Android or iOS: Which system is right for your business?

Whether Android or Apple devices are better suited to your business’s needs and requirements is not just a question of budget. In this blog post, you’ll find out all about the pros and cons of Android and Apple (iOS and iPadOS), as well as the different MDM features available for Android and Apple devices.

Last Update: 07 September 2026 | Autor: Saskia Riechers

Android or iOS in my company: Do I need to choose?

In their private lives, users often have a preference for the devices they like best. For some, this is Apple, and they eagerly await the latest Apple release; others are die-hard Android fans and prefer, for example, the handy Google Pixel features.
In a work context, however, we rarely get to choose which devices we want to use. To ensure staff satisfaction nonetheless, companies should therefore carefully consider their choice of corporate devices to ensure they are suited to the employees’ work and tasks.
Another important factor is the data protection features of mobile devices. This is because, depending on the operating system – and in some cases even the device type – not all MDM functions can be implemented equally for Android and iOS.
It is also important to consider whether all employees should generally be provided with the same mobile devices, or whether there should be a hybrid device fleet, where different employees are given different devices. Devices are also often passed on within a team, for example during shift changes in the care sector. To ensure this can be done smoothly, the device must meet certain technical requirements. Companies must take these factors into account, in consultation with their IT administrators, when setting up a new fleet of devices or gradually replacing an old one, and when connecting them to an MDM system.

Android vs. iOS: Pros and cons in a business context

There is no one-size-fits-all answer as to which system is better suited to a business. Both operating systems have advantages and disadvantages, the relative importance of which varies depending on the business’s specific requirements.Fundamentally, the strengths and weaknesses of individual device types and operating systems always relate to their compatibility with MDM functions. It should also be noted that, particularly with Android devices, there is a vast array of different device manufacturers, whose operating systems can differ significantly. This becomes particularly apparent, for example, when comparing a Xiaomi with a Samsung. Consequently, statements regarding Android in particular are highly generalised and may not apply to all device types.

The Android ecosystem

Android is the most common operating system for mobile devices and is closely integrated with Google. It has an open-source structure, which is why it is popular with hardware manufacturers, as they can tailor the operating system (OS) to their devices. However, as described above, this also means that devices from different manufacturers can vary significantly in terms of functionality, usability and compatibility with an MDM. It should also be noted that Chinese manufacturers such as Huawei do not always cooperate with Google and use their own version of the ‘Google ecosystem’.

What are the benefits of Android devices for companies?

A wide variety of models:
from high-end rugged devices to Samsung, Google Pixel and affordable Xiaomi devices, there is something to suit every budget in the Android range. Most handheld devices, such as scanners used in logistics or small POS tablets, also run on Android. This means that even businesses on a tight budget can equip their staff professionally.
Advanced hardware and security features:
Due to fierce competition, Android manufacturers are driven to regularly bring new developments to market that genuinely represent an improvement – and thus provide an incentive to buy. To appeal to businesses, they also offer, for example, particularly robust hardware and enhanced security measures, such as Samsung Knox Enrolment.
Businesses as a target group:
With Android Enterprise, Android has long recognised that the largest market for mobile devices is the business sector. Not only do businesses often purchase large quantities of mobile devices in one go, but they also replace them regularly. That is why Android Enterprise offers models such as COBO, COPE and BYOD, which provide clear data separation and are therefore attractive to security-conscious businesses.
Cost-effectiveness and customisation:
Android Enterprise is usually purchased by businesses through a certified reseller, often as part of a package with mobile phone contracts. With Android, higher purchase volumes often mean a better price. It is also easier for businesses to establish a more granular cost structure: for example, staff working out in the field can be provided with ruggedised devices, whilst those in the office can use standard devices – all from the same manufacturer.
Wide range of apps:
Android works in partnership with Google and, consequently, with the Google Play Store. This offers an extremely wide range of apps. However, Android devices also allow in-house apps and APKs from other manufacturers to be installed. Many Android apps also allow configuration via MDM, for example to block certain URLs in Google.

