Mobile Device Management: ManageEngine Meets Apple iOS 6

ManageEngine's Desktop Central platform is gaining a mobile device management (MDM) enhancement for Apple iOS 6 (at launch) and Google Android (shortly after launch). Like many MSP software providers, ManageEngine believes customers and MSPs want a single interface to manage all infrastructure -- networks, servers, desktops and smartphones and tablets.

In addition to the iOS 6 support, ManageEngine says Desktop Central now offers integrated chat and support for Microsoft Windows 8 and Windows Server 2012 patch management, software deployment, asset management, remote control, power management, configuration management, and USB device management.

Plus, ManageEngine says the MDM add-on allows MSPs and customers to:

• create an application repository of both in-house and App Store apps
• distribute applications to individual devices and groups
• remove apps from individual devices or groups

Desktop Central 8 is available immediately, starting at $10 per computer annually for the Professional Edition. The MDM add-on module support is available on all the editions, and prices start at $15 per device annually. A Free Edition of Desktop Central manages up to 25 computers and two mobile devices.

No doubt, most MSPs are still formulating MDM and mobile application management strategies. MSPmentor has predicted that standalone MDM platforms, while popular today, will merge with broader IT management platforms and/or existing MSP software platforms.

Most of the major MSP software providers now offer or plan to offer MDM capabilities.