Apple @ Work is proudly presented by Mosyle, the sole Apple Unified Platform. Mosyle provides a comprehensive solution that combines all the tools needed to efficiently and automatically deploy, manage, and safeguard Apple devices in the workplace. Over 45,000 organizations rely on Mosyle to prepare millions of Apple devices with minimal effort and at a reasonable cost. Take advantage of your EXTENDED TRIAL today and discover why Mosyle is your ultimate solution for working with Apple.
For nearly two decades, Google has strategically forged its place in the enterprise sector, commencing with a significant launch in 2006. During that summer, Google unveiled Google Apps for Your Domain, the initial version of what would evolve into Google Workspace. This pioneering version enabled businesses, educational institutions, and organizations to utilize Gmail, Calendar, and Docs on their personalized domains. It was a revolutionary step at the time, providing a straightforward yet powerful alternative to conventional email hosting services and facilitating the deployment of Chromebooks.
About Apple @ Work: Bradley Chambers oversaw an enterprise IT network from 2009 to 2021. Drawing from his experience in deploying and managing firewalls, switches, a mobile device management system, enterprise-grade Wi-Fi, thousands of Macs, and iPads, Bradley will share insights on how Apple IT managers implement Apple devices, establish supportive networks, educate users, recount stories from the field of IT management, and explore potential enhancements Apple could make to its products tailored for IT departments.
Google’s early decision to provide a free plan distinguished it from competitors. This strategic choice attracted budget-conscious organizations eager to transition from on-premises email hosting or consumer-grade services (like [email protected]) without incurring extra costs. By delivering robust email hosting linked to custom domains at no charge, Google quickly established credibility and gained traction in the enterprise productivity arena.
As time progressed, this approach yielded positive results, leading to the evolution of Google’s services under the names G Suite and subsequently Google Workspace. Nowadays, Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 lead the cloud email market, with their feature-rich platforms serving as the preferred email and collaboration systems for businesses globally. Google’s initial focus on simplicity and affordability has greatly influenced the current cloud productivity landscape.
While alternatives like Proton Mail, Spike for Teams, FastMail, and others have entered the market with distinct offerings, they have not disrupted the supremacy of the “big two.” Nevertheless, Apple might possess the foundation necessary to propose a novel option for businesses.
The essential components are in place
In 2021, Apple introduced custom email domains for iCloud+, marking a small but impactful step. This feature empowers users to host personalized email addresses with Apple, yet its primary focus has remained on individuals and families. Despite this, it suggests a larger potential, in my view.
Apple’s Managed Apple Accounts—currently employed in educational and enterprise settings—could seamlessly integrate with iCloud’s email hosting features. The necessary infrastructure is already established, and Apple has demonstrated a commitment to catering to business clients through its emphasis on enterprise device management and support.
While developing a fully-fledged competitor to Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 may be ambitious, Apple doesn’t necessarily need to aim that high. Instead, the company could define itself as a more streamlined and cohesive solution for organizations that are already embedded in Apple’s ecosystem.
A complementary, not competing approach
Organizations that embrace Apple hardware—utilizing iPhones, iPads, and Macs—could reap the benefits of an integrated email and productivity solution. It wouldn’t require a feature-for-feature match with Google or Microsoft. Instead, Apple could offer a unique solution: an email hosting and collaboration suite closely intertwined with macOS, iOS, and iPadOS. Consider it Apple’s strategy to enhance the IT experience for companies that are already invested in its devices.
An Apple-centric email and collaboration suite could serve as an excellent option for small businesses, educational institutions, or creative teams that prioritize simplicity and privacy. It could integrate native applications like Mail, Calendar, and Notes with iCloud’s current capabilities, fostering a streamlined experience without unnecessary complications. Concurrently, it would connect seamlessly with Managed Apple Accounts and Apple Business Manager.
2025 appears to be the ideal year for a business email solution launch
With Apple’s increasing emphasis on enterprise features—such as enhanced MDM tools and tighter integration with business processes—it seems more feasible than ever that the company might launch a basic business email hosting solution. This wouldn’t overshadow Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, but it doesn’t need to. Apple’s strength lies in delivering polished, user-friendly solutions that complement its hardware.
If 2025 is the year Apple decides to act, it could signify a pivotal shift in how organizations perceive business email and collaboration. Apple doesn’t need to outperform Google and Microsoft; it just needs to give its customers another reason to stay within the ecosystem they already trust.
Apple @ Work is proudly presented by Mosyle, the sole Apple Unified Platform. Mosyle provides a comprehensive solution that combines all the tools needed to efficiently and automatically deploy, manage, and safeguard Apple devices in the workplace. Over 45,000 organizations rely on Mosyle to prepare millions of Apple devices with minimal effort and at a reasonable cost. Take advantage of your EXTENDED TRIAL today and discover why Mosyle is your ultimate solution for working with Apple.
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