As everyone knows, Steve Jobs announced on Monday the iPhone 3G, set to be available July 11. I have written in the past that I have a lot of concerns regarding the viability of the device in the enterprise. However, the new device is quite compelling: updated OS, 3G, GPS, ActiveSync and Cisco VPN just to name a few of the new upgrades - all with a lower (subsidized) price. Yesterday, I had the pleasure to meet Mary Cronin from Code Spotter. Mary also teaches some classes at Boston College, my alma mater. While we discussed a broad range of topics in mobility, as true Eagles, we couldn't help but debate both sides of the iPhone 3G in the enterprise. Will Apple now "make it" in the enterprise?
Like I said, we both made arguments for and against the potential success of the iPhone 3G in the enterprise. For the sake of brevity, I'll share the Cons and let Mary share the Pros.
- Professionals are consumers. There's no doubt that the interface is slick and people want to use an attractive device. However, do you as an employee REALLY care what laptop they give you? No. As long as it's fast, stable and light enough, you're not going to say anything. Why should that be any different with a mobile device that you are probably not paying for?
- The keyboard. I've said it before, and I'll say it again. I can't use the iPhone's keyboard to save my life. Most professionals I know want and need a tactile keyboard.
- The AppStore. How many companies are going to want to sell enterprise grade apps via that channel? More importantly, how many companies are going to be willing to buy them there. SMBs perhaps? This brings me to point #4.
- Is the iPhone work ready? Sure. Is it ENTERPRISE ready? TBD. I do however think it is SMB ready. A small shop (i.e.: under 100 people) could very well decide to have it be a part of the mix.
- The IT department that is managing the applications on that device will now have to deal with another platform. The IT department is looking to makes it life easier, not more complicated.
- Remote wiping. I still haven't heard anything about that. The only thing I can assume is that there MAY be that functionality through MS Exchange, but I haven't seen anything one way or another. This would be a big red flag for me as an IT admin. Maybe it will play nicely with Microsoft's Mobile Device Manager???
So there you have just a few of the points that we covered in that conversation. I'll make sure to post a link to Mary's rebuttal once she has it up. Go Eagles!
