BEFORE VERSION 3.5 had even reached the shelves, CE Software (800-523-7638 or 515-221-1801) released a road map for the future development of QuickMail. Contrary to usual industry practice, CE has announced specifics about versions 3.7 and 4.0, both of which are expected to ship during the next 12 months.
QuickMail 3.7 broadens links to the outside world. Telecommunications server software, separate from QuickMail's existing server software, will allow multiple simultaneous modem connections to a QuickMail server. It will also support TCP/IP connections to the QuickMail server via MacTCP and the Communications Toolbox. The telecom implementation will be modular, allowing support for new connection technology (wireless, ISDN, and so on) in the future.
At the client end of the remote connections, QuickMail will support off-line message creation and storage, allowing a traveler to respond to mail while disconnected from the server. QuickMail client software will also include its own dial-in implementation. Currently, remote users must rely on Apple Remote Access or QuickMail's outdated QM Remote to make connections.
Other additions to version 3.7 will include data compression and the ability to enclose entire folders of files with a mail message.
Details of version 4.0 are still sketchy, but CE has announced plans to upgrade server-administration features. The QuickMail road map promises mail-management and mail-measurement tools, which will allow administrators to analyze and control mail usage. Servers running version 4.0 will support multiple public folders. Also in the works is an overhaul of the current QuickMail forms application.
CE has not announced pricing for new purchases of QuickMail versions beyond 3.5, but for those who purchased QuickMail before September 15, the company will offer free upgrades to version 3.7.
