Many large enterprises have always had varying iterations of Mobile Management Service. However, SMBs rarely, if ever, have the resources to have such a platform. Now Google is stepping in with the service that is aimed specifically towards SMBs. Essentially, Google wants to provide SMBs with a simpler way to protect managed devices and secure company data.
What Is Google’s ‘Android Enterprise Essentials’ Mobile Management Service?
Android Enterprise Essentials is rolling out first in the US and UK via third-party distributors before expanding worldwide “early next year.” It is essentially a secure platform that aims to protect mobile devices under a single umbrella. Needless to add, these devices will have to run the Android operating system.
— onlinesitestore (@workonline44) December 1, 2020 Android Enterprise Essentials can also serve as a starting point for customers who want to try out simple management at first and potentially upgrade to more sophisticated management in the future. Some of the core features of Google’s service have clearly been derived from the full-fledged Android Enterprise offering that’s usually offered to large organizations. These include:
Requiring a lock screen and encryption on devices to prevent unauthorized access to company data.Enforcing mandatory malware protection by ensuring Google Play Protect is always on and employees can’t download apps outside of the Google Play Store.Providing the ability to wipe all company data from a device in case it’s lost or stolen.
Google indicated its primary intention is to offer a “critical set of default features designed for businesses with simpler needs and smaller budgets.” Interestingly, Google has also positioned the program for “larger organizations that want to extend core protections to devices which may not need advanced device management.”
Why Is Google Offering ‘Android Enterprise Essentials’ Mobile Management Service?
There are millions of Android smartphones currently operational. These devices are not only in the hands of end consumers but also employees of companies. These mobile phones have now become one of the most important tools of communication and needed constantly for office work. Given the current situation, business, and customer data residing on mobile devices has increased exponentially. Hence, there is now a much graver risk of a data breach and financial loss if such devices are lost or stolen.
— CS Threat Intel (@cipherstorm) December 1, 2020 Despite the clear and obvious risk factors, several SMBs often hesitate to invest in a reliable holistic secure platform for communication and data exchange. Companies often claim these platforms are complex and costly solutions. Hence, Google has stepped in to offer its own ‘Android Enterprise Essentials’. Incidentally, several core security features are applied automatically in Android OS. Hence, technically, companies needn’t spend a lot of time and resources to configure and do not need extensive management or training. It is interesting to note that there are several companies that are already offering their own solutions that rely heavily on the features built into Android. These companies offer managed services. Now Google is tapping into the revenue source.
