Sybase's mobile unit iAnywhere has released a beta that boosts its mobile app development suite

Sybase's mobile and wireless subsidiary iAnywhere has released a beta of SQL Anywhere 10, the next version of its development suite for building and deploying mobile applications that synchronise with back-end enterprise systems.

SQL Anywhere, formerly SQL Anywhere Studio, packages an enterprise-class SQL database and mobile client software with synchronisation and management tools to tie them together.

The new version has over 200 new features, including enhancements for server performance, tight integration with Microsoft's Visual Studio 2005, and added support for Symbian-based client devices, according to iAnywhere.

Among the latest improvements are graphical administration tools for architecture setup and deployment, expanded enterprise integration options, and mobile web services.

Previous releases of SQL Anywhere supported Windows Mobile, Palm OS, and Java-enabled devices through a mobile component called Ultralight. The new version expands support to Symbian-based handsets for the first time. Windows laptops are also supported as mobile clients.

Performance improvements to the database server include parallel backups and additional indexing methods. Data protection has also been strengthened, with built-in high-availability and robust data security features, according to iAnywhere.

Developers can register to download the beta of SQL Anywhere 10 at the link below. The final version of the product is expected to ship in July.