Apple Launches Subscription Service for Small Businesses
Apple has unveiled Apple Business Essentials, a new subscription service for small enterprises. The solution, which combines device management, iCloud storage, and Apple support, is tailored to small enterprises with up to 500 employees.
The program, which is now in beta, assists with employee onboarding and device maintenance, such as setting up a work device or performing essential upgrades.
IT workers can define settings and apps for individual employees or groups of employees using the Collections component of the service. When employees come into a device with their work credentials, Collections can automatically push VPN settings or Wi-Fi passwords.
AppleCare+ is an add-on that provides businesses and their employees with 24/7 phone support, as well as IT training, device repairs, and other services.
“Small businesses are at the core of our economy, and we’re proud that Apple products play a role in helping these companies grow,” said Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Enterprise and Education Marketing.
“Apple Business Essentials is designed to help streamline every step of employee device management within a small business — from setup, onboarding, and upgrading, to accessing fast service and prioritized support, all while keeping data backed up and secure, so companies can focus on running their business,” she continued.
Apple Business Essentials will soon be offered in three different plan options, starting at $2.99 USD per month. Up to three devices can be supported by one plan.
Apple has also released a new Apple Business Essentials app, which gives users easy access to the service.