Mobile operating systems and devices
IT teams should evaluate mobile platforms to determine the right one to deliver to a mobile workforce. Learn about the most popular mobile operating systems in the market and how to implement them successfully.
Top Stories
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Tip
25 Oct 2024
Top 7 mobile device management tools to consider
From device security controls to onboarding features, MDM tools offer a wide range of capabilities. IT teams should explore the options to find the software that fits their needs. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Sep 2024
Should you consider open source mobile device management?
Determine whether the open source route is best when it comes to managing mobile devices. To start, weigh the pros and cons, and then evaluate the market. Continue Reading
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News
28 Apr 2021
New iPhone privacy settings to hurt small business bottom lines
Small businesses said revenue could drop by as much as 30% because of recent changes Apple made in the iPhone privacy settings. Companies worry they won't reach customers online. Continue Reading
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News
15 Apr 2021
Chip shortage driving up PC prices, wait times
Businesses pay more for PCs and find it difficult to replace aging ones as the ongoing chip shortage leaves computer makers scrambling for components. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Apr 2021
AR use cases gain ground due to COVID-19, maturing tech
AR technology is growing beyond technical instruction, helped by work-from-home mandates and maturing technology. Continue Reading
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News
08 Apr 2021
Samsung introduces its cheapest A Series 5G phone yet
The Korean smartphone maker announced five additions to its midtier Galaxy A Series, including the A02s, A12, and three 5G phones, the A32, A42, and A52. Continue Reading
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News
06 Apr 2021
LG to stop selling mobile phones
The Korean manufacturer will drop mobile phones and focus on electronic vehicles, smart homes and robotics. Its mobile phone unit will close by August. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2021
Apple Watch effective at assessing heart health
An at-home walking test with the Apple Watch yielded 'accurate and meaningful insights' into a person's heart strength, a Stanford University study found. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Mar 2021
fronthaul
Fronthaul, also known as mobile fronthaul, is a term that refers to the fiber-based connection of the cloud radio access network (C-RAN), a new type of cellular network architecture of centralized baseband units (BBUs) and remote radio heads (RRHs) at the access layer of the network. Continue Reading
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News
18 Mar 2021
Samsung unveils three midrange phones
Samsung's midrange Galaxy A52, A52 5G, and A72 come with additional security and more Android OS updates. The phones will be available internationally first. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Feb 2021
Samsung Quick Share will support Windows 10 use
Samsung's Quick Share file service is set to gain Windows 10 support, and it may help Samsung device users quickly transfer files for common workflows. Continue Reading
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News
24 Feb 2021
Google to release Android password check, messaging features
Google plans to release the latest features for the Android OS gradually. The updates include password checking, text message scheduling and better message dictation. Continue Reading
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News
23 Feb 2021
Apple boosts smartphone market with 5G iPhone debut
Apple injected much-needed life into the smartphone market with its 5G iPhone 12 line. Gartner said the company was the No. 1 phone manufacturer in the fourth quarter of 2020. Continue Reading
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News
19 Feb 2021
Google emphasizes security, privacy in Android 12 preview
Google highlighted privacy and security changes in the Android 12 developer preview. The OS, expected this fall, standardizes password complexity requirements for enterprise users. Continue Reading
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News
12 Feb 2021
Microsoft cuts Surface Duo's price to $1,000
Microsoft has slashed the price of its dual-screen Surface Duo phone. Experts said the device, which is focused on office work, failed to connect with consumers. Continue Reading
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News
04 Feb 2021
Cheaper 5G phones may spark global smartphone sales rebound
After a down 2020, global smartphone sales will bounce back this year. Gartner expects 11% growth in 2021, with cheaper 5G phones giving shoppers incentive to buy. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jan 2021
Samsung to release a faster OLED laptop display
The Korean manufacturer plans to ship large quantities of the 14-inch 90 Hz display by the end of the quarter. Potential buyers include Lenovo and other global IT companies. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jan 2021
The best Windows tablets for business in 2021
There are plenty of viable Windows tablets for business tasks, but each tablet has unique features and components that purchase decision-makers will have to evaluate. Continue Reading
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News
15 Jan 2021
Samsung lowers the price of Galaxy phones with S21 line
Samsung has dropped the starting price of its latest Galaxy phones by 20%. The S21 line will start at $800 when it goes on sale Jan. 29. Other models will cost $1,000 and $1,200. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jan 2021
Qualcomm to buy Nuvia for $1.4 billion
