Android, at work – Computer Point

Rome – Google wants to launch Android on the labor market: he did it with a solution that sounds like a statement of intent, Android for Work.
Announcing the launch of the program was Rajen Sheth, Head of Division Android and Chrome for Work : it is a program created to exploit the spread of Android and to try to do so become a useful tool in the workplace .

As Facebook is trying to do with his Facebook at Work, that is developing a version of its social network cropped on need and useful content in the workplace, the stage that otherwise would be foreclosed, and attempting to compete both with services such as Linkedin and with the communication tools already offered by Microsoft and IBM, therefore, Android aims to broaden its market (at least potentially) looking to the offices. That in many cases, on the other hand, represent the place where users spend most of the day, and where people use their communication tools.

If Facebook works by reducing bone its platform so turn it into something useful in the office (as a communication system, for example), Google strives to enrich it with a set of tools to use at work, all tied to Android as a microcosm and managed through Google Play for Work : This “enables companies to deploy and manage secure applications for all users” connected, simplifying the process of distribution of the app to employees and ensuring that each app used to be approved by the IT department .

Among the app for download, there is a real professional suite “to manage email, contacts and calendar” and edit documents, spreadsheets and presentations. Everything moves by the tendency to solutions BYOD ( Bring Your Own Device ), but mostly by security: it promises an encryption system and improved security features enhanced SELinux.

At this it adds multi-user support in Android 5.0 Lollipop, dedicated to create professional profiles “can isolate and protect data”, but also “to separate the operating system level private life and the workplace.”

For Ice Cream Sandwich devices and Kitkat, or who are born without a job profiles, has introduced Android App for Work that guarantees a secure email, calendar, contacts, documents, Internet browsing, and access to Professional app approved and that can be fully managed by the IT department .

Claudio Tamburrino