February 23, 2007 – (HOSTSEARCH.COM) – Google has introduced the Apps Premier Edition (http://www.google.com/a/), a service which many analysts believe could represent a challenge to Microsoft’s desktop dominance. The service is ideal for small- to medium-sized companies that would be able to forfeit elegance for increased convenience.
Google Apps Premier Edition is available for $50 per year and offers integration with Google Docs and Spreadsheets, Gmail integration with BlackBerry mobile devices, integration with Google Calendar and Google Talk accounts, a customizable ‘Start Page’ and enhanced email options, including 10GB of storage space. These functions receive 24/7 email and phone support and the promise of “99.9% uptime”. Unlike the free version of the service, Apps Premier Edition is ad free (although ads are optional) and no additional hardware or software installation is required. According to Google, around 100,000 businesses and universities use their Google Apps Standard Edition.
"Businesses are looking for applications that are simple and intuitive for employees, but also offer the security, reliability and manageability their organizations require," explained Google Enterprise’s Vice President and General Manager, Mr. Dave Girouard. "With Google Apps, our customers can tap into an unprecedented stream of technology and innovation at a fraction of the cost of traditional installed solutions."
A number of Google’s partners, including Avaya and Postini, are developing a range of applications for Google Apps Premier Edition. These will include “email gateways, enhanced security, Google Calendar synchronization, third-party integration with Google Talk, as well as offering deployment, migration, and additional support services”.
