As part of ongoing efforts to expand its business offerings, Apple has announced a new one-stop enterprise suite that integrates device management, communication tools, and business service into a single platform.
Called Apple Business, it includes a variety of free tools for businesses of all sizes, such as built-in mobile device management (MDM) – previously a subscription-based feature – that offers a comprehensive view of an organisation’s Apple devices, settings, and more. The “Blueprints” feature allows business owners or admins to “easily set up devices with preconfigured settings and apps”, while larger companies can manage app deployments via an API.
With this system, users will also have access to an employee directory, scheduling tools, and email and calendar services under the business’ domain. Registered accounts come with 5GB of free iCloud storage, alongside paid options for upgraded storage (up to 2TB per user) and AppleCare+ in the US. Employees can use the Apple Business companion app to install apps for work, find colleague contact details, or request support, and brands based in Canada and the US are able to manage their presence on Apple Maps through advertising.
According to the tech giant, ads will be clearly marked with a small blue halo around the pin on the map and and labelled as an ad in the list of Suggested Places. Businesses with an Apple Maps listing can choose when to start or stop their campaign at any time, after uploading photos, adding a promotional message, and setting a budget. To protect user privacy, all data are kept separate from their Apple Account and stored natively on the device.
The free-to-use Apple Business is coming to over 200 countries on 14 April, and will replace the existing Apple Business Essentials, Apple Business Manager, and Apple Business Connect services at launch.
Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.
