A major transformation is happening in enterprise mobile computing. Thousands of companies and most top device manufacturers are migrating from Windows Mobile to Android. In fact, only 4% of new enterprise handheld computers come with Microsoft’s latest mobile operating system, Windows 10 IoT. Additionally, many app developers are also abandoning Windows in favor of Android. Here are the four big reasons why this is happening and why you may want to consider a similar switch to Android.

1. Microsoft’s Waning Commitment to Enterprise Mobile for Handhelds 

Until now, Windows Embedded Handheld and CE were the industry standards for enterprise mobile computing. However, Microsoft has ended or will soon end support for all versions of these platforms between January 2020 and April 2021. This doesn’t mean it’s time to panic, but it’s definitely time to assess the impact on your operations and determine the next steps for ensuring your mobile future. If you have an extended support plan, some manufacturers may be able to provide support beyond 2021. 

However, you’ll still need a plan for what to do once you’ve exhausted all your support options. Upgrading from legacy versions to Windows 10 IoT won’t be possible because apps for Windows Embedded Handheld and CE are not forward-compatible. The only option to remain with Windows is to take on the expensive and time-consuming process of reprogramming and migrating applications and databases. Given the difficulties and problems this poses and considering that Microsoft’s commitment to enterprise mobile for handhelds has been waning for years, the industry is switching to Android. As the world’s most popular mobile OS, Android offers an easy-to-use and intuitive interface along with many development tools and a global developer community that makes it much faster and easier to migrate applications and create new solutions.

Hardware manufacturers and businesses such as Zebra, Home Depot, and Whirlpool have taken this simpler and less costly approach, giving workers a more familiar and user-friendly experience in the process.

2. Security Risks

The end of support for any OS means no future updates or security patches, so migrating to a new platform will eventually be an absolute must to avoid data security threats. 
Mobile device management gives businesses complete control over Android devices, applications, and connections. Emkat collaborates with the top manufacturers to provide up to 10 years of security updates and support, long after the standard five-year Android consumer support period comes to an end.

3. Better Mobile Productivity and Efficiency 

A switch to Android offers a remarkably positive impact on worker productivity and efficiency. Android’s simple, touch-screen interface is much easier to use, which helps simplify and streamline workflows. For example, Zebra’s new TC8000 touch computer combines Android simplicity with a combination barcode scanner and mobile computer that increases worker productivity by 14%. Workers no longer have to tilt a scanner to see its screen and confirm scanning results, and its virtual keyboards help them achieve 40% faster data entry with 60% fewer errors. Android is also familiar to many workers because they use it on their home devices, so it speeds up training and makes onboarding new employees easier.

4. Support Multiple Apps on One Device  

Android OS will give users the ability to run core ERP/WMS apps while additionally running communications and productivity apps such as email and messaging. This will allow you to effectively support and optimize warehouse functionality, manage your business, and communicate effectively all on one OS.  

Now’s the time to assess your mobile future and start developing an OS strategy, and our experts at Barcodes are here to help. Contact us now to schedule a free one-on-one consultation with one of our expert engineers to help guide you to the best course for your business.