Microsoft strengthens CE with STNC buy

NEWS Microsoft has acquired UK telecommunications software developer, STNC, to boost mobile access to its Windows CE platform. Sussex-based STNC, which has 40 employees, specialises in developing mobile phone applications such as access to email, calendars, contacts and the Internet. Microsoft is pitching its Windows CE operating system as the platform of choice for cellular phones, rivalling industry consortium, Symbian. Symbian's Paul Cockerton commented: "STNC is a good company with about 20 software developers, but they specialise in Web browsing technology, which is increasingly being replaced by the Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) on the mobile phone platform." STNC will become part of Microsoft's Productivity Appliances Division, and its technology will be integrated into Windows CE and Microsoft's microbrowser technology. Financial details of the take-over were not disclosed.