Google Android operating system and devices
Android OS is a Linux-based mobile operating system that primarily runs on smartphones and tablets.. See complete definition.
Top Stories
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News
10 Jan 2022
Google updates bring Apple-like interoperability to Android
Google will roll out a host of Android OS updates and features throughout 2022 focused on improving interoperability between Android, Windows and Chrome devices. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Dec 2021
When should you use Android Enterprise Essentials?
With the Android Enterprise Essentials program, organizations get simple and basic device management. However, this approach isn't a great fit for all organizations. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 Dec 2021
How can Android Enterprise Recommended improve user privacy?
To simultaneously tackle the issues of mobile user privacy and security, IT can deploy Android Enterprise Recommended devices and partition them with a dedicated API. Continue Reading
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News
18 Nov 2021
Samsung brings Android 12 privacy to Galaxy S21 series
One UI 4 notifies smartphone users when apps access their camera, location or microphone. The software also lists the apps accessing people's data and keeps track of permissions. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2021
Integrating Android Enterprise with Intune device management
Organizations that deploy Android devices should look to Android Enterprise APIs to provide control of managed devices, but they require integration with a management platform. Continue Reading
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News
29 Oct 2021
Google chases Apple with tablet version of Android
Android 12L, the new OS for tablets, foldables and Chromebooks, will include new ways to use the split-screen feature, but analysts are doubtful it will appeal to enterprises. Continue Reading
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News
21 Oct 2021
Google bets on the new Tensor chip to help Pixel 6 succeed
The Tensor chip within the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will perform machine learning tasks like translating foreign speech in real time. The phones cost $600 and $900, respectively. Continue Reading
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News
12 Aug 2021
Samsung moves closer to business use with Galaxy Z Fold3
Samsung's latest foldable smartphone has features likely to appeal to businesspeople, including a more durable body and display and support for the S Pen stylus. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2021
Motorola adds 5G to its Moto G Stylus
Motorola will offer the $400 Moto G Stylus 5G as a more affordable alternative to the $1,000 Samsung Galaxy Note 5G. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 May 2021
The future of BYOD: Trends and predictions
As employees and corporations come to expect greater flexibility and mobility, BYODs are an important element in the successful planning and execution of the hybrid workplace. Continue Reading
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News
19 May 2021
Google overhauls Android appearance, privacy settings
Android 12 will feature larger and rounder widgets, themes based on backgrounds and settings that let users opt out of letting apps access their locations, microphones and cameras. 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
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
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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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
04 Dec 2020
Google launching basic Android device management
Google's Android Enterprise Essentials will let small businesses add necessary security to their Android devices without the complexity of more advanced management products. 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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Feature
29 Oct 2020
Smartphones and laptops for business hinge on cost, use, apps
Factors like cost, usage, applications, management, longevity and security figure in the selection of company-issued smartphones, laptops and printers for digital workers. 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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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
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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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
10 Mar 2020
Android 11 features zero in on security, privacy
Google's first developer preview of Android 11 highlights features aimed squarely at the enterprise, including bolstered security, a focus on compatibility and improved messaging. Continue Reading
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News
28 Feb 2020
Microsoft antivirus software for Android, iOS a reflection of the times
The announcement of Microsoft antivirus software Defender on Android and iOS caused some puzzlement, but experts said the move recognizes the current security landscape. 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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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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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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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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Feature
06 Nov 2019
New Outlook features appeal to users on the go
At Ignite, Microsoft announced some improvements to its Office app and Outlook for iOS and Android. Learn about how it benefits both IT and end users. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Oct 2019
How can the Samsung Knox Service Plugin help mobile admins?
The Knox Service Plugin helps Samsung smartphone admins roll out security features through EMM tools more quickly. The program lowers the programming burden for EMM vendors as well. 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
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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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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Tip
23 Sep 2019
Intune mobile device management features for Android 10, iOS 13
The Intune mobile device management features that IT can deploy differ based on which mobile OS users run. The latest versions of iOS and Android add to the list of differences. 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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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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News
05 Sep 2019
Insecure Android provisioning could lead to phishing attacks
Researchers say many -- if not most -- Android smartphones are at risk of SMS-based phishing attacks that trick users into installing malicious OTA provisioning settings. 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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Opinion
29 Jul 2019
Mobility management systems evolve from MDM to EMM to UEM
Driven by the cloud, evolving mobile devices, unification and the need for better security, companies are vacating the premises and embracing unified endpoint management. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Jun 2019
What can IT do to enhance Android security?
Android is just as secure as its competitors' OSes, but IT should still remain vigilant. Here are three ways to secure Android devices for the enterprise. 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
10 Jun 2019
Google: Triada backdoors were pre-installed on Android devices
Google detailed the discovery and process of removing Triada malware after a supply chain attack led to backdoors being preinstalled on budget phones in overseas markets. Continue Reading
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News
17 May 2019
How Google turned 1.5 billion Android phones into 2FA keys
Google product manager Christiaan Brand discusses the journey to making 1.5 billion Android devices work as 2FA security keys and the plan for the future. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 May 2019
How can zero-touch enrollment help Android admins?
