RIM battler NTP has signed a licensing agreement with Visto that will assure mobile data fiends of a "viable alternative" to the popular Blackberry device.

Under the terms of the deal, Visto has gained access to NTP's patented methods for sending and receiving wireless data, while NTP has taken an equity stake in Visto. The NTP IP is meant to complement Visto's existing mobile data software. Of course, the deal between the two firms also paves the way for a couple shots against RIM, which remains embroiled in a patent conflict with NTP.

"Users of Visto Mobile can be assured of access to mobile email and data as they are licensed to use NTP's intellectual property," said Donald Stout, a NTP co-founder. "We are excited about our ownership stake in Visto's future."

Visto's CEO Brian Bogosian was more direct.

"Mobile users now know that Visto provides a safe and secure harbor that today Blackberry cannot offer its own customers," he said.

The popularity of RIM's Blackberry device needs little detailing here. Many Blackberry users, however, remain concerned about the immediate future of their precious communicator with NTP apparently rejecting RIM's latest offer to settle their legal war.

RIM had once offered a $450m settlement, but the deal crumbled, and the two companies have since continued to battle in the courts. ®