Strategic Smartphone Management for Businesses

Smartphones for business use need a different type of device management that BYOD or COPE methods simply can’t handle. Whether you’re all Android, all iPhone, or a mixture of both, a next-generation approach to managing the smartphones your business depends on is the efficiency upgrade to take you to the next level. 

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Choosing the right smartphonesManaging my smartphones

Choosing the right smartphones

Smartphones for business use cases

Smartphones: You know them, you love them, you can’t live without them. These feature-packed communication hubs are one of the most popular company owned and managed devices for business use cases out there. And with good reason. They’re incredibly versatile, as portable as a sandwich (but not nearly as edible), and keep you in the mix when you’re on the go.

But there are some downsides here, like the higher risk of losing a smartphone. It’s much harder to misplace something like a kiosk than a smartphone. And then there are the times you drop a smartphone a few inches from the ground and somehow shatter the entire screen. (If this happens often, consider a rugged version.) Everyone has flaws, okay? But it’s still worth considering this ultra-compact powerhouse for your use case. To make it short and sweet:

Tablets

Pros
Incredibly versatile
Infinitely portable
Very cost-effective
Cons
May need extra peripherals to do everything needed
Smaller devices are easier to misplace or are often theft risks

Kiosks

Pros
Highly effective for single-use applications where a tablet won’t cut it
Purpose-driven
Cons
Difficult to repurpose
Expensive

Smartphones

Pros
Wide variety of hardware choices
Small, portable form factor
Rugged options
Cons
Easily lost, stolen, or damaged (for non-rugged)
May require more peripherals for full functionality

Smartphones vs. Tablets: Which Is Right for Your Business?

Smartphones and tablets are both incredibly versatile devices and work well across a variety of business use cases, from mPOS to mobile ordering. While there is some overlap between them in terms of functionality, there are some notable differences. Use our cheat sheet below to determine which best suits your needs.

Advantages

  • It’s smaller:
    mPOS can be a smartphone, a tablet, or a standalone unit based on a smartphone form factor. Any of these are more compact than a big, bulky POS system.
  • Portability:
    ‍    Going to trade shows where you plan on selling goods? Take your mPOS. Want to set up shop on the sidewalk because it’s a nice day? Your mPOS has your back. Decide to close up your restaurant and buy a food truck instead? You won’t need to change your POS system.
  • It’s easy to use:
    ‍    You can use your smartphone, right? Then you can use an mPOS. In many cases, it’s just an app that runs on the device (though dedicated mPOS devices also exist!), so it’s intuitive. Plus, you won’t have to manage it yourself since the mPOS service provider will almost certainly have robust support options.
  • It’s secure:
    ‍    mPOS is more secure than a traditional POS system because it’s completely cloud-based. That means none of the data — credit card or customer information, for example — is stored locally. For a deeper look at mPOS security, check out this whitepaper.
  • It’s automated:
    ‍    No need to manually generate revenue reports, manage bank accounts, or the like. It’s all seamless and simple with an mPOS system.
  • Customers love it (and so will you):
    ‍    At this point, customers are very used to mPOS systems and many likely prefer it overall. With many mPOS systems, the customer’s email address and phone number are attached to their credit card, which makes digital receipts, returns, and customer history dead simple.

Disadvantages

  • Portable = breakable:
    Have you ever dropped an old-school POS and broken it? Probably not, because it’s largely stationary. An mPOS though? Drops happen. Better get a ruggedized case.
  • High cost to replace:
    ‍    What happens when you break that high-dollar mPOS tablet? You have to replace it. That can be costly depending on which model you’re using. While traditional POS systems are more expensive, they’re also far less likely to get damaged, making replacement cost more of a consideration for an mPOS system.
  • Support lifetime:
    There are plenty of old-school POS systems still in use today, but mPOS systems won’t have the same lifecycle. They’re not designed to stay in service indefinitely and have limited support lifetimes, so they’ll have to be replaced regularly for cybersecurity purposes.

Rugged devices are best for:

  • Durability:
    Rugged devices have the durability you wish hard shell tacos did.  While hard shell tacos can’t even be held without falling apart, rugged devices are purpose-built to withstand the harshest conditions, such as extreme temps, moisture, dust, and potential drops, in the toughest environments, like construction sites, manufacturing floors, and outdoor fieldwork.
  • Lower TCO in the long term:
    ‍    Rugged devices are often more expensive at first, but their durability can mean savings in the long run thanks to their reduced risk of damage and longer lifespans. It’s like a horror movie in reverse. The jump scare is up front, then it’s smooth sailing.
  • Extended battery life:
    ‍    If a device goes down and no one is around to see it, does it really go down? Yes, yes it does. That’s why rugged devices often come with a longer battery life so they can operate for extended periods in remote places where charging isn’t easily accessible. 

