How IT admins should think about a more open Apple

Europe’s Digital Markets Act is just one of a series of regulatory actions that are forcing Apple to open up its platforms. I caught up with Hexnode CEO Apu Pavithran to get his fix on what IT admins – especially those who manage Apple devices — need to think about as the company’s platforms are forced open by regulation.

The first thing to consider? It’s not just Apple that’s affected. “The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is reshaping the landscape for all the major tech players,” Pavithran said. “Companies like Meta, Alphabet, and ByteDance have also been deemed ‘gatekeepers’ under the DMA.”

The impact of an open Apple on IT

That means enterprises that rely on any of those platforms for business need to be aware and watchful for fast change. Managing changes as they go into effect becomes an additional task of time.

What benefits exist? The idea that users might gain more browser actions and more opportunity for choice and customization is one thing, but it is a big thing. While consumer users might opt for whatever option they want, those users in the enterprise could inadvertently create problems. 

As a result, Apple admins “must account for potential compatibility issues, security vulnerabilities, and user experience consistency,” Pavithran said. Beyond simple research, admins will have to identify new ways to manage and monitor these expanded choices. “My advice? Tread carefully,” he said.

Admins need to be proactive and adopt multiple layers to minimize any potential impacts. “This includes implementing endpoint management solutions, conducting regular audits, restricting non-vetted applications, and deploying automated threat detection systems,” Pavithran said. “Keeping firmware and apps updated, along with comprehensive employee education, will be crucial in this more open environment.

“Vigilance and adaptability are key.”

How opening Apple could threaten the enterprise

Pavithran knows that some enterprises have wanted more flexibility when it comes to app and service use and management on Apple platforms, and the move toward more openness might actually help there. But there’s a risk that such flexibility could compromise security and privacy, both of which are big reasons Apple’s platform sees so much use in the enterprise.

“If Apple manages this correctly, we could see its presence in the enterprise grow even further, as companies now have more control over which apps and services they can use on managed devices,” Pavithran said. “But, it should be said, these changes demand greater attention and focus from admins, and they may benefit from a unified console to enjoy such enhanced flexibility without sacrificing security or privacy.”

The introduction of support for third-party browsers could be another issue for enterprise admins. “Admins will need to evaluate each browser’s security protocols, compatibility with enterprise software, and adherence to corporate policies,” he said.

Will the opening of Apple weaken its platforms?

“This is the million dollar question,” said Pavithran. “We know that Apple will try its best to not let these changes get in the way of security and user experience. And we also know that Apple is prepared to introduce new protections on the back of enforced changes.”

Pavithran pointed to app notarization and other tools Apple has introduced in an attempt to ensure its customers are protected against rogue developers and payment systems. Well-intended as those attempts might be, “Europe isn’t making things easy for Apple,” he said, pointing to recent proceedings the bloc has taken against Apple.

The problem is that each new regulation and each new demand for further compromise serve to limit what Apple can do to protect its platforms. “Whatever happens next, the challenge will lie in how well Apple can balance this openness with the core values that make its ecosystem trusted and secure,” he explained.

Is Apple growing in the enterprise?

The Hexnode CEO joins the ever-growing chorus of voices who see Apple’s reach in enterprise computing on the rise. “We’ve seen Apple’s enterprise growth really take off, driven by their commitment to security, privacy, and seamless device integration. Despite the shifting regulatory landscape, I don’t see this slowing down,” he said. 

“As Apple continues to innovate and address enterprise concerns, expect adoption to accelerate further.” 

How should IT embrace Apple openness?

When it comes to balancing Apple’s reluctant openness with enterprise needs, what awareness should guide IT admin decisions? 

“IT should be vigilant but not overly restrictive,” said Pavithran. “Openness doesn’t automatically mean insecurity, but it does require more nuance. Stay informed about potential risks, align decisions with specific security protocols, and be aware of user behavior and the evolving threat landscape.”

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