Google announced a new programme to certify Android devices with higher specifications meeting the needs of businesses. Devices certified under the Android Enterprise Recommended programme will be tested by Google to show they meet higher specifications for hardware, deployment, security updates, and user experience. In addition, phonemakers in the program receive an enhanced level of technical support and training from Google.
For devices running Android 7.0 or higher, the minimum specifications include support for bulk deployment with zero-touch enrollment, Android security updates within 90 days of release from Google for a minimum of three years, availability of unlocked devices direct from manufacturer or reseller, and a consistent application experience in managed profiles and on managed devices.
With each new Android platform release, Google will update the Android Enterprise Recommended programme requirements.
The first devices certified under the programme are the BlackBerry KEYone and Motion; Google Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, and Pixel 2 XL; Huawei Mate 10, Mate 10 Pro, P10, P10 Plus, P10 Lite, and P smart; LG V30 and G6; Motorola X4 and Z2; Nokia 8; and Sony Xperia XZ1, XZ1 Compact, XZ Premium, XA2, and XA2 Ultra. More devices will be added in the coming weeks and months, Google said, including other types of devices and partners, such as rugged devices, mobile carriers, enterprise mobility management providers and systems integrators.