Consumer-grade devices in a rugged case are best for

  • Cost savings:
    ‍    There are cost savings to be reaped here, both in the short and long term. A rugged case is less expensive than a rugged device, making it cheaper up front, and the added protection makes the device more durable than an uncased device, reducing maintenance and replacement expenses.
  • Support lifetime:
    ‍    There are plenty of old-school POS systems still in use today, but mPOS systems won’t have the same lifecycle. They’re not designed to stay in service indefinitely and have limited support lifetimes, so they’ll have to be replaced regularly for cybersecurity purposes.

Consumer-grade devices are best for 

  • Lower initial costs:
    Consumer-grade devices tend to be a more budget-friendly choice. This is great for those with smaller spending power, but be aware the cost of damage or replacement could be greater in the long run.
  • Ease of use:
    ‍    No bulky or heavy cases here, just slim and lightweight devices. The user experience can be more mobile and carefree— unless, of course, you drop it.
  • Future-proofing:
    ‍    Consumer-grade devices are the favorite child in the device world. They bask in constant attention, enjoying frequent updates that keep them at the cutting edge of functionality and ahead of their rugged counterparts. 

Smartphones vs. Tablets: Which Is Right for Your Business?

Smartphones and tablets are both incredibly versatile devices and work well across a variety of business use cases, from mPOS to mobile ordering. While there is some overlap between them in terms of functionality, there are some notable differences. Use our cheat sheet below to determine which best suits your needs.

Advantages

  • It’s smaller:
    mPOS can be a smartphone, a tablet, or a standalone unit based on a smartphone form factor. Any of these are more compact than a big, bulky POS system.
  • Portability:
    ‍    Going to trade shows where you plan on selling goods? Take your mPOS. Want to set up shop on the sidewalk because it’s a nice day? Your mPOS has your back. Decide to close up your restaurant and buy a food truck instead? You won’t need to change your POS system.
  • It’s easy to use:
    ‍    You can use your smartphone, right? Then you can use an mPOS. In many cases, it’s just an app that runs on the device (though dedicated mPOS devices also exist!), so it’s intuitive. Plus, you won’t have to manage it yourself since the mPOS service provider will almost certainly have robust support options.
  • It’s secure:
    ‍    mPOS is more secure than a traditional POS system because it’s completely cloud-based. That means none of the data — credit card or customer information, for example — is stored locally. For a deeper look at mPOS security, check out this whitepaper.
  • It’s automated:
    ‍    No need to manually generate revenue reports, manage bank accounts, or the like. It’s all seamless and simple with an mPOS system.
  • Customers love it (and so will you):
    ‍    At this point, customers are very used to mPOS systems and many likely prefer it overall. With many mPOS systems, the customer’s email address and phone number are attached to their credit card, which makes digital receipts, returns, and customer history dead simple.

Disadvantages

  • Portable = breakable:
    Have you ever dropped an old-school POS and broken it? Probably not, because it’s largely stationary. An mPOS though? Drops happen. Better get a ruggedized case.
  • High cost to replace:
    ‍    What happens when you break that high-dollar mPOS tablet? You have to replace it. That can be costly depending on which model you’re using. While traditional POS systems are more expensive, they’re also far less likely to get damaged, making replacement cost more of a consideration for an mPOS system.
  • Support lifetime:
    There are plenty of old-school POS systems still in use today, but mPOS systems won’t have the same lifecycle. They’re not designed to stay in service indefinitely and have limited support lifetimes, so they’ll have to be replaced regularly for cybersecurity purposes.

Rugged devices are best for:

  • Durability:
    Rugged devices have the durability you wish hard shell tacos did.  While hard shell tacos can’t even be held without falling apart, rugged devices are purpose-built to withstand the harshest conditions, such as extreme temps, moisture, dust, and potential drops, in the toughest environments, like construction sites, manufacturing floors, and outdoor fieldwork.
  • Lower TCO in the long term:
    ‍    Rugged devices are often more expensive at first, but their durability can mean savings in the long run thanks to their reduced risk of damage and longer lifespans. It’s like a horror movie in reverse. The jump scare is up front, then it’s smooth sailing.
  • Extended battery life:
    ‍    If a device goes down and no one is around to see it, does it really go down? Yes, yes it does. That’s why rugged devices often come with a longer battery life so they can operate for extended periods in remote places where charging isn’t easily accessible. 

