores the importance of Android's compatibility with enterprise solutions like Microsoft Exchange.