Apple @ Work is brought to you by Mosyle, the leader in modern mobile device management and security (MDM) for Apple customers in business and education. More than 22,000 businesses use Mosyle solutions to automate the management and security of millions of Apple devices every day. Request a FREE account today and find out how you can put your Apple fleet on autopilot at a price that’s hard to believe.
A few weeks ago, Apple announced a new commercial program: Apple Business Essentials which was designed to make it easier to deploy, manage, and secure Apple devices for business customers. After studying the program, I think it will end up fundamentally changing the way small businesses use Apple products.
MDM for everyone
There is no shortage of mobile device management providers. However, Apple offering a proprietary solution integrated with Apple Business Manager will make it easier to get started with device management for small businesses.
I think this will ultimately lead to companies looking for dedicated suppliers in the future and looking for more specialized solutions.
Apple said ABE is designed for businesses up to 500 people, but I think much smaller organizations are using it. So what I see happening is that as a small business starts purchasing Apple products, it integrates with Apple’s new MDM and sets up a device management process right from the start. start.
On-site repairs solve critical remote work issues
The most important aspect of Apple Business Essentials is solving device repair issues for remote organizations. I have discussed this issue at length since the start of the pandemic and remote working has become a permanent reality. At launch, this service will only include iOS devices, but I expect Macs to be covered soon.
For remote organizations that rely on iOS devices, AppleCare + for Business Essentials will be a must have In my opinion.
A new AppleCare + for Business Essentials option adds 24/7 phone support for IT teams and end users, and up to two device repairs per plan each year. End users can initiate repairs directly from the new Apple Business Essentials app, and an Apple-trained technician will be on-site in under four hours to repair devices. AppleCare + for Business Essentials is not available during the free beta period.
If an employee has a hardware issue with the device, IT can instruct them on how to initiate a repair with an Apple-trained technician that will take place the same business day.
I would like to see a warranty of a working device within a certain time frame, even if it means an on-site exchange as a loan.
Apple hasn’t announced pricing for AppleCare + for Business Essentials, but I think it will be hugely popular for remote organizations.
Can iCloud Drive possibly replace Box, OneDrive, and Google Drive?
Apple’s enterprise offerings have generally always needed a software layer of productivity, but I don’t think Apple likes that reality, however. Apple has always wanted to have the entire experience.
With the storage increases built into Apple Business Essentials, I think iCloud Drive can become an enterprise file management solution. Apple will need to integrate auditing tools, recovery options, and centralized shared folders to achieve this goal.
Can Apple Business Essentials continue to evolve?
As I said at the outset, the service is designed for businesses of up to 500 people. Obviously, a business of this size is no longer a small business. However, I believe this service is the first iteration of a long-term plan to deliver end-to-end business solutions designed for businesses of all sizes.
I am excited about the integrated MDM solution so that more companies can secure their entire fleet. On-site repair options solve a vital problem with remote work companies. Additionally, the included 24/7 phone support options can help create the first line of defense for IT support services for the initial troubleshooting of Mac and iOS.
For companies deploying Apple products, this service is definitely something to watch out for, and I think it’s going to be very popular.
FTC: We use automatic affiliate links which generate income. Following.
Check out 9to5Mac on YouTube for more Apple news:
