Lync Server 2013 Clients Updated

Lync client updates, released through July 2014, deliver desktop functionality and management controls that bring clients closer to parity with the Lync 2013 desktop application. The updates introduce support for Android tablets, increase management and functionality for the Windows Store app and Mac desktop client, and include support for legacy Lync clients used in Lync hybrid deployments, helping organizations with older Lync desktop clients. The updates should promote user adoption; however, they also increase the number of end-user applications to support and encourage the use of personal devices for attending business meetings.

Lync Client Functionality Varies

In general, the Lync 2013 desktop application on Windows is the only client that can take advantage of all of Lync Server 2013’s capabilities. However, it only runs on Windows and is not designed for touch devices such as tablets, which hampers mobile use. It is also not free, which can be a barrier for some users, including those employing personal devices under “bring your own device” policies.