Verizon BlackBerry users need Data Plan Upgrade to enjoy BES Express(BESX)

At Mobile World Congress, Research In Motion announced BES Express (BESX), an entry-level version of BES for small and medium businesses for free. It seems Verizon Wireless is requiring BlackBerry Enterprise Server Express users to upgrade their data plan to a corporate email data plan or feature added to a voice plan to allow access to BESX.

Here's Training memo to VZW tech support and customer service reps, courtesy of BBLeaks:

On March 1, 2010, RIM will launch BES Express (BESX), an entry-level version of BES.As with all Corporate email solutions, customers will need a corporate email data plan or feature added to a voice plan to allow access to BESX.

Note: Customers on the Email and Web for BlackBerry $29.99 data feature MAY NOT utilize BESX.

Overview:
BESX replaces BlackBerry Professional Software (BPS) in RIM's product lineup and allows businesses using Microsoft® Exchange or Microsoft Small Business Server to support up to 75 BlackBerry subscribers without having to purchase Client Access Licenses (CAL) or a dedicated server. Additional users can be supported if BESX is installed on a dedicated server.

With the launch of BESX, RIM will discontinue the sale of BPS. Verizon Wireless will sell through our remaining BPS inventory and RIM will continue to support this solution for the foreseeable future.

Customer Information/Eligibility:
+ BESX will be available directly from the RIM website. Customers should be directed there for additional product information.
+ BESX will not be available directly from Verizon Wireless.
+ As with all Corporate email solutions, customers will need a corporate email data plan or feature added to a voice plan to allow access to BESX

Reference: Information about current pricing options is available in the Verizon Wireless Small Business Guide or on vzw.com.

See the BES Express page in InfoManager for more information.