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
03 Jun 2025
Evaluating tablets as thin clients in the enterprise
There are numerous options for thin client hardware including dedicated thin clients and retired PCs, but the evolution of tablets makes them viable as virtual desktop endpoints. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Apr 2025
How to remove a work profile from an Android device
When a user leaves their organization or loses their device, it's time to remove their Android work profile. Learn three methods to delete a work profile on an end-user device. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jun 2023
milliampere-hour (mAh)
A milliampere-hour (mAh) is one-thousandth of an ampere hour (Ah), which can also be written as 1 mAh = 0.001 Ah. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jun 2023
OS X
OS X, also referred to as macOS X or Mac OS X, is Apple's proprietary, Unix-based operating system. Released in 2001 as the successor to Mac OS 9, OS X incorporates support for Unix-based applications as well as for those written specifically for the Mac. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Jun 2023
A fresh look at business use cases for AR and VR
AR and VR have matured over the years as technologies, but the business use cases haven't been as sticky. However, the future could hold an unexpected use case -- desktops. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Jun 2023
iCloud
Apple's free iCloud service stores subscribers' photos, videos, documents, apps and more and updates everything across users' synced devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jun 2023
TrackPoint (pointing stick)
A TrackPoint, also called a pointing stick, is a cursor control device found in Lenovo ThinkPad notebook computers. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 May 2023
7 key benefits of enacting a BYOD policy
While some benefits of a BYOD program are obvious, such as allowing users to only carry one endpoint, other benefits are worth exploring, such as lowering corporate emissions. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Apr 2023
mouse
A mouse is a small device that a computer user pushes across a desk surface in order to point to a place on a display screen and to select one or more actions to take from that position. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Apr 2023
glyph
In information technology, a glyph -- from a Greek word meaning carving -- is a graphic symbol that provides the appearance or form for a character. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Apr 2023
smartphone
A smartphone is a cellular telephone with an integrated computer and other features not originally associated with telephones, such as an operating system (OS), web browsing and the ability to run software applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2023
mobile UI (mobile user interface)
A mobile UI (mobile user interface) is the graphical and usually touch-sensitive display on a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, that allows the user to interact with the device's apps, features, content and functions. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2023
CYOD (choose your own device)
CYOD (choose your own device) is an employee provisioning model in which an organization allows people to select the mobile devices they would like, usually from a limited number of options. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2023
Google Android 4.4 KitKat
Android 4.4 KitKat is a version of Google's operating system (OS) for smartphones and tablets. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2023
iPad Air
Apple's iPad Air is a tablet that is lighter and thinner than Apple's previous tablets. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Apr 2023
Windows CE
Windows CE is a version of Microsoft's Windows operating system (OS) that is designed for mobile and other space-constrained devices with small footprints. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Mar 2023
PC card
A PC card, also known as a PCMCIA card, is a credit card-sized memory or input/output (I/O) device that fits into a PC, usually a laptop. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Mar 2023
Apple AirDrop
Apple AirDrop is a native feature in iOS and macOS that lets users share data from one device to another on the same Wi-Fi network. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Mar 2023
Apple Bonjour
Apple Bonjour is a group of networking technologies designed to help devices and applications discover each other on the same network. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2023
How to use the iPadOS file manager in the enterprise
Organizations can use the iPadOS Files app to manage files locally or in the cloud. Learn the pros and cons of both storage types and how to use them in the native file manager. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2023
device ID (device identification)
A device ID (device identification) is an anonymous string of numbers and letters that uniquely identifies a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet or smartwatch. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2023
How does enterprise file management in iOS work?
It's important to ensure that files are secure and easy to work with on enterprise mobile devices. In iOS, the Files app is a key tool for personal and corporate file management. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Mar 2023
network operating system (NOS)
A network operating system (NOS) is a computer operating system (OS) that's designed primarily to support workstations, PCs and, in some instances, older terminals that are connected on a local area network (LAN). Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Mar 2023
What are the best file managers for Mac devices?
