It has been almost eight months since Google first announced its concept of Android for Work at its Google (GOOGL) I/O conference. The Internet giant seems to be finally ready to send its Android platform to work.
On Wednesday, Google rolled out a set of tools especially designed for businesses and employees who want to work using their Android-powered smartphones
This could be seen as Google’s ambitious plan to integrate its mobile device platform into businesses around the globe.
Google’s vision goes even further. Rajen Sheth, director of product management for Android at Work, wants all employees of the world to use a work-enabled mobile device. He said that the company would do all things possible to make it happen.
However, such a feat is not achieved easily. They will have to cajole IT managers to switch to Android from Apple’s (AAPL) iOS. Apple’s iPhones and iPads are very popular in this space as they control the iOS universe completely.
To do this, Google has to come out with an assortment of work-related apps that have separate security configurations. They can be controlled by company IT managers and customized by the employees for use. This will lead to Android device owners having their own set of personal apps besides being able to use specific work-related apps that enable logging into a company’s restricted internal networks.
Work-related apps will be differentiated using Android badges.
Android for Work will be available automatically on phones running on the latest operating system, "Lollipop" or version 5.0.
For phones running on older versions of the software, Android for Work app can be downloaded to make the package work.
Apart from these, Google will also offer Google Play for Work as part of its online app store for these work-related apps.
Looking Ahead
Along with Android For Work, Google has made an enterprise push for Google Glass, its Web-connected headset. In fact, earlier this year, Google had said that it would not continue with its current Google Glass product. It had however mentioned that it would continue to support the Glass at Work initiative.
The company also said that it eventually wants to extend this to other Android-powered machines, like cash registers.
We can’t but agree to what Sheth said: they are definitely making it easier to say yes to Android.
Google currently holds a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Stocks that Warrant a Look
Other better-ranked stocks in the industry include EVINE Live Inc. (EVLV) and Autobytel Inc. (ABTL). Both carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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