Technology Simplified

Apple will release its server OS version with Snow Leopard desktop version in September 2009. Following are the new features of Snow Leopard Server system.
1. iCal Server 2: This will allow easy sharing of calendars, schedules, meetings and coordination of events. It now offers “Push Notifications” which will notify colleagues wherever there is a new invitation or changes to existing meetings/schedules. It also allows external entities who do not use iCal, iCal Server 2 to be invited to meetings through emails. They can open these invites through an attachment, irrespective of the platform (Mac/PC). It also includes a web-based calendar that allows users to check their schedule, etc on the move. It also allows integration of iPhone into the system to remotely access calendars.

2. Podcast Producer 2: This is an ideal tool for publishing and distributing high quality podcasts. This is ideal for training, lectures, presentations, etc. Snow Leopard Server adds 2 new features to existing Podcast Producer: Dual Source Capturing & Web Capture. The earlier allows you to create PiP (picture in picture) and latter allows you to capture video through remote cameras and microphones.
Upon completion of Podcast, it automatically publishes the content in selected format, which is customizable for viewing the podcast on Apple TV, iPod, Mac or PC.

3. Quick Look (Wiki Server2): This is one of the most powerful features on Snow Leopard Server. It allows you to view an uploaded document without the need of downloading it. It supports standard file formats including text, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Pages, Numbers, Keynote, etc. A new feature, “Quick Search” allows users to search information in wikis, blogs, mailing lists, calendars and podcasts also.

4. Address Book Server: The new address book server uses a new protocol standard called CardDAV, which allows storage of contacts outside the LDAP directory. The contact management is handled by this application. Users can give access to their address books to others also.

5. Mobile Access Server: With this, users can set up and manage secure remote access to corporate network. It allows always on connection from any part of the world without the need of setting up a VPN. This is done through internet and allows access to intranet sites, emails, contacts, etc. It supports HTTP/HTTPS, IMAP and SMTP. This is completely secure through encrypting data transmission and authentication of communications.

For more information, go to the Apple Snow Leopard Server site.