If the native macOS file manager is lacking, IT can look to third-party options for advanced features. Commander One, ForkLift and Path Finder are three alternatives to consider. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Mar 2023
mobile operating system
A mobile operating system (OS) is software that allows smartphones, tablet PCs (personal computers) and other devices to run applications and programs. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Mar 2023
How to ensure iPhone configuration profiles are safe
Configuration profiles make it easier to manage BYOD iPhones, but they're also associated with malware. Mobile security policies can ensure configuration profiles are safe. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2023
laptop
A laptop, sometimes called a notebook computer by manufacturers, is a battery- or AC-powered personal computer (PC) smaller than a briefcase. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Feb 2023
Android Oreo
Android 8.0 Oreo is the eighth major update to the Android operating system that contains new features and enhancements for application developers. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Feb 2023
How to enable User Enrollment for iOS in Microsoft Intune
User Enrollment in iOS can separate work and personal data on BYOD devices. IT teams should learn how to enable it in Microsoft Intune and how it can affect user experience. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Feb 2023
How to restore a deleted Android work profile
If a user deletes an Android work profile or switches devices, they will need to go through the process to restore it. Learn the simple steps to reenroll an Android work profile here. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Feb 2023
Does Apple offer work profiles for iPhones?
Apple uses data and device containerization -- instead of the Android Work Profile model -- to split work and personal information on iPhones and support BYOD deployments. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Feb 2023
anime
Anime, pronounced AH-nee-may, is a style of Japanese animated entertainment that has become increasingly popular around the world in recent years. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Feb 2023
How long can smartphones last in the enterprise?
Many organizations aim to use the smartphones they've invested in for as long as possible, but outdated or malfunctioning devices present risks that can cost more in the long run. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Feb 2023
soft reset
A soft reset is a restart of a device, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop or personal computer (PC). Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Feb 2023
augmented reality gaming (AR gaming)
Augmented reality gaming (AR gaming) is the real-time integration of virtual game elements with the physical environment of the player. Continue Reading
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News
02 Feb 2023
Samsung seeks bigger role as a business mobile provider
Samsung's wide variety of mobile devices, partnerships with software makers and government-grade security are differentiators in the business market, analysts said. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2023
How long should you support Android phones in the enterprise?
The Android OS can run on a wide range of devices, but how long should enterprise organizations support Android phones? Find out which factors help determine the lifecycle length. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2023
Understanding how long iPhones can last in the enterprise
Organizations may want to use the devices they invest in for as long as possible, but how long does Apple support iPhones? Explore the factors that affect the lifespan of iPhones. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2023
QWERTY keyboard
The QWERTY (pronounced KWEHR-tee) keyboard is the standard typewriter and computer keyboard in countries that use a Latin-based alphabet. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jan 2023
Android Studio
Android Studio is the official integrated development environment (IDE) for Android application development. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2023
How organizations should handle mobile device lifecycles
Understanding the mobile device lifecycle can help IT manage endpoints from purchase to retirement, with different tools and processes supporting devices at different stages. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jan 2023
Slowing PC sales spark lower prices
PC prices are dropping as manufacturers lower prices to move inventory. Market saturation following the pandemic is a significant factor in the drop in sales. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2023
How does Android 13 work profile improve IT management
When users bring personal Android devices to the workplace, IT should consider using work profiles on these devices. Learn about the latest work profile features on Android 13. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jan 2023
Google Chrome browser
Google Chrome browser is a free web browser used for accessing the internet and running web-based applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Dec 2022
Finding the best cellphone plans for small businesses
A business mobile plan is common in the enterprise, but the picture isn't as clear for SMBs. If an SMB opts to purchase a phone plan, there are many options to choose from. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Dec 2022
Apple User Enrollment
Apple User Enrollment (UE) is a form of mobile device management (MDM) for Apple products that supports iOS 13 and macOS Catalina. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Dec 2022
How small businesses can pick the right mobile devices
To cash-strapped SMBs, deploying mobile devices may seem excessive. However, mobile devices are valuable tools to increase communication and productivity for business users. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Dec 2022
tvOS
TvOS is the operating system that runs on the 4th and 5th generation Apple TV digital media player. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Dec 2022
Wireless Application Protocol (WAP)
Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) is a specification for a set of communication protocols to standardize the way wireless devices, such as mobile phones and radio transceivers, can be used for internet access, including email, the web, newsgroups and instant messaging. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Nov 2022
autocorrect
