Why iPhone isn’t enterprise ready
by Yves Neidlinger on 10/02/09 at 7:11 pm
Yves Neidlinger is a technologist and a social media and marketing consultant. He is the National Channel Manager for Navara and the founder and Editor in Chief of iPhoneCTO.
The 451 Group, a technology analyst company, held a webinar today on iPhone in the enterprise. While the research report itself is available for purchase, the webinar today gave a high overview of key findings on iPhone’s standing in the enterprise.
Apple’s uber-popular phone has been a resounding success as a consumer device, but it has yet to earn its corporate chops. It is increasingly showing up at work and is a favorite of executives who are requesting IT support it. The large touch screen, elegant user interface, Exchange support, robust surfing experience and access to over 20,000 applications are just a few of the reasons iPhone appeals to business users. That being said, iPhone has a ways to go. The study revealed many limitations in the device’s current form that are holding it back from corporate acceptance.
Mentioned during the presentation were Apple’s restrictive application approval and distribution systems. iTunes is the only distribution channel for applications and while it works for consumers, it is a drawback for business. For one thing, it makes it difficult for developers to price and distribute their applications. How do you handle monthly billing and install applications on 5000 iPhones?
Security is another current limitation. While iPhone does offer remote wipe and enforced security policies, it lacks credible on device security features. Additionally, deploying mobile devices in large numbers requires remote management tools. Offerings from Kaseya, Trust Digital, Kace and NetScout are just coming to market.
Surprisingly, two of the most common complaints users have of iPhone were barely mentioned. I’m referring to the difficulty users have typing emails with the virtual keyboard and lack of cut and paste. We covered these issues here.
The conclusion of the report is that iPhone is not enterprise ready. While iPhoneCTO is dedicated to covering iPhone in the enterprise, we have to agree with the 451 Group’s assessment. That being said, BlackBerry has been on the market ten years and iPhone a little over 18 months. The battle has just begun.
