Definition

Android for Work

Android for Work is a program for devices running on the Google Android mobile operating system that allows IT to manage and secure business applications on a work-specific profile.

The set of services includes four main components: Work Profiles, the Android for Work app, Google Play for Work and built-in productivity tools.

  • Work Profiles: This feature is only available on devices that run Android 5.0 Lollipop or later. The profile setup keeps work and personal information separate architecturally, meaning IT cannot access or delete users' private data, including photos and emails from the device.
  • Android for Work app: Devices that run Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich through version 4.4 KitKat can use the Android for Work app in place of the Work Profiles feature. The app is free, but organizations are required to run enterprise mobility management software from a vendor such as AirWatch by VMware, Citrix, IBM Fiberlink, MobileIron, BlackBerry or SAP to use it.
  • Google Play for Work: This feature allows organizations to deploy any third-party or internal business apps through Google's app store. IT has to power to preapprove, whitelist, configure or block applications.
  • Productivity Tools: Android for Work also includes a preinstalled productivity suite that features applications such as email, contacts, calendar, Docs, Sheets and Slides. This suite also supports Exchange and Notes and provides shared editing capabilities.
This was last updated in March 2015

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