Lync 2013 Previewed

New versions of the Lync unified communications line of software and online services will probably appear in the first half of 2013. The new versions promise to improve conferencing (especially on devices that won’t run Lync client software), ease configuration of maintenance of server installations, and help enforce data retention policies for archived Lync content. Better mobile clients and integration with the popular Skype communication service are also planned with release of the new versions, but are not available in previews released in July 2012.

Presence and Real-Time Communications: Lync and Skype

The Lync software enables users to view and publish presence status (for example, online, busy, or away) and initiate communications sessions that include IM, voice, video, and application sharing. The software also enables Web conferences, structured online meetings that typically include a synchronized PowerPoint presentation and an audio feed to attendees. “Enterprise voice” capabilities enable Lync installations to integrate with or replace on-premises private branch exchange (PBX) telephone networks. Microsoft hosts Lync Online, a component of Office 365 service plans that offers presence, IM, and conferencing but not enterprise voice. Microsoft’s primary competitors in the unified communications arena are Avaya, Cisco, and IBM.