What are disadvantages of Android devices for companies?

Significant differences and fragmentation:
This great diversity can also be a disadvantage, as every device manufacturer modifies the basic Android system – in some cases quite significantly. As a result, interfaces with MDM also behave differently, and it is not always possible to predict how an MDM policy will be applied on the device. It therefore becomes a problem for businesses when they choose a particular type of device, only to realise afterwards that it does not work with MDM at all. Android provides a list to check which devices are Android Enterprise Recommended. You can find this list here.
Different update policies:
Most Android manufacturers provide operating system updates for between 2 and 7 years, and security updates often for a further 2–3 years. As this also varies, it is important for businesses to find out in advance how the device manufacturer handles the devices they are interested in.
Delayed patches:
When Android releases a security patch, it can still take a few days or even weeks for all other manufacturers to roll out that patch, as they first need to adapt and test the changes for their own operating systems.
Variations in hardware and software quality:
There are no uniform quality standards for hardware and software, and a higher price does not always mean better quality. Furthermore, the quality of the hardware can also vary from model to model within the same manufacturer.

The Apple ecosystem

Apple develops its own operating system for its devices, which differs fundamentally from Android. As Apple also designs and manufactures the hardware itself, the hardware and software work together seamlessly. It is therefore no wonder that many users enjoy using Apple devices, as they feel high-quality and well-designed.

What are the benefits of using Apple devices in a company?

High levels of standardisation and consistency:
As Apple’s operating systems for iPhones, iPads and MacBooks form a closed ecosystem, updates and patches are rolled out simultaneously to compatible devices worldwide. As long as an Apple device is supported, there are no differences between models in this regard.
Long support periods: Apple devices receive the latest operating system updates for between 6 and 8 years as standard, and often security patches for a further 2 years.
App quality control:
Apple has its own platform for distributing apps, the App Store. All apps available there must first pass Apple’s quality control checks. This minimises the risk of untrustworthy apps being installed on devices.
Apple Business Manager (ABM):
With Apple Business Manager and Apple School Manager, Apple offers the most sophisticated business platform, which enables devices to be centrally assigned to various MDM servers and apps to be deployed for the organisation via the Volume Purchase Programme (Apple VPP).

What are the disadvantages of using Apple devices in a company?

High purchase costs:
The devices and accessories cost significantly more than their Android equivalents. Apple also does not offer a wide range of price points, as there are only a few device models available. You won’t find any corporate discounts for bulk purchases at Apple either.
Limited MDM functionality:
Apple provides fewer application programming interfaces (APIs) for its system, which is why the MDM functionality that can be applied to Apple devices is limited. Whilst it is still possible to secure Apple devices in a way that complies with the GDPR, organisations should be aware that it may not be possible to implement all their requirements exactly as desired.
Dependence on ABM:
It is not possible to use iPhones or iPads as corporate devices without ABM. As a result, companies must always use this dual structure and manage not only the MDM account but also the Apple Business Account. Furthermore, Apple requires that the tokens between ABM and MDM be renewed once a year. This, in turn, entails additional work. It is not uncommon in companies for the employee who originally set up the Apple Business Account to have left the company altogether, making it impossible to access the ABM.

MDM for Android and iOS: Which system is easier to manage?

Whether an MDM works better with Android or Apple devices depends on various factors. On the one hand, there are MDMs, such as JAMF, which are designed solely for Apple devices; others, such as the open-source MDM Headwind, which manage only Android devices; and MDMs that can handle both. However, particularly with Android devices, it is not possible to make a blanket statement about whether certain MDMs work better or not, as this always depends heavily on the type of device. With Apple, by contrast, the implementation of standard MDM functions is always the same – regardless of whether it is an iPhone 6 or an iPhone 7. Naturally, if there are significant changes to certain functions from one model to the next, the MDM will first need to adapt accordingly.
For businesses that have decided to manage both Android and iOS devices using an MDM, a solution such as MobiVisor is ideal, as it allows both types of device to be managed within a single platform. MobiVisor thus provides a clear overview of the entire device fleet.

