Android has announced the launch of new features in its latest release, Android 15 for Business, aimed at adapting to the dynamic requirements of today’s workplace. As hybrid work continues to gain traction, with over 100 million professionals globally embracing flexible environments, organizations are increasingly seeking mobile technology that balances employee flexibility, robust security, and efficient device management.
The latest capabilities in Android 15 for Business deliver enterprise-grade security and simplified management options, equipping IT leaders to navigate the challenges of a distributed workforce. With enhanced device protection and improved management of corporate devices, Android 15 provides a comprehensive suite of solutions designed for the modern work setting.
Key Features of Android 15 for Business
Enhanced Employee and Device Protection
Android 15 presents an array of security and privacy features tailored to shield both corporate and personal data:
- Android Theft Protection: This suite includes the Theft Detection Lock, which uses machine learning to automatically lock a device upon detecting theft; Offline Device Lock, securing the device when disconnected from the network for long periods; and Remote Lock, enabling employees to lock their devices remotely if lost or stolen. These measures are available for devices operating on Android 10 and above.
- Private Space Within Personal Profile: Employees can set up a secure, private space within their profiles, requiring a password or biometric authentication for access. This ensures that sensitive personal applications on work devices remain secure during mobile use.
- Improved Audit Logging: Security events are transitioned from Logcat to SecurityLog, facilitating easier review of security logs by IT teams and ensuring compliance with standards such as those set by the National Information Assurance Partnership (NIAP).
Stronger Management of Company-Owned Devices
Android 15 enhances the management of corporate devices with new capabilities designed to boost operational efficiency:
- eSIM Management: IT teams now have the ability to programmatically provision and remove eSIMs on managed devices, simplifying the onboarding and offboarding process for employees while allowing them to maintain control of their personal devices.
- Security Restrictions for Apps: Companies can extend their security policies to applications within the personal profiles of company-owned devices, ensuring uniform security across both work and personal applications.
- Enforce Default Apps: Default applications for dialer, browser, and messaging can be enforced by IT teams within personal profiles on corporate devices, aligning with corporate security mandates.
- Circle to Search: This innovative feature enables employees to circle or underline content for an enhanced search experience within work applications, with the option for IT teams to disable it if needed.
- Extended Battery Life: IT administrators can customize various settings such as screen brightness and timeout durations to optimize energy use and prolong battery life for company-owned devices.
