Apple Computer is refining a strategy for connecting cell phones and other portable devices to its Macintosh systems in an effort to boost sales.
But a rival endeavor from Microsoft, expected to be unveiled early next year, could dim the company"s hopes, analysts said.
Cupertino, Calif.-based Apple is nearing the end of a long testing cycle for iSync, its software for synchronizing information between Macs, Bluetooth-enabled cell phones, personal digital assistants or the company"s iPod music player.
The software, due for release early next year and currently available in a beta version, lets consumers and business users input data once and replicate it to many different devices.