Research In Motion, the makers of BlackBerry smartphones have purchased Ubitexx with the goal of adding mobile device management for iOS and Google Android mobile devices via a single console.
Ubitexx are a successful software developer and this takeover will help RIM develop custom solutions for enterprise customers to securely manage Apple iOS and Android devices. The details of the buyout, including financial information has not yet been made clear.
RIM will assuredly be augmenting their Blackberry Enterprise Server, a package which works as a gatekeeper for corporate data exchanged by Blackberry devices, to protect Apples iPhone and iPad, as well as other Android devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S range.
This should mean that a single console in the hands of IT administrators will be able to handle cross platform updates and policy management. Admins will also be able to activate devices and force software updates over the wireless networks and even lock and wipe devices, reset passwords and manage specific applications from the console system.
RIM have made it clear however that specific functionality such as push technology and IT policies will remain exclusive to BlackBerry products, obviously treading the line between supporting other companies hardware while offering unique functionality of their own hardware to fuel sales.
RIM's vice president of handheld software product management Andrew Bocking said that the takeover is a key element of RIM's plans for a multi platform BlackBerry Enterprise Solution. RIM are now aware that staff want to use their iPads, iPhones and Google Android phones as a business device, and we can see a single solution proving popular with many corporations across the globe. It is important for IT administrators to protect company data from the wrong hands, and control over cross platform software on devices is a huge asset for a business.
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