Qualcomm's $1.4 billion acquisition of Nuvia would bring a top-notch silicon design team to the mobile chipmaker. Qualcomm did not say when it expects to close the deal. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jan 2021
High phone prices driving consumers to the used phone market
High-priced phones from Apple and Samsung have energized the used phone market, experts said. A $1,000-plus price tag leads many to reconsider the value of a new phone. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jan 2021
Compare Android Enterprise vs. Android Device Administrator
In most cases, Android Enterprise will serve for organizations' Android management needs, but IT admins should understand how Android Device Admin fits into the picture. Continue Reading
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News
18 Dec 2020
Facebook attacks Apple over upcoming iPhone privacy measures
Facebook claims Apple's upcoming privacy change will hurt small businesses, but Apple argues the move gives users control over the personal data collected by apps. Continue Reading
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News
09 Dec 2020
Apple requiring privacy notices from app developers
The privacy labels on new apps and updates on the App Store have to list the data collected by developers and their partners. The notices resemble nutritional labels on food. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
07 Dec 2020
Evaluating top MDMs for Android and iOS
While most MDMs can handle both mobile OSes, IT professionals should be aware which platforms can handle Android or iOS better than others. Learn about these platforms below. Continue Reading
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News
02 Dec 2020
Smartphone market shows signs of recovery
Recent analyst reports indicate the smartphone market is leaving its deep pandemic funk as consumer spending on electronics rises and Chinese manufacturing returns to normal. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Nov 2020
Evaluating the iPhone 12 as a business phone
Organizations that rely on mobile devices have likely considered the iPhone as a business phone for its users, so they should evaluate the latest enhancements with the iPhone 12. Continue Reading
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Opinion
30 Nov 2020
Apple debuts multi-user iPadOS sessions for enterprise users
Shared iPad, previously exclusive to education, brings multi-user concepts to enterprise iPad use cases, and Apple admins should learn how it can support their organization. Continue Reading
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News
16 Oct 2020
5G isn't for the iPhone 12 buyer
U.S. carriers are years away from delivering reliable 5G service nationwide, so the supporting technology in the iPhone 12 is not a reason to buy Apple's latest smartphone. Continue Reading
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News
07 Oct 2020
Lenovo launching the first foldable PC, the ThinkPad X1 Fold
Lenovo touted the ThinkPad X1 Fold as a unified experience for workers who use laptops and tablets. The company has started taking orders. Continue Reading
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News
16 Sep 2020
Faster iPads unveiled at Apple Event
At this week's Apple Event, the company unveiled an iPad Air powered by the company's fastest A14 processor. Apple also introduced the eighth-generation iPad. Continue Reading
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News
15 Sep 2020
Nvidia's Arm Limited buy could shake mobile industry
Nvidia announced a $40 billion deal to buy chip designer Arm Limited. Now, it must convince regulators and smartphone makers that it will keep the company neutral. Continue Reading
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News
14 Sep 2020
Android 11 release raises separation of work, personal data
The new Android 11 release keeps work and personal information separate, while limited permissions give users greater control of their data. Continue Reading
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News
08 Sep 2020
Lower prices could bolster declining global smartphone sales
Lower prices, the buildout of 5G networks and the eventual need for device replacement could help pull global smartphone sales out of their current funk. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Aug 2020
Mobile device convergence brings security challenges
The trend of mobile device convergence, adding more functionality to smaller hybrid devices, is growing in intensity with the COVID-19 pandemic, and IT must be prepared for it. Continue Reading
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News
21 Aug 2020
OnwardMobility leans on nostalgia in new BlackBerry
OnwardMobility is betting the return of the physical keyboard to its new BlackBerry will garner fans among mobile professionals. The phone is set for release next year. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Aug 2020
New iOS 14 features that mobile admins should be excited for
With the impending release of iOS 14, mobile admins should learn the advancements that iOS 14 can offer and how the features can make a major difference in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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News
18 Aug 2020
High Surface Duo price limits phone's appeal
Microsoft is pitching its new dual-screen Surface phone as a productivity powerhouse. Experts said the high Surface Duo price tag will limit its potential market. Continue Reading
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News
10 Aug 2020
Samsung Galaxy Unpacked highlighted Microsoft partnership
Product integrations unveiled at Samsung Galaxy Unpacked could benefit users of Samsung devices and the Microsoft Office productivity suite. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Jul 2020
What new Android 11 features should IT know about?