Consumer-grade devices in a rugged case are best for

  • Cost savings:
    ‍    There are cost savings to be reaped here, both in the short and long term. A rugged case is less expensive than a rugged device, making it cheaper up front, and the added protection makes the device more durable than an uncased device, reducing maintenance and replacement expenses.
  • Support lifetime:
    ‍    There are plenty of old-school POS systems still in use today, but mPOS systems won’t have the same lifecycle. They’re not designed to stay in service indefinitely and have limited support lifetimes, so they’ll have to be replaced regularly for cybersecurity purposes.

Consumer-grade devices are best for 

  • Lower initial costs:
    Consumer-grade devices tend to be a more budget-friendly choice. This is great for those with smaller spending power, but be aware the cost of damage or replacement could be greater in the long run.
  • Ease of use:
    ‍    No bulky or heavy cases here, just slim and lightweight devices. The user experience can be more mobile and carefree— unless, of course, you drop it.
  • Future-proofing:
    ‍    Consumer-grade devices are the favorite child in the device world. They bask in constant attention, enjoying frequent updates that keep them at the cutting edge of functionality and ahead of their rugged counterparts. 

Tablets

Usage and portability
Tablets offer the ideal balance between functionality and portability. Their larger screens make it easier to view and use content and apps while still allowing staff to be agile.
Ideal applications
Due to their larger screens, tablets are often preferred for applications that require precise input via a stylus or touch, such as design, healthcare, or fieldwork.
Communication
Users can effectively use tablets for emails, messaging, and video conferencing. Voice calls may be less convenient due to their larger size.
Cost
Tablets offer a cost-effective alternative to smartphones. Quality tablets are often significantly more affordable than flagship smartphones with similar features. This makes tablets a smart way to cut expenses, particularly if you don't need cellular connectivity.
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Smartphones

Usage and portability
Smartphones are the most portable devices out there, making them great for on-the-go communication and quick access to information. Their small screens and limited functionality could make them less suitable for certain business tasks.
Ideal applications
Smartphones are better for applications that require mobility, augmented/virtual reality, or mobile payments.
Communication
Smartphones are perfect for efficient communication methods such as voice calls, text messages, emails, and video calls.
Cost
‍Small in size, potentially big in price. Smartphones can get pretty expensive thanks to their compact design and premium features like advanced cameras and facial recognition. These factors drive up production costs and result in higher price tags compared to tablets in many cases.

Smartphones

Usage and portability
Smartphones are the most portable devices out there, making them great for on-the-go communication and quick access to information. Their small screens and limited functionality could make them less suitable for certain business tasks.
Ideal applications
Smartphones are better for applications that require mobility, augmented/virtual reality, or mobile payments.
Communication
Smartphones are perfect for efficient communication methods such as voice calls, text messages, emails, and video calls.
Cost
Small in size, big in price. Smartphones can get pretty expensive thanks to their compact design and premium features like advanced cameras and facial recognition. These factors drive up production costs and result in higher price tags compared to tablets.

Tablets

Usage and portability
Tablets offer the ideal balance between functionality and portability. Their larger screens make it easier to view and use content and apps while still allowing staff be agile.
Ideal applications
Due to their larger screens, tablets are often preferred for applications that require precise input via a stylus or touch, such as design, healthcare, or fieldwork.
Communication
Users can effectively use tablets for emails, messaging, and video conferencing. Voice calls may be less convenient due to their larger size.
Cost
Tablets offer a cost-effective alternative to smartphones. Quality tablets are often significantly more affordable than flagship smartphones with similar features. This makes tablets a smart way to cut expenses, particularly if you don’t need cellular connectivity.

Shopping Considerations for Company-Managed Smartphones

Let the search begin! It's time to find your ideal smartphone. Be on the lookout for these essential factors so this feels more like a treasure hunt and less like climbing Mt. Everest.

Operating System (OS)

Not every OS is the same. From customization level to security to hardware diversity, they each offer something different. Ensure the one you choose lets you deliver the user experience you want.

Performance

Why buy it if it doesn’t work well? Look for a powerful processor and sufficient RAM to handle demanding tasks smoothly. If your use case requires taking photos, video conferencing, or document scanning, double-check those camera specs.

Durability

Durability is essential when you can take your smartphone anywhere. Look for a sturdy build, or consider a protective case if you experience bouts of butterfingers.

Security

The portability of smartphones can make you as free as a bird, but weak security can bring you down real quick. Make sure your smartphones have robust security features and get regular OS updates to ensure they aren’t left vulnerable.

Device lifecycle

Determine how long your devices need to be in the market. Some consumer focused brands move fast, releasing a new model each year. Others offer options with more longevity. Knowing what you want is the only way to get it.

