Microsoft Lync Now Available For iPhone and iPad Users with New App

By Monica Gleberman Contributing Writer

Last month at a Lync Conference, Microsoft (News - Alert) revealed that it would soon be offering a Lync app designed for both the iPhone and iPad that would enable users to communicate in real-time. Just shy of four weeks since the announcement, the application is now available for free through the Apple (News - Alert) store.

Microsoft Lync is an enterprise-based instant messaging and VoIP client. Although there are numerous applications available, Lync has really become a staple in the corporate world because of its capability with all things Microsoft. Moving forward, the company decided it would help corporate users connect with one another on-the-go in a more seamless way through a new Lync application.

“I’m excited to share that the Windows Phone (News - Alert) app is available today and that the app for iPhone and iPad are available now,” said the Lync team in a blog post. “Lync 2013 Mobile brings a number of improvements and new features.”

Some of those features include the ability to receive VoIP and video calls from all Lync 2013 mobile apps; a desktop and application share viewing (iPad only) that lets users view content being shared by others in a Lync meeting; the ability for users to view colleagues availability in real-time and select the best way to communicate, and more.

In addition, Lync has added some user-friendly services such as call forwarding, transport layer security, one-touch connectivity and calendar; however, not every Lync user will have access to the new application. Additionally, Microsoft said that all users must have up to date devices.

"In order for Lync users to have access to the new mobile client, including the video and voice over IP features, they will need to have Lync Server 2013 or the updated Lync Online as part of their Office 365 business subscription," a Microsoft spokesperson explained to RCP Mag via e-mail.

The application is compatible with all Apple devices running iOS 6.0 or later. Although the application is free, users will only be able to take advantage of the service if they are already a paying Lync member.

Edited by Allison Boccamazzo