Android 11's public beta has revealed several new features that IT admins should take note of, such as incremental app installs and more detailed information on app data access. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jun 2020
The iOS 14 update offers little to enterprise users
Enterprises won't see much benefit from the features in the iOS 14 update Apple announced this week, but some changes may improve collaboration. Continue Reading
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News
05 Jun 2020
Global smartphone sales took sizable hit in Q1
The first quarter of 2020 brought a 20% decline in global smartphone sales. Analysts cited weak demand and pandemic-related disruptions as reasons for the drop. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 May 2020
Dell XPS 13 (2020) review: The best Windows 10 laptop
The Dell XPS 13 is more expensive than other Windows 10 laptops, but is it worth it? Its impeccable design, stunning display and impressive spec sheet suggest yes, at least on paper. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2020
Top iOS 13 mobile device management features for IT
The new iOS 13 mobile device management features Apple introduced help IT with device enrollment and other tasks, but IT must determine how these features fit into its plans. Continue Reading
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Answer
28 Apr 2020
How does the aggressive iOS 13 RAM management affect UX?
Apple's iOS 13 comes with RAM management that may terminate mobile apps that aren't in use. Apple has somewhat addressed this with updates, but some of the core issues remain. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Apr 2020
How can IT address smartphone battery drain and mobile UX?
Here are smartphone battery tips that admins should keep in mind. Find out all the factors that could affect the battery life and how IT can mitigate smartphone battery drain. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Apr 2020
Evaluate the foldable mobile phone market for the enterprise
As more foldable mobile devices come to market, IT pros should familiarize themselves with the available models and evaluate if they're a worthwhile investment. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Apr 2020
Understanding the features of Android enterprise device management
Don't get overwhelmed when managing Android devices in the enterprise. Check out this cheat sheet to understand and use features that make device management a breeze. Continue Reading
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News
27 Mar 2020
iPad Pro news a boon for enterprise users
Apple announced updates to its iPad Pro, including mouse support, but analysts do not believe the changes will lead to widespread adoption. Continue Reading
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Opinion
24 Mar 2020
The enterprise angle on the 2020 MacBook Air and iPadOS 13.4 trackpad support
Both the iPad software and hardware are moving closer to the realm of laptop territory, while staying true to their tablet roots. Is this the ultimate 2-in-1? Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2020
Standardize mobile UI with Microsoft Launcher for Android
The Microsoft Launcher for Android functionality in Intune allows IT to provide a single UI for its Android devices. IT can configure it with JSON or Configuration Designer data. Continue Reading
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News
25 Feb 2020
Lenovo ThinkPad models upgraded to Intel 10th Gen, AMD Ryzen 4000
New models include Intel 10th Gen vPro CPUs and, on select models, AMD Ryzen 4000 Pro CPUs. Wi-Fi 6, ThinkShield and modern standby are also featured in the new models. Continue Reading
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Answer
24 Feb 2020
How can IT manage Android Things devices in the enterprise?
The Android Things program provides APIs that link atypical Android devices to Android smartphone management tools, so mobile admins must learn to manage Android Things devices. Continue Reading
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Opinion
24 Feb 2020
Android 11 Developer Preview is out. What does the enterprise need to know?
The updates are mostly incremental, but that’s a sign of Android Enterprise maturity. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Feb 2020
Augmented reality technology matures but deployment hurdles remain
For IT admins who are just getting the hang of managing smartphones and tablets in the enterprise, AR may not be a welcome tech. Continue Reading
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Opinion
20 Feb 2020
Will the enterprise adopt dual-screen or foldable devices? Count me among the skeptics
Granted, vendors might not care at the moment and simply want consumers to pick these up. But, we had these same questions about the iPad. Continue Reading
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News
13 Feb 2020
Samsung Unpacked 2020 a foreshadowing of enterprise mobility trends
The Samsung Unpacked event may have focused on consumer-oriented announcements such as the unveiling of its foldable Galaxy Z Flip, but experts said it's a sign of what's to come. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
13 Feb 2020
MWC Barcelona 2020 cancelled because of coronavirus concerns
Industry observers called the cancellation of Mobile World Congress 2020 disappointing but understandable. The cancellation was announced on Wednesday, with hosting organization GSM Association ... Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Feb 2020
Apple’s walled garden leads to #FreeTheSandbox initiative. What is it?
Maybe we’re starting to see more vocal pushback from the security community around iOS and Android security. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Feb 2020
What Android security threats should IT know about?