Autocorrect is a word processing feature that identifies misspelled words, and uses algorithms to identify the words most likely to have been intended, and edits the text accordingly. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Nov 2022
general-purpose computer
A general-purpose computer is one that, given the application and required time, should be able to perform the most common computing tasks. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Nov 2022
capacitive touchscreen
A capacitive touchscreen is a control display that uses the conductive touch of a human finger or a specialized input device for input and control. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Nov 2022
display
In computing, a display is a device with a screen that shows a rendered electronic image made up of pixels that are illuminated in a way that distinguishes text and graphic elements. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Oct 2022
predictive text
Predictive text is an input technology that facilitates typing on a device by suggesting words the user may wish to insert in a text field. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Oct 2022
burner phone
A burner phone, or 'burner,' is an inexpensive mobile phone designed for temporary, sometimes anonymous, use, after which it may be discarded. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Oct 2022
on-screen display (OSD)
An on-screen display (OSD) is a control panel superimposed on a computer monitor, mobile device, television screen or another electronic device display that enables users to select viewing options and/or adjust components of the display, such as brightness, contrast, and horizontal and vertical positioning. Continue Reading
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News
23 Sep 2022
Microsoft focuses on remote security with Windows 11 update
Microsoft's Windows 11 2022 Update includes features for protecting sensitive corporate data and helping remote workers avoid malware and phishing attacks. Continue Reading
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News
08 Sep 2022
Apple chases growing premium market with iPhone 14
Apple shifted its attention to premium smartphones in the latest iPhone 14 lineup with features such as Lockdown Mode that IT organizations can use to protect sensitive data. Continue Reading
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News
10 Aug 2022
Samsung offers Fold4 to an indifferent business market
Samsung aims the new Fold4 directly at the business market with optimized versions of Google and Microsoft productivity apps. The device is scheduled to ship this month. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Aug 2022
m-commerce (mobile commerce)
M-commerce (mobile commerce) is the buying and selling of goods and services through wireless handheld devices such as smartphones and tablets. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Aug 2022
resolution
Resolution is the number of pixels -- picture elements or individual points of color -- that can be contained on a display screen or in a camera sensor. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jul 2022
How to perform a full remote wipe on an Android device
When a device is lost or no longer needed for work purposes, a remote wipe can keep corporate data secure. This is a vital safeguard for mobile Android devices in the workplace. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jul 2022
touch screen
A touch screen is an electronic display screen that is also an input device. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jun 2022
How to perform a full remote wipe on an iPhone
A remote wipe is a vital security tool as mobile devices become more common in the workplace. In organizations allowing work data on iPhones, IT should know the iOS wipe options. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jun 2022
chief data officer (CDO)
A chief data officer (CDO) in many organizations is a C-level executive whose position has evolved into a range of strategic data management responsibilities related to the business to derive maximum value from the data available to the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jun 2022
How to perform a remote wipe of Office 365 on a smartphone
Employees like having email and other Office 365 applications on their smartphones. There are security risks that come with mobile devices accessing corporate data, however. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2022
icon
In today's age of technological advancement, most people recognize the word 'icon' as referring to a small selectable or nonselectable image representing or leading to something else in a computer's graphical user interface (GUI) or on the web. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jun 2022
calculator
A calculator is a device that performs arithmetic operations on numbers. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Jun 2022
micro USB
A micro USB is a miniaturized version of the Universal Serial Bus interface developed for connecting compact and mobile devices, such as smartphones, MP3 players, Global Positioning System devices, printers and digital cameras. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 May 2022
mobile computing
Mobile computing refers to the set of IT technologies, products, services and operational strategies and procedures that enable end users to access computation, information and related resources and capabilities while mobile. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 May 2022
How to add an Apple TV to Apple Business Manager
Apple Business Manager can provide some basic management functions for Apple TVs, and organizations need to make sure they configure the device properly. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 May 2022
Finding the right Apple TV management software
When organizations deploy Apple TV for digital signage or displaying business data, the IT department can't overlook the management of these devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 May 2022
How and when to set up Apple TV with a business account
While organizations can use a business Apple ID account, there are other options -- a personal Apple ID or even no Apple ID may suffice. Continue Reading
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News
13 May 2022
Google adds AI summary feature to Workspace
AI-generated meeting and document summaries can help workers find important information, according to Google. The company will add the feature to its Workspace apps. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 May 2022
What role can Apple TV serve within a business?
