Google Sync End of Life - Google Apps Help

tbd if Mark Penn will have something to say about this; the move hit a nerve for Paul Thurrott, who asserts "Google just declared war on Microsoft"

"Google Sync was designed to allow access to Gmail, Google Calendar, and Contacts via the Microsoft® Exchange ActiveSync® protocol. With the recent launch of CardDAV, Google now offers similar access via IMAP, CalDAV, and CardDAV, making it possible to build a seamless sync experience using open protocols. Starting January 30, 2013, consumers won't be able to set up new devices using Google Sync, however, existing Google Sync connections will continue to function. Google Sync will continue to be fully supported for Google Apps for Business, Government and Education users who are unaffected by this announcement."

Google Sync End of Life - Google Apps Help