With Apple’s newest operating system set to roll out imminently, there are a whole host of new features available with business in mind, from back-end management through to end-user functionality. Considering that the BYOD culture is obtaining ever-more traction in the workplace, here’s a few ways in which iOS7 will make a difference to business.
1. Upgraded security
Often one of the biggest barriers to BYOD adoption is the issue of security. Existing Apple operating systems haven’t historically been able to fully answer this question, however iOS7 will allow IT managers to designate which apps are allowed to be accessed the corporate VPN (Virtual Private Network). In simpler terms, this means that only business content will be routed through enterprise infrastructure, whilst personal data and activity steers clear, meaning more secure corporate data.
2. Enterprise Single Sign-On
Essentially this means users can log in once and be authenticated across all of a business’ apps. This will save employees from having to constantly enter multiple passwords, and through allowing more convenient access to corporate content, boost productivity.
3. App store licence management
Apple is giving more ownership and control over app licences. In the same way that many businesses manage software licences centrally for the desktop, they can now buy apps through The ‘App Store Volume Purchase Programme’ website and assign to employees ‘over the air’. This means employees can download apps using their usual Apple ID without needing to disclose it to the business. However, businesses still have the power to revoke and reassign that app.
4. More Mobile Device Management options
IT managers will now more easily be able to ‘enrol’ devices in line with existing mobile device management solutions, meaning that they are configured with corporate settings and in line with company policies. This will allow for rapid activation (potentially of many devices at once) so that employees can be up and running quickly.
5. Managed ‘Open in’
iPhone users have typically been able to choose what app they want to open attachments in, which has presented somewhat of a security headache for businesses in the past, as the app automatically makes a copy of that document. With iOS7 you can now protect corporate data by controlling which apps and accounts are used to open documents and attachments.
6. Improved mail
An everyday necessity for most businesses, email is one of the areas Apple has tightened the screws on. There’s been a complete redesign, as well as the addition of new functionality like PDF support, improved search and Microsoft Exchange 2010 support. Overall, a welcome improvement for those of us who often have to read emails on the go.
7. Easier multitasking
Double-clicking the home button has always been the quickest way to switch between apps. With the new OS, larger scrollable previews for active apps appear over the phone display. iOS7 also learns when you use certain apps the most, and consequently when to update content before they are launched.
It’s clear from these new features that Apple’s newest iOS is more than just a skin-deep update, there’s a lot more to offer both end-users and enterprise. Businesses of all sizes should therefore be looking to maximise these features to improve productivity, efficiency and ultimately provide a slicker service to customers. SAP is already on board, as a company that supports Apple devices for employees around the world, iOS7 is already supported across all of our mobile applications and solutions.
Will you be making the most of iOS7? How do you think it fits in with BYOD? Let us know in the comments below.
John Antunes, Regional Director, SME and Channels, UKI & Netherlands at SAP
For more information on mobility and BYOD for SMEs, take a look at our Innovation Guide