Apple TV can do a lot more than just stream movies to your TV. Learn how this set-top device can handle numerous multimedia tasks in a business setting. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 May 2022
field of view (FOV)
Field of view (FOV) is the open, observable area a person can see through their eyes or via an optical device, such as a camera. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2022
Arm processor
An Arm processor is one of a family of CPUs based on the RISC architecture for computer processors. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Apr 2022
microphone
A microphone is a device that translates sound vibrations in the air into electronic signals and scribes them to a recording medium or over a loudspeaker. Continue Reading
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News
11 Apr 2022
PC shipments slow, but the market remains strong
IDC reported that global PC shipments fell by 5% in the first three months, but vendors still shipped more than 80 million units for the seventh consecutive quarter. Continue Reading
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News
21 Mar 2022
Samsung top user interface available on non-flagship phones
Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets will get the One UI 4.1 user interface. The premium UI for the company's flagship phones offers screen sharing while on video calls. Continue Reading
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News
17 Mar 2022
Cisco adds ML to Meraki cameras to track objects
Cisco's MV Sense is available as a subscription with Meraki MV cameras. Companies can use the service to count boxes in a warehouse or track equipment on a factory floor. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Mar 2022
location-based service (LBS)
A location-based service (LBS) is a software service for mobile device applications that requires knowledge about where the mobile device is geographically located. Continue Reading
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News
11 Mar 2022
Magic Leap 2 takes on HoloLens in enterprise AR market
Magic Leap will launch the AR headset Magic Leap 2 by the end of September. The company must work quickly to compete in an increasingly crowded enterprise AR market. Continue Reading
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News
11 Mar 2022
Google improves Android message management
The latest Android update will sort text messages as business or personal and send reminders for unanswered messages. The update is for devices running Android 6 or higher. Continue Reading
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News
10 Mar 2022
Apple to launch iOS 15.4 with Tap to Pay, Face ID update
The last update to iOS 15 will include Tap to Pay, a mask-friendly Face ID, a new Siri voice, and the ability to store a driver's license or state ID in Wallet. Continue Reading
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News
09 Mar 2022
Apple's M1 Ultra delivers more power for creative pros
The latest iteration of Apple's proprietary chip will power the Mac Studio workstation, a replacement for the Mac Pro and the last model to get the M1 series chip. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
07 Mar 2022
Demand for effective telecom service assurance to increase
As the markets for 5G, IoT and other emerging technologies continue to grow, the service assurance market that ensures the quality of these services will also increase. Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2022
Lenovo unveils an Arm laptop with Microsoft Pluton security
The advanced security in Lenovo's ThinkPad X13s is through Qualcomm's Arm-based Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 chipset. Lenovo plans to ship the laptop this year. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Mar 2022
Understanding BYOD policy enforcement and creation
A well-defined BYOD policy is critical for any organization that allows consumer devices on the network. Communicating and enforcing the BYOD policy can prevent many problems. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2022
Samsung ditches Note, brings S Pen to flagship S series
The Galaxy S22 Ultra combines the Note's writing utensil and size with the S series' camera. The new smartphone has a starting price of $1,200. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Feb 2022
Microsoft Store
The Microsoft Store -- formerly called the Windows Store -- is an online marketplace for consumers to buy and download a variety of items. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jan 2022
AMD bolsters security, while Intel ups speed in latest chips
AMD's Ryzen 6000 series includes the Microsoft Pluton security processor, while Intel claims its Core i9-12900HK chip is the fastest mobile processor in the market. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Dec 2021
2D barcode (two-dimensional barcode)
A 2D (two-dimensional) barcode is a graphical image that stores information horizontally as one-dimensional barcodes do, as well as vertically. 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
22 Nov 2021
Apple self-service repair unlikely to help businesses
Experts believe small and medium-size businesses will continue using repair shops to fix Apple iPhones and Macs to avoid breaking and replacing the hardware. 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
04 Oct 2021
Disney adopts Amazon's white-label voice assistant for hotels
The "Hey Disney" voice assistant is the first use of Amazon's white-labeled voice assistant in a major hotel chain. It will coexist with Amazon's "Hey Alexa" in Echo devices. Continue Reading
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News
23 Sep 2021
Microsoft brings Thunderbolt to Surface computers
The high-speed Thunderbolt 4 port introduced in the Surface Laptop Studio and Surface Pro 8 will replace the USB-C ports found in older Surface computers. Continue Reading