Mobility in the enterprise is not necessarily a new concept, but the capabilities extended to the professional in the field continue to evolve. What once was simply access to the voice channel has evolved into access to emails, applications and the corporate network. Companies are adopting Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) strategies and mobile device management solutions to ensure productivity and security.

At the same time, mobile device manufacturers are developing new solutions to support this trend. The latest is the release of iOS 7 from Apple (News - Alert). MobileIron recently published a blog that explored the different phases of iOS in the enterprise. One worth closer examination is the “Transform” phase.

Here, transform refers to the shift in mobility as the primary communication tool for the professional. iOS 7 sets out to become the core engine of business transformation, enabling the enterprise to create a fantastic new user experience for all employees through the use of an enterprise architecture that is built for ease of use and security.

This release is expected to accelerate the development and adoption of new enterprise applications designed specifically for iOS, while also increasing the pace of global iPhone (News - Alert) and iPad deployment. This has long been anticipated and even assumed by mobile enterprise workers. It was not until this latest operating system release, however, that users could take operations to the next level.

For many, this shift means an elimination of multiple devices whether on the go or in the office. It means devices once used to supplement operations can now serve as the primary backbone for all communications, calculations, processing and execution when it comes to business practices. The iPhone and iPad will thus be standard equipment for the professional in the field and in the office.

This also means a growing demand for mobile device management solutions as the operation and behavior of these devices still varies from that of the traditional corporate environment. Professionals are still using them over the public Internet and on the road, which puts them at greater risk than the typical desktop that stays in one place.

At the same time, these devices are more likely to be used in the workplace, which can ease the process of updating and keeping them in compliance with current user policies. Now that iOS7 has arrived, diligent management of devices and supporting applications is critical to ensure the promised benefits are delivered.