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
-
Feature
04 Apr 2024
The ultimate guide to mobile device security in the workplace
Mobile devices provide connectivity for employees to access business data and communicate with colleagues, but these unique benefits come with specific security challenges for IT. Continue Reading
-
Feature
28 Mar 2024
What BYOD trends will take hold in the business world?
As employees and organizations come to expect greater mobility, BYOD is an important consideration in the successful planning and execution of the remote and hybrid workplace. Continue Reading
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
Blog Post
07 Jun 2019
New iOS features and other announcements from Apple WWDC 2019
At its Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple announced new iOS features for iOS 13, an entirely new OS exclusively for iPads, iPadOS, and other interesting product news. Learn more about these ... Continue Reading
-
News
05 Jun 2019
Apple iPadOS brings new features, plus more from WWDC
At the WWDC 2019 keynote, Apple unveiled iPadOS, an operating system specifically for iPads, along with a new Mac Pro, macOS Catalina, new iOS 13 features and watchOS 6. Continue Reading
-
Tip
31 May 2019
Smartphone lifecycle plans are crucial in today's workplace
When IT creates a smartphone lifecycle policy, it must factor in its available resources and its users' needs. Learn why these policies are necessary and how IT should design them. Continue Reading
-
News
29 May 2019
Intel 10th Gen CPUs are here, AMD follows with 3rd Gen Ryzen
Intel's 10th Gen CPUs, codenamed Ice Lake, are available now, and the 7nm AMD 3rd Gen Ryzen lineup will be available on July 7. Both releases will increase competition among chip vendors. Continue Reading
-
News
22 May 2019
Apple's 8-core MacBook Pro is Apple's fastest laptop yet
Apple introduced its newly updated 13- and 15-inch MacBook Pros, including Apple's first 8-core laptop, that are up to twice as fast as previous models, according to the vendor. Continue Reading
-
News
21 May 2019
Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 resurrects AR for Google
At $999, the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 for businesses promises better performance, battery life, camera quality and style than its consumer-focused 2013 edition. Continue Reading
-
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
-
News
14 May 2019
Lenovo launches AR for the workplace with ThinkReality
Lenovo announced ThinkReality A6, its new head-mounted AR product. It was designed specifically with the workforce in mind to increase time and cost efficiency. Continue Reading
-
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
-
News
14 May 2019
Dell Latitude PCs get redesign with IT, mobile workforce in mind
Dell's Latitude PCs get a new look and new features that could make it easier for IT admins to support a mobile workforce, according to analysts. Continue Reading
-
Tip
10 May 2019
How AI chatbots for enterprise use can help mobile admins
Mobile chatbots that include AI technologies can help organizations simplify user and IT workflows. Learn exactly how these chatbots can fit within a mobility management strategy. Continue Reading
-
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
-
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
-
Opinion
30 Apr 2019
Blue Cedar launches BlackBerry Accelerator for automatic MAM SDK integration
Mobile app management SDKs and app wrapping are a large total addressable market in the enterprise. The BlackBerry Accelerator joins other tech for automatic SDK integration. Continue Reading
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
News
12 Apr 2019
New AMD Ryzen PRO, Athlon PRO processors added to AMD lineup
AMD claims the second-generation AMD Ryzen PRO 3000 series and Athlon PRO 300 series will outperform competition in graphics performance, battery life and security in business-grade laptops. Continue Reading
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
News
04 Mar 2019
Microsoft HoloLens 2 headset brings AR to enterprises
The Microsoft HoloLens 2 headset is here, with updated specs and new features built from Microsoft's enterprise cloud offerings. It supports Windows Core OS and brings AR to IoT. Continue Reading
-
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
-
News
26 Feb 2019
Samsung Galaxy S10 phones coming with 5G, Wi-Fi 6 and more
Here's what you need to know about the new line of Samsung Galaxy S10 phones, including the S10, S10+, S10e and S10 5G. Continue Reading
-
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
-
Opinion
28 Jan 2019
Mobile SSO: “It works on PC” just isn’t good enough
Jon Towles explains how to make seamless SSO work on iOS and shares a few thoughts on his favorite identity platforms. Continue Reading
-
Opinion
24 Jan 2019
Enterprise-signed iOS apps on unmanaged devices is a pain. How should we proceed?
It’s worth it to see if you can make the alternatives (public distribution or avoiding BYOD) work instead for your enterprise apps for iOS. Continue Reading
-
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
-
Opinion
09 Jan 2019
How do you block sideloaded app installation on iOS or Android?
It’s super easy for someone to download sideloaded apps onto their devices these days, so is it easy for corporations to block them, too? Continue Reading