If You Would Like a x64 Notes Client on Windows, Read This
Bill Malchisky February 3 2014 02:25:39 PM
Update: For those that observed the Mail Next demo at IC14 (which boasts a Domino back-end), one could extrapolate that the Notes client's days may be numbered -- but admittedly no such indication was hinted. Either way, the massive installation base will not disappear overnight and those users will need updates. After what I learned at IC14 and knowing that many people have asked for this client permutation over the years, I thought I would take a survey if you will, as there is an available window if still important to you or your customers.Update 2: Christian commented below on SPR # GHAT8ERK8X for this issue, along with a Customer Report with APAR LO59080. Again, if of interest, you can attach your support there too.
While at IBM Connect 2014, I heard that a prototype x64 Windows Notes client is in the works -- rumor perhaps, but it is intriguing. I also know that unless there is a business justification, IBM will spend development and testing dollars elsewhere -- which also makes sense and is prudent. There are lots of internal prototypes at any ISV/OEM, few of which see the light of day. What their respective clients want and need ultimately moves any subset of prototypes towards a production release: customer input drives business decisions.
Three Cases Where Needs Drove Product Development
Successful business justification examples include the following three cases:
1. Domino went to x64 because of increased memory needs on bigger servers
2. Apple is pulling the i386 JVM in OS X, so future IBM Notes clients will be x64 (out of necessity)
3. Traveler went to x64 as it utilizes 1 thread/connection and can only scale with additional address space
Being Heard
Therefore, if you feel a Windows x64 client is important to you or your business, here is what you can do:
1. Contact your support account manager, ICS liaison, or ICS sales rep to provide input
2. Send the request to me via e-mail, Skype, or DM
3. Comment on this blog post with your thoughts and justification
I will catalogue any entries provided to me, while providing your feedback to development and track such requests. There is openness within development currently, but it will only happen if customers need it, as opposed to wanting it 'just because'.
In the end, all products will need to move to an x64 format as in 2038, you'll only be able to run i386 compiled programs within a complex emulator. Between now and then, how fast any one product moves to x64 is up to you and your business needs. If this is important to you, be heard.
Note: I personally have no interest either way, but am willing to be a focal point for the community if people still think this client flavor is important.
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