Here are the Android Phones Google Recommends for Enterprise Customers

In the world of Android, there are many choices when it comes to devices. When you look closely, though, some devices are better than others in categories such as frequent security updates and reliable software experiences. Because of this, Google is launching a new global initiative called Android Enterprise Recommended.

With this program, Google is handpicking which devices are best for the world of enterprise. According to Google, devices in the program meet an, “elevated set of specifications for hardware, deployment, security updates, and user experience to help organizations handle the most challenging and diverse business environments.”

Additionally, the OEMs in said program receive an enhanced level of technical support and training from Google.  This should all lead to a better enterprise experience for the customer, which of course, matters the most.

Here’s the full list of Enterprise Recommended devices as it stands right now.

Android Enterprise Recommended Devices

• 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
• Sony Xperia XZ1, XZ1 Compact, XZ Premium, XA2, and XA2 Ultra

As we can see, Google’s own devices meet the criteria (naturally), but Huawei also comes in with six devices on the list. Funny, I thought we were trying to avoid Huawei at all cost. Even more odd is that Samsung’s flagship devices are not listed, but that could change with the release of the Galaxy S9 and S9+.

Google was kind enough to also lay down what is required of OEMs to partake is this program. Needless to say, most of these requirements shouldn’t be deal breakers for any major OEM.

Android Enterprise Recommended Requirements and Best Practices

• Minimum hardware specifications for Android 7.0+ devices
• Support for bulk deployment of Android devices including zero-touch enrollment
• Delivery of 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
• Consistent application experience in managed profiles and on managed devices

As Google notes in its announcement, you can expect more Android Enterprise Recommended devices to be added in the coming weeks and months.

Throughout 2018, we will also be applying the Android Enterprise Recommended framework to additional partner types, including OEMs of “dedicated” and rugged devices, mobile carriers, enterprise mobility management (EMM) providers and systems integrators.

Here’s an overview video Google published for the Enterprise Recommended program.

// Google