Would you like to find out more about ‘Android vs. iOS’? Watch the full video on our YouTube channel!

Managing Android devices with MobiVisor

MobiVisor offers a wide range of key Android policies and supports the registration of devices as Company Owned – Business Only (COBO), Company Owned – Privately Enabled (COPE) and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD).
MobiVisor provides various policies and features for each of these deployment types, with COBO devices offering the most comprehensive management options.

Some key Android features of MobiVisor:

Remote support with remote lock and wipe

This function allows devices registered in the MDM to be wiped remotely, without the need for them to be physically present with the administrator.

KIOSK-Mode

In KIOSK mode, only a few selected apps mandated by the company are displayed. The employee cannot modify or exit KIOSK mode.

App distribution

A key function of an MDM solution is the centralized installation of apps on corporate devices—even when they are not on-site.

Google Play Store configuration

MobiVisor offers the option to restrict the available app store system-wide, allowing you to choose between: whitelist, all enabled, and unrestricted.

Call blacklist

Using MDM, phone numbers can be blocked directly using a policy without the employee having to take care of it themselves.

System Update Policies

Policies for device updates can be configured on Android devices via MDM.

If a specific policy or setting cannot be implemented directly—for instance, because the manufacturer does not (or no longer) share the necessary interface—the desired result can usually still be achieved in MobiVisor by developing a workaround or even a custom MobiVisor function.

Managing iOS devices with MobiVisor

As Apple wishes to keep the operating system as tightly shielded as possible from third-party software – and thus from potential threats – it provides only a limited number of interfaces, which in turn limits the range of MDM functions. Furthermore, with Apple devices, there is often no scope for workarounds: a function either works or it doesn’t. This is also evident in the fact that apps can either be ‘managed’ – i.e. installed and managed by the company – or ‘unmanaged’. Apple does not offer the option to use the same app in both a personal profile and a business profile.

Some key Apple features of MobiVisor:

DEP-Profiles

Home screen layout

With this feature on Apple devices, you can determine the layout of the Home Screen and group apps—for example, by function.

AirPrint-Configuration

Documents or images to be printed can be sent directly to designated printers.

Lock screen text

iOS devices can be locked remotely. In this case, you can display a custom message—for example, showing a phone number where a lost device can be returned.

Password policies

To ensure that passwords set by users comply with the company’s security policies, you can implement corresponding policies.

Web content filter

This setting prevents certain websites from being displayed.

Although it might appear at first glance that Apple does not provide enough individual MDM features to fully secure a device, this is not the case. For iOS devices, for example, MobiVisor provides a GDPR-compliant standard policy that ensures device security.

Managing Android and iOS together: How does a mixed device fleet work?

Many companies are flexible when it comes to the deployment of mobile devices and rarely stick to just one type of device. Reasons for changing devices include, for example, when the current model is outdated, when a new device needs to be purchased for a new employee, or when a new device is required due to loss or damage. Price also plays a role, as the budget the company allocates for the procurement of mobile devices can sometimes change, making it necessary to look for alternatives. Consequently, it is rare for larger companies to have a ‘single-brand’ device fleet consisting, for example, solely of Samsung Galaxy devices.

How easy is it to switch from Android to iOS, or vice versa?

