Microsoft to open Outlook data format

Microsoft will open up the data specifications for the PST file format used by its popular Microsoft Outlook email software. In a blog entry, Microsoft group manager Paul Lorimer wrote that such a move will "allow developers to read, create, and interoperate with the data in .pst files in server and client scenarios using the programming language and platform of their choice."

For those just raring for a look at it now, the promised documentation is unfortunately still in the "early stages." However, Microsoft promised that it will eventually be released under Microsoft's Open Specification Promise. According to Microsoft, this means that "anyone" will be able to freely implement the format on any platform without having to seek permission or to even inform the company.

For more on this story:
- check out this article at CNET News

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