While enterprises, big or small, are adapting quickly to enterprise mobility, they are also finding it difficult to manage mobile devices. Enterprises prefer Android devices for work, followed by iOS devices. Previously, organizations used the Device Administration API, which was available for Android 2.2 and was released in 2010, to provide a support system for enterprise applications.
However, after the advancements in mobile technology, organizational needs increased, and that demanded stringent Android MDM solutions and security systems. Mobility at work was significantly simplified once Google initiated the Android Enterprise program. We need to understand clearly what Android Enterprise is and how its integration and support have redefined Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM).
What is Android Enterprise?
In 2014, Google initiated Android Enterprise, also known as “Android for Work” (AfW), with Android Lollipop (5.0), an improved framework for managing the devices that facilitated the differentiation of personal and work data and enhanced security.
Thereafter, in 2015, with the release of Android 6.0, AFW became available and is being consistently improved with every incremental Android release for granular control over data and apps.
Google renamed “Android for Work” to simply “Android.”. It is an umbrella term that includes management and security features available in every Android OS release. However, when we’re talking about the specific functionality of Android in a business setting, we may refer to it as “Android Enterprise” or “Android in the Enterprise.”. Likewise, when talking about managing business apps in Google Play, we may refer to it as “Managed Google Play”. Your services and pricing remain the same.
How Android Enterprise was introduced?
Google has always been thoughtful about how enterprises can best leverage its Android operating system for business. Today, Android is gaining ground as one of the most preferred operating systems, which is powering a number of devices like smartphones, tablets, mPOS, digital signage, and Android-based RFID readers. Thanks to the introduction of Android Enterprise (formerly known as Android for Work). Google introduced Android Enterprise to eliminate real-world enterprise problems and challenges around device security, data protection, device management, and application usage.
Why Android Enterprise is needed?
Even though Android holds 80% of the total global smartphone market, companies have avoided Android adoption, mainly due to concerns about data security and insufficient management capabilities. Google’s Android Enterprise has changed that by introducing major improvements in management functionalities and business security. Google had tirelessly worked on improving its versions and ensured its consequential success with enterprises.
The enhanced version possessed varied enterprise-level features that enabled company IT teams to seamlessly enroll, provision and manage company devices through third-party EMM vendors. The significance and role of Android Enterprise are most prominent in companies that embrace and include an active BYOD policy, enabling employees to work from their personal devices.
The Scalefusion edge with AER
Scalefusion leverages Android Enterprise to offer tailored management for both BYOD and COPE, ensuring security and control as per business needs.
| Feature | Android Enterprise for BYOD | Android Enterprise for COPE |
| Purpose | Securely enables employees to use personal devices for work | Provides full or partial control over company-owned devices |
| Profile separation | Creates a separate work profile from personal data | Can be fully managed or have a work profile for personal use |
| Control & management | IT admins manage only the work profile | IT admins control the entire device or just the work profile |
| Security policies | Work data is containerized to prevent leaks | Strict policies applied at device or work profile level |
| Use cases | Ideal for employees using personal Android devices for work | Suitable for corporate-issued or dedicated business devices |
| Policy enforcement | Security settings apply only to work data & apps | IT can enforce full-device policies, lock apps, or apply kiosk mode |
| Remote wipe | IT can wipe only the work profile if needed | IT can fully wipe the device or just the work profile |
| Dedicated use cases | Not applicable | Supports kiosk mode, mPOS, rugged devices, and digital signage |
| User experience | Seamless transition between work & personal use | Work and personal use can be separated or fully managed based on policy |
| Best for | Companies implementing BYOD securely | Businesses deploying corporate-owned devices with strong security |
Key features of Android Enterprise
Android Enterprise equips businesses with the right tools to manage Android devices efficiently, keeping work data secure and employees productive. Here’s what it brings to the table:
- Enroll many devices efficiently: Tailor device management to match your business needs—secure work data or lock down devices for dedicated use. Set security policies, manage apps, and control user access effortlessly.
- QR enrolling: Easily enroll your mobile devices by scanning a QR code provided by your EMM provider.
- Work profile: Set up a dedicated work profile on employee-owned devices to keep business and personal data separate. Seamlessly distribute and manage work apps via Google Play for Business.
- Security: Strengthen security by enforcing strong passwords and encryption to prevent unauthorized access. In case of loss or theft, remotely wipe devices to protect business data. Ensure device integrity with Android Verified Boot, preventing software tampering and unauthorized modifications.
- Flexibility: Android Enterprise works across a wide range of devices from different manufacturers, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Customize the experience with lock screen messages, wallpapers, and other branding options. With powerful management tools, it helps businesses of all sizes get the most out of their Android devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Android Enterprise?
Android Enterprise is a set of tools and features that help businesses manage Android devices. It provides secure device management, app management, and more, to optimize workflows in a corporate environment.
2. How much does Android Enterprise cost?
The cost of Android Enterprise varies depending on the deployment and features required. For detailed pricing, it’s best to consult with the vendor offering Android Enterprise solutions.
3. What are the benefits of Android Enterprise management?
Android Enterprise management offers centralized control over Android devices, ensuring security, app distribution, and device compliance, which enhances efficiency and protects corporate data.
4. What is Android corporate device management?
Android corporate device management allows businesses to manage and secure devices used for corporate purposes. This includes remote management, app control, and policy enforcement to ensure compliance and security.
