Box announces Windows Phone app and Qualcomm partnership

ENTERPRISE STORAGE FIRM Box has announced the launch of a Windows Phone app, along with a partnership with chip designer Qualcomm.

Box offers a service similar to Dropbox and Google Docs but with additional security tools giving enterprises more control over staff access to data. From today, Box can now be accessed via a Windows Phone device, which enables users to collaborate and share essential content from any location.

The Windows Phone app will also take advantage of Microsoft's unique Live Tile interface to provide information on updates by colleagues on shared documents.

Box CEO Aaron Levie explained to The INQUIRER that the company worked closely with Microsoft to develop the app, hinting that future Windows Phone features could be in the pipeline.

"We tend to wait to see if there's traction for a platform before developing for it and we're certainly starting to see take-up for Windows Phone now and there's certainly going to be more growth in the platform," he said.

"We've got a strong working relationship with Microsoft now and Windows 8 will be a significant development in the on going use of collaboration and tools for content as more tablets enter the enterprise."

Not content with launching a Windows Phone app, Box also announced that is has joined forces with Qualcomm, a partnership that will allow handset makers using the chip firm's Snapdragon processors to offer 50GB of free cloud storage on the Box service via pre-loaded apps on devices.

"Qualcomm and Box are working together to deliver individuals and businesses around the world with smart tools and services that simplify sharing and collaboration on Snapdragon-based devices," said Rob Chandhok, SVP of software strategy for Qualcomm and president of Qualcomm Internet Services.

"We are committed to providing our qualified partners with amazing incentives that deliver a best-in-class end-user experience."

Box for Windows Phone is available to dowload for free from the Windows Phone Marketplace. µ