Budget

Odds are you’re on a budget. Make sure this precious resource is put to good use by considering the total cost of a device. From price per unit to routine maintenance to troubleshooting, look at both short- and long-term costs

Need More Guidance? Esper Can Help.

Our hardware experts make finding the right hardware easy! Esper has guided thousands of customers to develop efficient, scalable device fleets that meet their needs. With our robust partner catalog and vast hardware support we can always find a solution.

Supported hardware catalog

Our platform supports 1,400+ devices, both off-the-shelf and custom. AOSP, GMS, and beyond.
Browse recommended smartphones

Hardware without limitations

Off the shelf or full custom? You have the freedom to choose what’s right for
your business.
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Partner ecosystem

Our robust partner catalog means we can give you a fast track to your ideal device fleet.
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Managing My Smartphones

Management considerations for company smartphones:
You’ve got your smartphones and now it’s time to manage them. An MDM (Mobile Device Management) solution is a great tool to monitor and protect your smartphones, but there isn’t a cookie cutter solution out there. Here’s what to consider while you’re shopping around:

Scalability

The future isn’t as far off as you think. An MDM that’s flexible can save you a lot of time and money when you’re ready to add more devices, switch hardware vendors, or iterate your solution.

Control over updates

Full control over your own firmware image can help you avoid security vulnerabilities, compliance issues, and costly downtime. This is one power trip that’s necessary.

Security

Security is always a main character. Look for encryption to protect sensitive info, passcode policies to prevent unauthorized access, and remote lock or wipe in case of lost or stolen smartphones.

App and content control

You’re not just managing smartphones, you’re also managing what’s on them. Look for features that let you seamlessly push the latest app versions, ship updated content, and adjust settings over the air.

Remote debugging capabilities

The best part about using smartphones is they can go anywhere. The best part about using remote debugging capabilities is you don’t have to go anywhere to fix them. Everything you can do in person, you can do from your desk.

Provisioning method

Part of the joy of technology is automating the tasks you hate. With the right MDM, your provisioning process can be a few simple steps, taking just minutes to deploy a batch of smartphones.

Advanced Device Management for Business-Critical Smartphones

Esper is like an MDM, but not the ones you’re used to. The features are user-friendly and engineered to create an "Am I dreaming?" sensation (You’re not!). The provisioning is easier, the remote control is smoother, the updates are safer — you get the picture. It all just makes sense and who doesn’t like things that make sense?
Control
Efficiency
Security

Streamlined device grouping

Easily group smartphones to improve organization and manage all your devices from a single console.

Update at will

Test updates on a single smartphone, then stage rollouts to groups based on custom rules.

Enhanced visibility

Monitor smartphone vitals like status, health, and usage at a glance. Set custom alerts for automated monitoring.

Device kitting made simple

Your IT teams can deploy dozens of smartphones in minutes instead of hours. Maybe even go home early.

Avoid expensive onsite visits

View and control smartphones, troubleshoot issues, or generate a debugging report. From anywhere.

Streamlined software delivery

Ensure smartphones boot up with the most current OS version and settings. No matter what.

Eliminate device tampering

Lock devices down with hardened kiosk mode so users only access what you want.

Protect system integrity

Control when apps get added, updated, and removed — on the fly, at any time. As often as you need.

Keep smartphones from disappearing

Track smartphones in real-time and set up a virtual geofence to protect your assets.
Try Esper for 30 Days

Elevated Device Management

Esper ensures the performance of rugged devices for first responders 

Esper’s software is integral to our ability to roll out the rugged headless SD7 in large scale deployments with enterprise and public safety customers and remotely update the devices. Esper does the heavy lifting of device security, fleet management, and software updates behind the scenes so first responders can focus on the job at hand.

Marc Seelenfreund
Marc Seelenfreund
CEO of Siyata Mobile

Strategic hardware support saves national QSR chain from expensive rip-and-replace cycle

To support team members and customer experiences across our POS, tablets, and other devices, we needed a solution that worked for our next generation enterprise Android apps. Esper was a true partner. Working with them allowed us to move fast, save money, and now we can make strategic decisions about what hardware we want to use.

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Mas Yoshida
Mas Yoshida
Director, Next Gen Restaurant Technology, Taco Bell

Great tool for handling phone deployments…Different Blueprint builds is very helpful. [I can] see, track and document where our phones are, how many we have and how many are actually being used.

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Everything You Need to Know About MDM
Tech-first companies need a way to manage all of their digital devices — from tablets and smartphones to kiosks and point of sale systems. That’s where MDM comes in. But there’s no such thing as a one -size-fits-all MDM solution, and each device management scenario needs to be evaluated individually. That’s why it’s important to understand the different types of MDM and where each one excels. This is your guide to all that and more.
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