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Google's Android for Work: A Blessing for Enterprises? - Analyst Blog

In an attempt to dig into the business class pockets, Google Inc. GOOGL has finally rolled out Android for Work. The concept of Android for Work was first announced 8 months back at the Google I/O conference.

Rajen Sheth, director of product management for Android at Work, envisions a user-friendly work-enabled Android mobile device in the hands of all employees.

However, such a feat is not achieved easily. Google will have to cajole IT managers to switch to Android from legacy Windows technology and will also have to contend with  Apple’s AAPL renewed focus on the space.

Android for Work

Android for Work comes with default encryption, augmented SElinux security enforcement. In particular, Android 5.0 Lollipop has a multi-user support unlike its predecessors. This enables users to store their data on the work platform under separate personal and work data categories. This feature ensures that the manager only checks for work data, and not the personal data of the users.

For phones running on older versions of the software, the Android for Work app needs to be downloaded from the Google Play Store.

Google will also offer Google Play for Work as part of its online app store for these work-related apps. This will simplify the process of distributing the app to other devices under a company’s management. It will also see whether the application is approved by the IT or not.

The Android for Work app is designed to deliver documents and access to work apps that are managed by the IT. It features a wide array of business applications integrated for multiple office-related tasks like editing documents, and preparing spreadsheets and presentations.

Looking Ahead

Along with Android for Work, Google has also made an enterprise push for Google Glass, its Web-connected headset. In fact, earlier this year, Google had cited its plans to discontinue the current Google Glass. The company, however, stated that it would continue to support the Glass at Work initiative.

Google also said that it eventually wants to extend this initiative to other Android-powered machines, like cash registers.

Only time will tell what Android for Work has in store for Google. Nevertheless, we can’t but agree to what Sheth has said – that Google is definitely making it more and more tempting to say yes to Android.

Google currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Stocks that Warrant a Look

Better-ranked stocks in the industry include PetMed Express Inc PETS and Autobytel Inc. ABTL. Both carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).


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APPLE INC (AAPL): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
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AUTOBYTEL INC (ABTL): Free Stock Analysis Report
 
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