Zero-touch enrollment can simplify the logistics of Android device provisioning for IT. This option has some restrictions, but some organizations can benefit from this method. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 May 2019
Why do mobile admins need Android Enterprise management?
Google is pushing Android Enterprise management and deprecating Device Admin features. Find out why IT should fall in line and migrate to Android Enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2019
Transition to Android Enterprise management before Android Q
With the upcoming deprecation of Device Admin APIs, IT should look at the possibility of migration to Android Enterprise, Google's endorsed API program, for device management. Continue Reading
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News
08 May 2019
Google I/O 2019 keynote brings focus on security and privacy
After being a no-show at last year's conference, security and privacy improvements were big themes at Google I/O's first day, including discussion on federated learning. Continue Reading
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News
08 May 2019
The new Google Pixel 3a Android smartphone starts at $399
Google launched the more affordable Pixel 3a and 3a XL phones for $399 and $479, with the aim of providing smartphones similar in quality to the Pixels for less money. Continue Reading
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News
03 May 2019
Chrome OS 74 brings support for AI search, annotations and more
Google's Chrome OS 74 release includes numerous organizational, accessibility and security upgrades, as well as Android and Linux support, to improve usability. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Apr 2019
Which Android Device Admin APIs will Google deprecate?
With the release of Android Q, Google will discontinue several Android Device Admin APIs. Learn which Android management APIs will be deprecated and which will remain. Continue Reading
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Guide
26 Apr 2019
Best smartphone for business use relies on many key factors
Operating systems and security protection are among the key considerations when companies select smartphones for business use. Learn more about device options and decision points. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Apr 2019
Android or iOS for business users: Pros and cons for each OS
When IT considers Android or iOS for business use, it should factor in the customization and variety that Android allows, compared to the consistency that iOS offers. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Apr 2019
Phablet vs. tablet: How can IT determine which option is best?
For mobile endpoints, IT must determine the best choice of phablet vs. tablet. IT should examine the strengths and weaknesses of each device type before making a choice. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Apr 2019
As enterprise device choice grows, so should a CYOD strategy
It's been 11 years since the iPhone came to market, but IT admins are still struggling with CYOD strategies. One reason? Choose your own device is now choose your own devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Mar 2019
5 tips for iOS and Android kiosk device management
IT pros can deploy configurations for kiosk devices with mobile management tools, such as Microsoft Intune. Consider these tips to ensure kiosk devices function as intended. Continue Reading
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Opinion
26 Mar 2019
A short review of the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus
Smartphones continue to mature, making us wonder whether it’s worth releasing yearly iterations. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2019
Use Android Enterprise to lock down mobile devices
IT can integrate Android controls with EMM tools via APIs from Google's Android Enterprise program. These EMM capabilities can help IT manage updates and secure devices. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Mar 2019
Mobile deployments get flexible with Android, device as a service
Mobile device admins have plenty of choices for their mobile deployments, including OSes and device ownership plans. Get the lay of the land with this Q&A. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Mar 2019
Key Android Enterprise security controls for mobile admins
Mobile device admins should take advantage of Android Enterprise's security configurations to prevent threats such as data leakage and hackers bypassing authentication. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Feb 2019
Learn Microsoft Intune's Android device management options
IT can use Microsoft Intune management for several Android device scenarios. Intune admins must learn how to enroll each device type and Intune's limits. Continue Reading
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News
26 Feb 2019
Android brings FIDO2 certification to 1 billion devices
The FIDO Alliance announced Android has received FIDO2 certification, which will bring the ability to sign into websites and apps with biometrics, rather than passwords. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2019
Why Linux on Samsung DeX creates challenges for IT
Using DeX, users can create a Linux desktop with their Samsung smartphones. But IT should be aware of the challenges with its deployment and management. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Jan 2019
Man-in-the-disk attack: How are Android products affected?
Researchers from Check Point announced a new attack at Black Hat 2018 that targets Android devices. Discover how this attack works and how devices should be protected with Nick Lewis. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Jan 2019
Google announces Android Enterprise Recommended program for EMM vendors
Initial EMM vendors include Blackberry, Google Cloud, I3 Systems, IBM, Microsoft, MobileIron, SoftBank, SOTI, and VMware. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Nov 2018
What problems occur with Intune app protection for Outlook?
IT needs to configure settings a certain way to avoid problems when end users connect Outlook to Exchange Online. Here are steps to ensure that end users experience little friction. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Oct 2018
Stay updated on the Android Enterprise Recommended program
Google made a few updates to Android Enterprise Recommended. Explore recent offerings from the proprietary Android enterprise device program, including support for rugged devices. Continue Reading
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Infographic
20 Sep 2018
Samsung Galaxy Note 9 improvements are small but powerful
Samsung's newest smartphone, the Note 9, is similar to the Note 8 at first glance. But there are improvements under the hood, so learn about what sets it apart in this overview. Continue Reading
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Answer
27 Aug 2018
How does Google's new detection model find bad Android apps?
