Microsoft has ended support for Windows CE and Windows Mobile. For rugged mobile devices, the road now leads to Android – but the switch demands a change in thinking.
THE STARTING POINT
Microsoft ends support
Since 1996, Windows CE and Windows Mobile were the leading operating systems for rugged mobile devices. Now that Microsoft is ending support, manufacturers have to look for new operating systems – and currently Android is the only one on offer. Android was developed primarily for billions of smartphones, but it runs just as well on millions of rugged devices in industry. On a few points, however, a clear change in thinking is required.
SECURITY
Security under Android
Attackers primarily target the operating system that offers the best chances of success: a few million Windows Mobile devices stand against several billion Android users. Attacks on Android therefore seem more tempting at first – but armies of specialists worldwide are also dedicated to protecting Android systems. Windows Mobile, by contrast, will soon lose even its last Microsoft support: then the equation looks very different.
UPDATES
Annual OS updates, monthly patches
With Windows CE, a new version appeared only every few years – devices were used for 4–5 years without major adjustments. With Android it is completely different: good manufacturers deliver major annual operating-system updates and monthly patches.
- →Keep up with major updates: Anyone who only begins the OS update once an acute threat arises is poorly advised.
- →Be cautious with auto-updates: What works on a private phone does not apply to customised or bespoke apps in a professional setting.
- →Test before every rollout: Customer-specific apps must be checked before every patch and every new OS version.
For this, OPAL offers a dedicated MDM Service based on SOTI: it manages customers’ mobile devices and keeps them up to date.
THE MIGRATION
How to make the switch a success
Many professionally used applications work with a Telnet client or via a web browser – with tools like the elegant Velocity Client the changeover here is no major problem.
A change in thinking is needed for customer-specific applications: most Win CE/Mobile experience is of little further use here. We see many projects stumble because too much was wanted from the outset and too little experience was brought in. Work together with developers experienced in Android, break projects down into small sub-apps using the Scrum methodology and prioritise them – only then are rapid success and a satisfied user base over the long term assured.
FOR YOUR BUSINESS
Brochure & Consulting
Are you planning the switch from Windows to Android? We will support you – from device selection and MDM to app migration.
OPAL – Your Partner for Mobile Solutions
