iOS 7 vs Android 4.3: Which OS is best for business?

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With Google and Apple both rolling out new mobile operating system updates, we take a look at their business benefits.

iOS 7 is a much larger update to Apple's mobile OS and features a full overhaul of the user experience, including new icons and the core apps. But there's a whole lot more on offer in iOS 7 for business users than a new look and feel for the mobile operating system.

Apple now allows companies to control which apps and accounts can be used to open documents and attachments. Previously, attachments could be opened in any app installed on the device.

Many of the features Apple has introduced in iOS 7 are already available on Android.

A sharing panel allows IT managers to set the verified applications up and block personal attachments from being opened in managed apps.

It's similar to the Restricted Profiles update in Android 4.3, but a little more limiting. Great for business-only devices, but it may cause issues for companies that have embraced the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) trend if employees use a single device for business and pleasure.

If you need a secure network connection for certain apps, you can set a device running iOS 7 to automatically connect to your company's VPN as soon as they are launched. Opposed to opening them first and being told they require a VPN connection to operate.

Apple's App Store Volume Purchase Program (VPP) allows you to assign apps to business users after you've purchased them through the VPP website, too.

Once the licenses have been purchased, they can be rolled out over the air to individual devices via MDM or the employee can install it using their own Apple ID, without having to share their details with an IT admin.

In fact, most of the MDM services have been improved in iOS 7, allowing an IT manager to wirelessly set up managed apps, install custom fonts, configure accessibility options and printers via AirPlay.

Furthermore, if the company owns the devices, they can be automatically enrolled in MDM during activation.

Clare Hopping
Clare Hopping
Freelance writer

Clare is the founder of Blue Cactus Digital, a digital marketing company that helps ethical and sustainability-focused businesses grow their customer base.

Prior to becoming a marketer, Clare was a journalist, working at a range of mobile device-focused outlets including Know Your Mobile before moving into freelance life.

As a freelance writer, she drew on her expertise in mobility to write features and guides for ITPro, as well as regularly writing news stories on a wide range of topics.