With the rapidly evolving landscape of enterprise technology, organizations are re-evaluating their approach to managing Apple devices. A recent discussion led by Bradley Chambers, an experienced IT manager, emphasizes that simply relying on Mobile Device Management (MDM) is no longer sufficient for successful deployment and management of Macs in the workplace. Instead, he advocates for a comprehensive strategy that encompasses identity management, app delivery, and security measures.
Moving Beyond MDM
The conventional notion that “MDM is all you need” has become outdated. While device management is indeed crucial, Chambers argues that it is merely one component of a broader strategy necessary for optimizing Apple’s presence in enterprise environments. Organizations must expand their focus to include a full service portfolio around Apple devices to achieve effective deployment and management.
According to Chambers, identity management is the foundation of this new approach. He highlights the importance of Managed Apple Accounts and Platform SSO, which are now essential for ensuring secure and seamless user authentication. With advancements introduced at the WWDC 2025, Apple has made significant strides in streamlining user sign-in processes. The Setup Assistant now allows users to authenticate with their identity provider right from the start, eliminating unnecessary steps and enhancing security.
Chambers also points out the introduction of Authenticated Guest Mode for shared Macs, which transforms the user experience in environments like healthcare and retail. This feature allows users to log in with cloud-based credentials, ensuring no data is left behind upon logout, thus fostering a secure and efficient shared use of devices.
Identity and Security Integration
As organizations implement these new features, the need for a robust identity management system becomes increasingly clear. Chambers stresses that identity should extend beyond login credentials to include app secrets, Wi-Fi credentials, and certificates. Apple’s tools, such as the Managed App framework, provide IT teams with the capability to manage these credentials securely and effectively.
The transition to declarative management is another critical aspect of Chambers’ argument. At WWDC 2025, Apple announced broad support for declarative management across its product line, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and more. This method allows IT departments to define compliance policies, manage software updates, and track installations in real-time, marking a significant improvement over traditional command-based systems. With legacy MDM support being phased out, the urgency for organizations to adopt declarative management practices has never been greater.
Chambers warns that many existing security vendors still approach macOS as if it were a variant of Linux, which does not adequately address the unique needs of Apple devices. He argues that security tools must be tailored specifically for macOS to ensure comprehensive protection. Features such as System Extensions and proper utilization of Endpoint Security APIs are vital for securing Apple devices effectively.
Moreover, visibility into device performance and security is a pressing concern for Apple IT teams. Chambers notes that traditional log collection methods often fall short on Apple platforms. As telemetry data from macOS continues to grow, organizations must invest in tools that can reliably collect, move, and analyze this data to maintain security and compliance.
Access management also plays a pivotal role in this expanded strategy. At WWDC 2025, Apple introduced AccessMule, a tool designed to automate onboarding and offboarding processes while tracking user access across various tools. This solution highlights the importance of integrating access management with device management, as effective access controls are crucial for maintaining security and operational efficiency.
Ultimately, Chambers concludes that success with Apple in the enterprise requires a holistic perspective that transcends traditional device management. Organizations must consider the entire ecosystem surrounding Apple devices, from identity management to app delivery and security posture. By embracing this broader vision, IT departments can create a cohesive environment that maximizes the potential of Apple technology.
As organizations continue to adapt to the changing landscape of technology, it is essential to retire outdated notions of MDM and recognize that achieving success with Apple devices necessitates a comprehensive, integrated approach that addresses all aspects of the deployment and management process.
