Microsoft Corp. has unveiled its BizTalk RFID (radio frequency identification) Mobile, a platform supporting the delivery of real-time business information from a variety of mobile devices. The technology addresses a number of scenarios, including a dockworker verifying a shipment, and a pharmacist ensuring that the right medicine has been stocked. Microsoft has made available a private beta version of the platform, with general availability expected late in 2008. When used with BizTalk Server 2006 R2, BizTalk RFID Mobile extends to Windows CE and Windows Mobile 5.0 applications. BizTalk Server 2006 R2, Microsoft's core technology for service-oriented architecture (SOA) and business-process management, became generally available last September. It included a number of advances for fixed RFID readers, in such areas as data filtering and business rules, and electronic data interchange. Microsoft also announced the BizTalk RFID Standards Pack, allowing customers to integrate their RFID systems with global standards ratified under the Electronic Product Code (EPC).
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