So how easy is it to switch from one type of device to another? Of course, this is easier if, as with Samsung devices, you can simply activate Smart Switch and have your device data transferred automatically.
If data is to be transferred from one device to another from the same manufacturer, most manufacturers offer this option.
For switching from an Android device to an Apple device, for example, we recommend using the traditional method of a USB transfer. However, you can also download the ‘Move to iOS’ app from the Google Play Store. It is important that both devices have an internet connection for the data transfer. Changing devices does not cause any technical issues or data loss within the MDM. If switching from Android to Android, it is sufficient to register the new device to the existing user so that they regain access to all apps and policies. However, users will usually need to log in again. If you now wish to provide an Apple device to an existing Android user, you must first complete all the steps for Apple DEP registration for that device. In addition – if you do not already have them – you must create the policies for Apple devices within the MDM.

How to proceed when changing devices:

Registration:
Complete all the steps for device registration in the MDM, e.g. MobiVisor MDM, and configure policies and apps.
Data transfer:
Collect the old devices and back up the data. This is particularly important for apps that, for data protection reasons, store data only on the device
Zero-touch deployment:
As security policies, email account configurations and apps are sent to the device over the air, the employee simply needs to switch on the device and connect to the internet to receive the settings. All they then need to do is log in to the apps and set a device password, and they’re ready to go!

If you are considering implementing a mixed-device strategy comprising both Android and Apple devices within your organisation, you should certainly bear in mind that device manufacturers have different approaches to enterprise use and, as a result, are managed differently.

Conclusion: Android or iOS – which system is better for businesses?

If you base your decision on whether to integrate Android or iOS devices into your business infrastructure on just a single criterion, this may lead to incorrect conclusions. There are a number of administrative factors, as well as advantages and disadvantages relating to the hardware, that need to be taken into account. During the decision-making process, in addition to hardware costs, you should also take into account the expected lifespan of the devices, as well as the national and international (e.g. GDPR) data protection requirements with which your company must comply. Neither Android nor iOS can be said to have absolute technical superiority. However, certain sectors may have specific hardware requirements, particularly for harsh operating conditions in the field, on construction sites or in warehouses. In such cases, the Android ecosystem offers significantly more options and flexibility to find the model best suited to your budget and the specific operating conditions.

Not sure whether Android or iOS devices are the right fit for your company? Book an appointment with one of our MobiVisor experts today for a consultation.

FAQ

Is it possible to manage Android and iPhone devices simultaneously using an MDM?

Yes. Thanks to its cross-platform support, MobiVisor MDM enables you to manage all your Android, iOS, macOS and Windows devices simultaneously and in parallel via a single central web console, regardless of their operating system.

What is the difference between Android Enterprise and Apple Business Manager (ABM)?

Android Enterprise is the general software infrastructure for the enterprise-wide management of Android devices. Apple Business Manager (ABM) is Apple’s official cloud platform, which can be used to enrol devices on behalf of the organisation, carry out zero-touch deployment using DEP, and licence App Store applications in bulk. Both systems are integrated into MobiVisor.

How do I install a bespoke app developed in-house on iOS devices?

Due to Apple’s closed system, it is difficult to install an app that is not available on the App Store (IPA file). To do this, you need an Apple Developer account and ABM integration. However, the experts at MobiVisor can easily set this up for you.

How can you protect company data on BYOD devices?

If an employee uses their mobile device under the so-called BYOD model, they must download the MobiVisor app from the Google Play Store. In the client app, the Profile Manager must be selected so that MobiVisor can create a second – completely independent – business profile. Company data remains within this profile, whilst the employee can continue to use their personal profile as usual. The MDM has no access to this profile, and it can also be deleted by the end user.

How do I completely delete data from an old device?

MobiVisor offers the option to send a remote wipe (reset) command, which reliably erases the entire device. This command is available for both iOS and Android devices.

Saskia Riechers

Marketing & Customer Care Manager, IOTIQ

Saskia Riechers has been with IOTIQ since 2021 and, as Head of Marketing, oversees the company’s marketing activities. In addition to strategic and operational marketing work, she creates tutorials and content related to the MobiVisor product. Through direct interaction with customers, she also helps ensure MobiVisor is used effectively in daily operations and assists in finding solutions for specific requirements.

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Mobile device management

Customer success