Google recently unveiled the first beta version of Android P at its I/O developers conference earlier this month. While the company talked about a number of new features in the updated OS, it didn’t talk too much about the enterprise-centric features that were introduced with the update.
With Android P, Google has introduced a new look and improved performance for work profiles under G Suite. Work apps on Android P will be included on a separate tab in the launcher, which aims to make them more visible while eliminating duplication and clutter. The work apps will also feature an updated blue briefcase icon, which is more in line with Android’s modern design language.
Android P will also address the issues faced by multiple users who share a single device. Enterprise workers who hand of their work device after their shift will be able to simply sign out, allowing their team members to login and start using the device right away.
Kiosk mode on Android allows businesses to use devices as payment terminals, digital signs, informational kiosks, etc. by locking an app to the screen. In previous versions of Android, businesses could only lock one app to a device, however, with Android P, admins will be able to lock multiple apps on a device and quickly switch between them using a dedicated launcher.
Android P also include a number of security enhancements for enterprise users, including multiple PINs and timeout rules for personal/work profiles, additional policies to prevent data sharing between profiles, and new APIs that work with keys and certificates to track the devices that are using corporate resources.
Besides these, Android P will also include other security-focused APIs and features which will benefit users who have a company-issued Android device or personal device with a work profile.
