GE Security, a business of GE Enterprise Solutions, has announced the availability of a new version of its wireless eKEY. This newest version enables full lockbox functionality for BlackBerry (News - Alert) smartphones from Research In Motion (RIM).

 

eKEY will be available in two editions, eKEY Basic and eKEY Professional. Both the editions allow real estate agents to access, manage, and search listed properties. All this can be done using BlackBerry smart phones.

 

Comparing this latest offering from GE Security with other solutions, Ansbro, a REALTOR with Keller Williams in Portland, Oregonm, said all the other alternatives are “larger” and “bulkier” to use, and called eKEY, “simple.”

 

Noting that mobile technology is an important tool in today’s “challenging” marketplace, Ron Virden, general manager for key control business at GE Security, said the BlackBerry eKEY can provide real estate professionals with a “distinct competitive advantage.”

 

“We know that many of our customers are BlackBerry users and this is a great way to help them further increase productivity,” he added.

 

eKEY Basic allows agents to open lockboxes. In addition, agents can receive real-time notifications and view reports using their GE Security Supra-certified BlackBerry smart phones.

 

The advanced version, eKEY Professional, includes the ability to search multiple listing service (MLS) data and view a complete range of searchable criteria. Moreover, eKEY Professional provides access to updated MLS listings, agent roster information.

 

Additionally, the professional version offers real-time showing reports, customizable searches which can be saved to the phone, mapping and other Web-based competitive intelligence.

 

Initially, GE Security has certified three Blackberry smartphones—Blackberry Curve, Blackberry Pearl, and Blackberry 8800—as compatible with its eKey for Blackberry solution.

 

Company said that additional smartphones scheduled for release will be tested for certification by GE Security.

 

By mid-December 2008, the eKEY Basic version is expected to be available, while company said that it plans to launch eKEY Professional next year in spring.

 

The company also announced that it has manufactured its 25 millionth Supra lockbox for the real estate industry since the first lockbox was produced more than 40 years ago.