Last week Apple released new offerings to it’s lineup of tech tools: the much anticipated iPhone 6 and 6 Plus, and the Apple Watch. While Apple generally focuses its product releases on the consumer, there’s always an undertone of enterprise consideration. For service organizations eager to equip technicians with the latest gadgets to heighten productivity, improve customer satisfaction and streamline communication between techs and the office, the new devices solve several needs.
Here are a few ways Apple’s new products and upcoming software updates will benefit field techs:
iOS 8 Update
Scheduled for September 17, Apple’s iOS 8 update will revamp the operating system for many products. . One thing that techs may rejoice over is a smarter keyboard. With predictive text, filling out forms and communicating while on the go has never been easier.
SEE ALSO: 3 Reasons the Apple Watch is a Win for Field Service
Apple has also finally opened up its keyboard to third-party developers with this update, so techs can download a swipe keyboard if they so desire — something that has tipped the scale for many folks to choose Android over iPhone in the past. Siri can also be accessed at all times with iOS 8 — no more holding down the home button. Now, users can simply say “Hey, Siri” and the personal assistant will respond. iOS 8 will come with Apple’s iCloud Drive, too, so documents can be shared and accessed across devices.
iPhone 6 and 6 Plus
With pre-orders topping 4 million in the first 24 hours of its release, the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus promise to be huge moneymakers for Apple. Folks in the field have reason to celebrate, too, as both offerings boast a larger screen. The 6 Plus is great for video streaming as it’s screen is 5.5 inches. The ability to complete tasks with greater ease and less pinching and swiping to minimize or enlarge the screen is also a plus. The phablet can still fit in a user’s pocket, though. An updated camera, more memory, and better battery life are all perks field techs should be happy about.
Apple Watch
Wearables are still a big market for software and hardware companies looking to make an impact with the enterprise. These company’s continue to focus their efforts on mobile workers, including field techs. While Apple Watch looks like a flashy new tech toy, it has some serious potential for mobile workers. Alerts that vibrate on a users’ wrist are sure to get a worker’s attention. Third-party apps also offer new ways to connect with other workers in the field, while voice commands provide a great option for scheduling or to set reminders.
All in all, Apple’s new hardware and software provides some promising productivity perks that may take the sting off of the higher-than-ever price tag: the Watch is going for $349 while the iPhone 6 Plus starts at $299.
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