Mobile admins must understand the nature of the most recent Android security threats so they can protect users, but it's crucial to know where these verified threats are listed. Continue Reading
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News
07 Feb 2020
BlackBerry smartphones pact will lapse, marking end of an era
With the end of a BlackBerry devices licensing agreement, will the iconic smartphone brand disappear from the market? Experts discuss the company and its legacy. Continue Reading
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News
03 Feb 2020
Will Microsoft's Surface Duo phone conquer the enterprise?
Will businesses find a use for -- and will developers build apps for -- Microsoft's upcoming dual-screen Surface Duo phone? Experts say they can only speculate for now. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2020
Surface Duo brings a Windows Surface-Android partnership
The new Windows Surface Duo device promises a marriage of Google Android and Microsoft hardware, and organizations should learn how the device could help their mobile users. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jan 2020
Rugged devices market grows as hardware gets more portable
A warehouse employee needs logistics information while wearing gloves. A delivery worker needs their device in the truck and at the door. Here's why rugged devices are on the rise. Continue Reading
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Opinion
28 Jan 2020
Imprivata acquires GroundControl, the unique iOS management tool that augments MDM
GroundControl can “image” iOS devices and configure settings that MDM can’t touch, and enables shared device usage. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jan 2020
Explore Android OS alternatives for enterprise use
While enterprise adoption for Android OS alternatives, IT professionals should learn about the options available so they can weigh the different features and apps available. Continue Reading
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Opinion
16 Jan 2020
No one ever talks about Siri in the workplace. Does Apple’s assistant have a place?
Digital assistants keep making more and more appearances in platform software. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jan 2020
Acer Spin 5, TravelMate P6 preview: Great specs, good price
At CES 2020, the Acer Spin 5 and Acer TravelMate P6 and P2 series headlined the vendor's appearance. Acer focused its upgrades on durability, productivity and affordability. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jan 2020
Dell Latitude 9510 and XPS 13 preview: Best in business
The Dell Latitude 9510 and XPS 13 unveiled at CES 2020 redefine the business laptop, touting features like 5G, AI, impossibly long battery life, maxed out displays and more. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Jan 2020
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook, Galaxy Book Flex Alpha hands-on
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook revealed at CES promises more power and performance than competitors, while the Galaxy Book Flex Alpha is an affordable option to its predecessor. Continue Reading
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Opinion
08 Jan 2020
Making sense of Apple’s enterprise app distribution changes
For in-house apps, Apple is now pushing the Custom Apps program (formerly the B2B program) as an alternative to enterprise-signed apps. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jan 2020
HP Spectre X360 15, Elite Dragonfly hands-on preview
Upgrades to the HP Spectre X360 15 and HP Elite Dragonfly were unveiled at CES 2020, catering to the needs of business users -- but at a cost. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jan 2020
It's a foldable PC: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold hands-on preview
The much-awaited Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold headlined the vendor's CES 2020 appearance, accompanied by upgrades to two of its flagship laptops -- the ThinkPad X1 Carbon and Yoga. Continue Reading
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Opinion
18 Dec 2019
iOS 13.3 adds support for NFC, USB, and Lightning security keys
Android has had this feature forever and finally Apple catches up, or does it? Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Dec 2019
Enterprise wearables bring benefits, management challenges
Enterprise mobility isn't just about smartphones and tablets. Wearable device adoption is growing, so IT should be ready to support this dynamic category of mobile devices. Continue Reading
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News
11 Dec 2019
Mobile device security key trend in top 10 most read stories of 2019
Mobile devices provide productivity benefits but introduce security concerns, a delicate balance for IT pros that surfaces in this year's list of most read stories. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Dec 2019
How to install root CA certificates on iPhones and iPads
Apple iPads and iPhones can connect securely to enterprise networks, but IT admins need to install root certificates or CA certificates to the devices first. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Nov 2019
Deploy kiosk devices with the Managed Home Screen Android app
The Managed Home Screen app allows Microsoft Intune admins to deploy multi-app kiosk devices. IT should learn the two best Managed Home Screen Android management options. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Nov 2019
Smartphone market trends elicit longer refresh cycles
Organization must follow the smartphone market trends to inform their purchase decisions. Mobile admins should tailor purchase choices to fit each desired use case. Continue Reading
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Opinion
05 Nov 2019
New Apple MDM terms iOS admins should know
Apple introduced a new BYOD-friendly management mode for iOS and macOS and renamed the existing Apple MDM modes. Get up to speed with the three new terms. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Oct 2019
Google OEM config program enables quick updates to EMM
Google's OEM Config program incentivizes Android smartphone OEMs to help EMM vendors quickly support device-specific management features by uploading APIs to the Google Play Store. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Oct 2019
8 vendors who offer enterprise mobile devices and tablets in 2019
Discover eight leading providers who sell both tablets and smartphones for business workers. Their offerings are diverse, and some are more enterprise-oriented than others. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Sep 2019
How to choose the right mobile device for business
Explore three criteria to look at when evaluating which mobile device is best suited for your organization. These include ease of use, as well as security and tablets vs. smartphones. Continue Reading
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Opinion
25 Sep 2019
Safari 13 brings WebAuthn and drops legacy browser extensions
You can finally use hardware security keys, plus Apple does what Google has tried to do with extensions. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Sep 2019
Advantages and disadvantages of mobile devices in business
Mobile devices have become a steady presence in today's workplace. Learn about mobile devices in businesses and how they can help employees work more efficiently. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 Sep 2019
iOS 13 is out – Here’s what the enterprise needs to know
What does Apple need to do put the final polish on User Enrollment? Where will it be useful? What do the new iPhones mean? All this, and other notes. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Sep 2019
What native Android encryption options should IT consider?
