Helios has released the Helios UB2 server, a new version of the bundle of modular file, print, and preprint services. Helios UB2 can run on Mac, Windows, and Unix server hosts for serving Mac, Windows, and Unix clients. The new version updated its AFP server module, called EtherShare, for compatibility with Lion clients. Mac users can now quickly search the server with Spotlight without creating a lot of traffic between server and client. Windows and Web and iOS clients can also search, by file name, text content, and meta data, when the server is running the SMB module (PCShare) and WebDAV module (WebShare).

WebShare UB2 improves support for iPad, iPhone and other mobile devices, enabling devices to open PDFs, movies, and other files within the web browser. Mac, Windows, and Linux/Unix clients can now preview Microsoft Office and PDF files without downloading them from the server. AFP and SMB file service also has performance enhancements in the new version, and a new PDC authentication system has been added.

Helios UB2 adds support for additional server platforms, including Mac OS X 7 Lion (client and server), Red Hat Enterprise Linux 6, and Oracle Solaris 11. As with previous versions, Helios UB2 server is also available for Mac OS X 10.6 (client or server), Unix, and Windows hosts.

The update is free for owners with a current service contract.

If you've used Helios UB2 or earlier versions what you think.