Android for Work sees Google target enterprise mobile users

android tablet and phone

Google and BlackBerry are teaming up on security for Android for Work, as the search giant gears up to win over more of the enterprise market with its mobile offerings.

Devices using Google's Android for Work a platform that allows enterprise customers to separately secure their phone's business and personal data and apps will have BlackBerry's BES12 cross-platform EMM security solution enabled.

Billy Ho, executive vice president of enterprise products and value added solutions at BlackBerry, said: "BlackBerry is working with Google to provide customers with solutions they can confidently deploy on all major mobile platforms within their organisation.

"Android for Work with BES12 will provide customers with another option to enhance their mobile security and the productivity of their employees, and the peace of mind that they will not have to relinquish any control over corporate data, sacrifice user experience or introduce more complexity into their environments."

The platform caters towards the rise of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) schemes, with users able to create and secure unique profiles for home and work on their Android phone or tablet.

"Together with a wide range of management, application and device makers, we believe the Android for Work programme provides businesses and workers with the choice and flexibility they need to get things done at work," said Rajen Sheth, director of product management for Android for Work and Chrome for Work.

Users will be able to download a dedicated Android for Work app (if not running on Android Lollipop), and explore a suite of business apps that includes email, contacts and calendar tools.

Caroline Preece

Caroline has been writing about technology for more than a decade, switching between consumer smart home news and reviews and in-depth B2B industry coverage. In addition to her work for IT Pro and Cloud Pro, she has contributed to a number of titles including Expert Reviews, TechRadar, The Week and many more. She is currently the smart home editor across Future Publishing's homes titles.

You can get in touch with Caroline via email at caroline.preece@futurenet.com.