iPad is the king of tablets, but could be dethroned by Android, says a recent IDG study. Among first-time business buyers, 44 percent are considering an Android device instead of an iPad in the next twelve months, while only 27 percent are considering an iPad purchase. A dismal three percent of this segment, whose demographic spanned the globe, were considering a Windows 8 machine.
Enterprise Android Apps, Where It's At
Android developers also don't want to be caught flat-footed in this shift. Enterprise apps often require deeper functionality than consumer apps, so Android developers interested in the enterprise market must consider the needs of potential enterprise customers. For example, secure enterprise app stores are being developed inside network firewalls to accommodate the ever-increasing adoption of consumer devices for enterprise use. After all, business apps must extend beyond email and shared company calendars to be of much use. Enterprise Android developers must produce elegant, and secure methods, for accessing important company data. If you're currently developing business applications for Android consider the emerging enterprise market.
Under the Android Hood
The latest version of Android, code-named Ice Cream Sandwich, provides a seamless experience across devices. Preserving the user interface across devices allows developers to develop once and deploy everywhere. Ice Cream Sandwich boasts better Enterprise security features allowing more control over network resources, user permissions, and more. The Android Developer SDK page for version 4.0 says:
Developers can now build or extend their own VPN solutions on the platform using a new VPN API and underlying secure credential storage. With user permission, applications can configure addresses and routing rules, process outgoing and incoming packets, and establish secure tunnels to a remote server. Enterprises can also take advantage of a standard VPN client built into the platform that provides access to L2TP and IPSec protocols.
Improved enterprise features and display options are an opportunity to build better business apps that work beautifully on both phones and tablets. The job outlook for mobile enterprise developers is bright. A quick look at current jobs available on Dice.com offers great insight into current hiring trends for talented mobile developers with enterprise experience.
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