Malicious apps have been a consistent problem for the Google Play Store, so a new detection model has been released to help clean it up. Learn how this system works with Nick Lewis. Continue Reading
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News
20 Aug 2018
Google's OEMConfig could propel Android in business
If more EMM platforms support more types of Android devices, IT departments and business users are set to benefit. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Aug 2018
Get to know data synchronization tools for the enterprise
Users who work with multiple devices will want their data to transfer across endpoints. IT can ease the syncing process by working with the right tools. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Aug 2018
Skygofree Trojan: What makes this spyware unique?
Android malware was discovered by Kaspersky Labs and named Skygofree. This Trojan targets smartphones and tablets using spyware and gathers user information and app data. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Aug 2018
Fortnite will require Android users to allow unknown sources. Time to rethink MTD and EMM policies?
If consumers get in the habit of installing Android apps from unknown sources, some of our assumptions around Android BYOD, management, and security will have to change. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Aug 2018
Understand the tools for managing Android devices in the enterprise
Over the past year, Google has released new capabilities and features to manage Android enterprise devices. IT should be aware of these recent updates for Android device management. Continue Reading
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Opinion
06 Aug 2018
BYOD & privacy: Don’t settle for less than Android Enterprise in 2018
Jason Bayton knows Android management inside and out. Today, he outlines the strong case for switching to Android Enterprise work profiles in BYOD scenarios. Continue Reading
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Opinion
31 Jul 2018
Should IT monitor mobile device usage for work-life balance?
Work-related email and other communications have spilled over into after-work hours for many employees today. But should the IT department get involved in monitoring that? Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Jul 2018
Trojan.AndroidOS.Loapi: What is this jack-of-all-trades malware?
Kaspersky researchers found a new Android malware that can physically harm phones. Learn how this works and the steps to mitigate the attack with expert Nick Lewis. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 Jul 2018
Unpack the role of Google's Flutter app dev framework
Google's new cross-platform framework, Flutter, could threaten Android's existence. Explore three theories about why the company developed its new tool. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Jul 2018
Android vulnerability: How can users mitigate Janus malware?
The Janus vulnerability was found injecting malicious code into reputable Android apps. Once injected, users' endpoints become infected. Learn how to prevent this with expert Nick Lewis. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Jun 2018
What do the major mobile OSes offer for enterprise features?
Mobile devices are now commonplace in the enterprise. Discover which vendors are touting enterprise-ready features and which are reluctant to jump into the enterprise realm. Continue Reading
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Opinion
29 May 2018
Cross-platform mobile app development is more viable than ever
Organizations today support such a variety of devices that they need a way to deliver apps more seamlessly. Cross-platform development is a new reality that can help. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 May 2018
Explore new features of Android Pie
Google released the public beta of Android's latest operating system, Android Pie, which includes new features for the enterprise. Discover what this latest version has to offer. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2018
Android instant app use cases flourish in e-commerce
Instant apps are bite-size applications that end users don't need to install to their mobile devices. Discover the pros and cons of this technology, and which use cases make sense. Continue Reading
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News
30 Mar 2018
Office mobile app management evens the EMM playing field
With so many mobile users reliant on Office 365 to get work done, it was high time Microsoft and EMM vendors made app management and security easier for IT. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Mar 2018
Overview of Samsung Galaxy S9 specs, features for business
The Samsung Galaxy S9 features are pretty similar to that of the S8. But a dual rear camera and other interesting specs continue to make the Galaxy an option for any user. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Mar 2018
Com.google.provision virus: How does it attack Android devices?
The com.google.provision virus reportedly targets Android users, but little is known about it. Nick Lewis discusses the mystery threat and how Common Malware Enumeration may help. Continue Reading
- 12 Mar 2018
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Answer
12 Mar 2018
ExpensiveWall malware: How does this SMS attack function?
A new SMS malware known as ExpensiveWall was recently discovered by Check Point. Learn how it infects devices and puts Android device users at risk with expert Nick Lewis. Continue Reading
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Answer
05 Mar 2018
How can IT reduce smartphone viruses?
It's important for organizations to stay current on what's new in mobile malware and to develop security policies to combat these vulnerabilities. Continue Reading
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News
21 Feb 2018
Android Enterprise Recommended touts quick security updates
Google's new program certifies devices that meet minimum hardware requirements, provide regular Android security updates and offer a consistent management experience. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Jan 2018
What do Dnsmasq vulnerabilities mean for Android users?
Researchers found several Dnsmasq vulnerabilities that affect Google's Android operating system. Matt Pascucci explains how these flaws can be exploited by threat actors. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2018
Compare the main mobile app development languages
Developing an app is all about visualizing what the users need and what they'll see in the UI. Get visual with this infographic about the top mobile app dev languages before you build. Continue Reading