Android encryption has evolved over the years, and full-disk encryption isn't an option in Android 10. IT must learn the best native encryption options for managed Android devices. Continue Reading
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News
13 Sep 2019
New iPhone 11 features focus on consumers, not enterprises
Apple's new line of iPhones made headlines for better battery life and cameras, but it's the improved security features that will matter most to the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Sep 2019
Latest iOS vulnerability puts mobile security in the spotlight
In this Q&A, sort through all the confusion regarding Google Project Zero's report on a major iOS vulnerability and determine how it should change your security policies. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Sep 2019
How will Project Mainline for Android devices help mobile IT?
Project Mainline promises to make the Android update process more segmented. This new structure allows IT to push out critical updates without risking OS compatibility issues. Continue Reading
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Opinion
04 Sep 2019
iOS jailbreaks and hacks in the news: Here’s what you need to know
Yes, it’s significant, but no, it doesn’t completely upend our mobile security model. Either way, it’s a good opportunity to go over security lessons. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Aug 2019
New Android Q features could relieve IT headaches
IT should get to know the latest Android Q features set to release with the new OS, but they also must learn about key features that Google will deprecate such as Device Admin. Continue Reading
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News
13 Aug 2019
Samsung-Microsoft partnership will benefit end users
The capabilities that come with connecting your smartphone to your PC can have substantial benefits for end users, according to analysts, as Samsung and Microsoft partner. Continue Reading
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News
08 Aug 2019
Samsung Unpacked brings Note10 and 10+, DeX improvements
At Samsung Unpacked 2019, the newest Galaxy note models were revealed, along with DeX updates, a hybrid laptop, smartwatch updates and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Aug 2019
Best mobile device security policy for loss or theft
When a user loses a mobile device, an organization's data may be at risk. IT should deploy specific security policies such as remote device wipes to protect its organization's data. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jul 2019
Intro to iPhone encryption features for Apple admins
Encryption for iOS devices comes baked into the device itself, but iOS devices also have some significant enterprise-level protections that IT must enable and deploy policies for. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Jul 2019
How Apple iOS 13 device management features benefit IT
Organizations with Apple mobile devices should prepare for the new iOS 13 device management features, such as user enrollment and Managed Apple IDs for Business. Continue Reading
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Podcast
17 Jun 2019
iOS 13 analysis with Aaron, Russ, and Jack - BrianMadden.com Podcast #140
We’re back for more Apple MDM updates. Learn what we know—and don’t know—about User Enrollment, managed Apple IDs, Automated Device Enrollment authentication, SSO extensions, Custom Apps, and more! Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Jun 2019
How the Huawei ban will affect enterprise mobility
The U.S.'s ban of business purchases of foreign telecommunications products, largely aimed at Chinese vendor Huawei, has major implications for mobile IT admins around the world. Continue Reading
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News
13 Jun 2019
Intel's Project Athena aims to improve mobile PC standards
Intel's multi-year plan to improve PCs focuses first on improving battery life and connectivity capabilities. But analysts warn that Intel could fall into the over promise and under deliver trap. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2019
New Vive virtual reality for enterprise is now available
The Vive Pro Eye, a virtual reality product specifically designed for enterprise is now available for purchase in North America, and features precision eye tracking. Continue Reading
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Opinion
10 Jun 2019
iOS 13 will dramatically improve MDM for BYOD. Hello User Enrollment!
Now updated with Part 2! – The new privacy-focused User Enrollment mode for MDM is just what we’ve been waiting for. Continue Reading