Apple @ Work: New Features for IT Admins in iOS 18.2 and macOS Sonoma 15.2

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Continuing the trend of mid-cycle updates, Apple has rolled out OS 18.2 and macOS Sonoma 15.2, which introduce new enterprise-focused features that simplify the management of Apple devices, particularly with respect to Apple Intelligence. Below is a summary of the recent enhancements for IT teams using iOS 18.2 and macOS Sonoma 15.2.

About Apple @ Work: Bradley Chambers oversaw an enterprise IT network from 2009 to 2021. His experience includes deploying and managing firewalls, switches, mobile device management systems, enterprise Wi-Fi networks, and thousands of Macs and iPads. Bradley shares insights on how Apple IT managers deploy devices, build supportive networks, train users, recounts experiences from the IT trenches, and suggests improvements Apple could make for IT departments.

Significant updates in iOS 18.2

Apple consistently enhances enterprise management for IT teams with beneficial updates. Here are the key highlights for iOS IT administrators:

• Apple Intelligence Integrations: Device management tools can now oversee and restrict external Apple intelligence features, including Image Playgrounds. Apple’s focus on Apple Intelligence is encouraging as it introduces essential updates for IT.
• Safari Multi-Factor Authentication Improvements: Safari’s multi-factor authentication now reliably accepts hardware security key PINs (an interesting choice of wording by Apple). This enhancement not only improves user experience but also bolsters security for employees utilizing this feature.
• Default Browser Management: Device management tools can now enforce a default browser setting, preventing users from altering it. This guarantees consistency across your organizational devices, whether utilizing Safari or another browser.
• Streamlined Enrollment with Apple Configurator: New skip keys have been added to Apple Configurator, facilitating automated enrollments without manual steps. This change significantly reduces setup time for IT teams handling large deployments.
• Improved Account-Driven Enrollment: The service discovery aspect in account-driven enrollment can now retrieve resources from an alternative specified location linked to your device management solution and Apple School or Business Manager.

Major updates in macOS Sonoma 15.2

The enterprise enhancements in macOS Sonoma 15.2 align with those in iOS 18.2 while adding unique macOS features:

• Apple Intelligence and Image Playgrounds Control: Just like in iOS 18.2, device management systems can regulate Apple Intelligence features and restrict image generation in Image Playgrounds.
• Enhanced AirPlay Payload Management: AirPlay device management payloads now support passwords with the DeviceName string for tvOS 18, and the DeviceID string for older versions, ensuring backward compatibility with the latest Apple hardware.
• Reset OpenSSH Configuration: A new terminal option allows IT admins to reset the OpenSSH configuration across devices. For more information, refer to man apple_ssh_and_fips. This update streamlines troubleshooting and configuration management for secure remote access on macOS.
• Safari Multi-Factor Authentication: Consistent with iOS, Safari on macOS now efficiently handles hardware security key PINs, enhancing the device experience across platforms.
• Enhanced Stability for Video Conferencing and Networking: Video conferencing applications now function more reliably, even with the built-in firewall and content filter extensions active. DNS resolution improvements have also been made.
• Flexible Account-Driven Enrollment: Similar to iOS 18.2, macOS now supports alternative service discovery locations as designated by the device management solution, making device enrollment less complex, particularly in intricate network environments.

Conclusion on updates in iOS 18.2 and macOS Sonoma 15.2

These mid-cycle management updates from Apple underscore the company’s commitment to enhancing the enterprise-readiness of its iOS and macOS platforms without compromising user experience. With increased control over AI integrations, streamlined enrollment processes, and stronger security measures, IT administrators can now find a better balance between innovation and compliance. For businesses overseeing extensive fleets of Apple devices, iOS 18.2 and macOS Sonoma 15.2 represent valuable updates that simplify deployment, bolster security, and accommodate unique workflows. It’s encouraging to see Apple continually empowering IT teams with the tools and capabilities they require.

Apple @ Work is supported solely by Mosyle, the leading Apple Unified Platform. Mosyle’s solution integrates everything necessary to seamlessly and automatically deploy, manage, and safeguard Apple devices in professional environments. With more than 45,000 organizations relying on Mosyle, millions of Apple devices are made work-ready without hassle and at a budget-friendly cost. Request your EXTENDED TRIAL today to experience why Mosyle is essential for working with Apple.