McAfee, Symantec exploring iPhone software
updated 11:50 am EDT, Mon May 18, 2009
McAfee, Symantec on iPhone
Both McAfee and Symantec have confirmed work on iPhone-related software, according to Reuters. McAfee says it is specifically working on new security programs, described as part of a "comprehensive suite for the Apple family," including its usual Mac focus. Though the company has declined to provide specific details, including even a release timeframe, it is best-known for anti-virus software, and was last year spotted working on an iPhone app called iVirusScan.
Symantec says it is working on a backup service, which would allow the duplication of data kept on an iPhone in case of loss or damage. Users would also have remote access to content from their computer, or else a website, the company explains. The service could represent a form of competition for Apple's MobileMe, although the latter includes functions like e-mail and device sync.
well
05/18, 12:09pm reply
I could see the point of this to sell to Apple to help scan before releasing the apps. But since Apple's a one-stop shop, after that no one should need it.
Oh, and can you imagine what those apps would do to your battery life?????
testudo
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Aug 2001
Ugh, Symantec????
05/18, 12:18pm reply
"Want to slow your iPhone down to a crawl with poorly-written, bloated junkware and kill its battery life? There's an app for that."
phillymjs
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jun 2000
make some viruses first
05/18, 01:00pm reply
WTF. My computer has been free of Symantec junk for over ten years. Why now?
Maybe they need to produce some iPod/iPhone viruses first.
Paul Huang
Forum Regular
Joined: Sep 1999
BS
05/18, 01:15pm reply
Symantec and McAfee will probably write and release the first iPhone virus just to sell their crappy warez.
JeffHarris
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Oct 1999
AV scam on handhelds
05/18, 03:00pm reply
They tried pulling this scam, antivirus software with no viruses, on Palm, Pocket PC, Windows Mobile, and I'm sure they'll have pointless system-crippling products that just increase the likelihood of data loss and corruption on the iPhone as well.
No mechanism for secondary infection, no viruses, period.
resuna
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jan 2005