Although Apple introduced the iPad as a consumer-focused device, enterprise suppliers are already preparing it for business use. For instance, we have Cisco releasing its WebEx Meeting Center application for Apple’s tablet, and I’m sure other enterprise solution makers will follow the example in no time.
According to ABI Research, worldwide ultra-mobile device (UMD) adoption will average 55% per year as businesses find many uses for such devices.
In addition to tablets, the research company also puts other devices in the UMD category — including netbooks, smartbooks and mobile Internet devices (MIDs).
Enterprise practice director Dan Shey comments: “Businesses will be attracted to these devices for the same reasons as consumers – their larger screens, LAN and WWAN connectivity, and most importantly, low cost.”
However, ABI continues with a caution that UMDs are not necessarily “business ready.” Since they are not x86-based, IT managers will be required to put an extra effort to manage yet another platform. Moreover, so far we haven’t seen a single ruggedized UMD and that kind of a device could be useful in more austere environments…
And you can get additional information from ABI’s report titled “Enterprise Netbooks, Smartbooks and MIDs” from their website.