Sybase has plans for advanced spatial data functionality in the next release of its SQL Anywhere database.
The technology enables the development of spatial applications for smartphones and the synchronization of “on-device spatial data with spatial databases, application servers and enterprise systems.” Sybase is previewing the product at the ESRI Worldwide Business Partner Conference, held March 21 to 23 in Palm Springs, Calif.
Organizations can use the new capabilities to “provide field workers with access to detailed spatial information combined with business-critical data in a robust and scalable way,” the company said in a news release March 22.
“We expect the Spatial Information Management market to continue to grow at a healthy, compound annual rate over the next several years,” David Sonnen, a Spatial Information Management consultant for IDC, said in a statement. “Spatially enabled Sybase SQL Anywhere addresses the occasionally connected environment gap that exists in the spatial market today.”
The device will support the use of spatial data on all SQL Anywhere-supported platforms, including Linux, Windows, BlackBerry, Apple iPhone and Windows Mobile. In addition, there is “native import for shape files and built-in functions to export to KML, GML and SVG formats … bidirectional synchronization of spatial and standard data between [mobile workers] and many popular enterprise systems,” and support for OGC (Open Geospatial Consortium) and SQL/MM (SQL Multimedia) standards for spatial data types and APIs.
“Geospatial information capabilities continue to become more pervasive within the enterprise mobility space because of their profound impact on field worker productivity,” Sybase Product Manager Jason Hinsperger told eWEEK. “Soon, most mobile enterprise applications will all include a spatial element.”
The product is slated to be available in the second half of 2010. To apply to participate in the company’s beta program, click here.
Editor’s Note: This story was updated with information from Sybase.
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