Why sync.blue® is the ideal complement or replacement for ActiveSync
Microsoft ActiveSync uses the Exchange ActiveSync (EAS) protocol and synchronizes contact data to mobile devices on a client-controlled basis – but only in a mailbox-centric 1:1 model. This approach is device-dependent and quickly reaches its limits in terms of control, security, and scalability in larger or heterogeneous environments.
However, companies need centrally controlled, secure, and scalable contact provisioning across multiple systems, users, and mailboxes.
sync.blue® meets precisely these requirements: as a smart alternative to ActiveSync contact synchronization for mobile devices or as a powerful addition for scalable 1:N distribution across multiple users, devices, and target systems.
The possible applications of sync.blue®
1: sync.blue® as an alternative to ActiveSync contact synchronization
Modern, server-side contact synchronization for mobile devices
ActiveSync provides contacts via the Exchange ActiveSync (EAS) protocol – a client-driven approach in which contact updates depend on device parameters, operating system behavior, battery saving settings, and synchronization intervals.
In larger or heterogeneous environments, this often leads to delays, inconsistent data, or unstable contact lists.
sync.blue® relies instead on CardDAV-based sync.blue® MOBILE Storage – contact-optimized, stable, and independent of device behavior.
Advantages of MOBILE Storage:
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Zero-touch provisioning
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Fast, incremental updates
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Available offline
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Read-only GAL contacts
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Compatible with MDM systems (Intune, Jamf, etc.)
2: sync.blue® as a supplement to ActiveSync for distribution to multiple users
A company address book for many users and devices simultaneously
ActiveSync always synchronizes contact data in a 1:1 model:
one user – one mailbox – one device.
This is a problem for large companies because central contact sources cannot be distributed uniformly to many users – resulting in inconsistent data sets and increased administrative effort.
sync.blue® complements ActiveSync by providing contacts centrally to multiple users and devices simultaneously. For example, a Microsoft GAL can be distributed quickly and easily to many mailboxes.
Typical enterprise scenario: The GAL is synchronized to multiple mailboxes via sync.blue® and then automatically delivered to employees' mobile devices via ActiveSync.
ActiveSync remains active – but the contact data no longer comes from individual mailboxes, but from a centrally controlled, consistent source via sync.blue®.
Why more and more companies are using sync.blue®
Reliable contact synchronization
sync.blue® ensures that Exchange contacts, GAL entries, and other company address books are automatically and reliably delivered to mailboxes and the native address books of mobile devices such as iOS and Android. Your team always has the latest contact information at their fingertips.
First-class security & GDPR compliance
sync.blue® processes data exclusively in highly secure, ISO 27001-certified data centers, using state-of-the-art encryption and GDPR compliance. This enables maximum data security in global use.
Modern technologies for mobile stability
sync.blue® relies on mobile-optimized mechanisms such as CardDAV to bring contacts to devices in a clean and clearly structured manner. This keeps contact data on smartphones stable and up to date – even with large amounts of data.
Central control instead of manual device configuration
All contacts are centrally controlled, filtered, and distributed. Users don't have to set anything up, and IT teams retain complete control over which contacts end up on which devices, ideal for BYOD and MDM (e.g., Intune, Jamf, etc.).
More contact sources than just Exchange
Where Exchange is just one system, sync.blue® supports more than 80 other platforms. This allows companies to integrate additional internal or external contact sources and make them consistently available on mobile devices.
Caller identification thanks to consistent contact data
A centrally maintained company address book and rapid updates provide users with better and more reliable caller identification – even for GAL contacts, function-related accounts, CRM contacts, or Teams groups.
Scalable for global teams and complex infrastructures
sync.blue® is suitable for companies of all sizes, regardless of Exchange setup, device mix, or globally distributed teams. The platform adapts to any environment – without additional installations or complex device setup.
Practical use cases for Exchange Sync
Government agencies, offices, and public institutions
A central address book for many employees at the same time (1: multiple users)
Government agencies work with large teams, multiple organizational units, and frequently changing roles.
sync.blue® enables central provision for many users at the same time: a source such as the GAL is synchronized to multiple mailboxes so that all employees receive a uniform, up-to-date service address book on their mobile devices.
Advantage: New colleagues, changed responsibilities, or department changes are immediately visible everywhere—without manual maintenance and without data breaches.
Trusted by our users
Join our satisfied customers who trust sync.blue® for their contact synchronization needs.
How contact synchronization works with sync.blue®
Create a free sync.blue® account. ⚙️
Link source and destination from over 80 apps.
Provide your team with the contacts - done! 🎉
