Unified communications (UC) provider Mitel on Monday announced another upgrade for its software. The platform now supports Apple iOS for the iPhone and iPad, used by a number of Mitels small and medium enterprise customers.

Mitel earlier this year introduced the Unified Communicator Advanced software that now supports devices including the Apple gadgets, the BlackBerry PlayBook and some Android phones and tablets. It also works with VMware for use on virtual desktops.

Now, UC Advanced users can download the Mitel Apple app to start connecting with the same voice, video, IM, conferencing and presence features as if they were at the office. Capabilities include:

Mitel said adding Apple to its lineup lets IT managers accommodate the bring-your-own-device, or BYOD, phenomenon now common in the workplace. The problem is, disparate gadgets can present security problems, for example. But building safeguards into a platform such as UC Advanced gives IT managers the control they need while allowing colleagues to use the devices of their choice.

Mitel distributes through resellers throughout the world.