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Managing Apple Devices? Here’s Why the Apple Consultants Network (ACN) Matters

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Apple devices are more popular in business than ever before, especially as work from home becomes the norm and employees are given more freedom to choose the devices they use for work.

According to IDC, the average penetration of macOS devices is 23 percent in the United States, up from 17 percent in 2019. The percentage of certain devices is even higher, with iPhones accounting for 49 percent of all smartphones and iPads accounting for the vast majority of tablets in the enterprise. That’s an astonishing rise from the approximately two percent of devices Apple accounted for in the office 20 years ago.

Author: Timothy Cruz, Addigy
Author: Timothy Cruz, VP of customer success, Addigy

As the number of Apple devices in the workplace grows, managed services providers (MSPs) are being entrusted to effectively deploy, manage, and protect them. Although the Apple brand is known for being highly secure, 2021 saw the largest and most extreme exploits in history. Given these trends, it’s no longer practical for MSPs to take a one-size-fits-all approach to device management. Instead, many are choosing to expand both their toolbox and skillsets with an Apple-specific focus.

Why MSPs Should Join Apple Consultants Network

One way to do this is by joining the Apple Consultants Network (ACN), which provides MSPs with premier training to enhance their Apple expertise while also recognizing its value in the marketplace.

ACN members receive training in several key areas, including setting up Apple devices with mobile device management, installing secure networks, and deploying backup and security solutions. Some may also specialize in specific industries, such as healthcare, or have enhanced technical authorization from Apple to perform certain services, such as custom app deployment, repair, reselling or accessibility consulting. Through exclusive events and continuing education, ACN members keep their knowledge current.

MSPs Highlighted on Apple.com: What’s more, ACN members are promoted through Apple’s official “Find A Consultant” page as trusted and trained practitioners. For an MSP, this special distinction is a way to drive opportunities and stand out in a competitive market.

To join the Apple Consultants Network, an MSP can apply through the Apple website. There are several requirements, including annual Apple technical training. Addigy is proud to offer two certificates – Addigy Certified Associate (ACA) and Addigy Certified Expert (ACE) – that satisfy the ACN requirements for MDM management.

With Apple devices becoming more prevalent in business, now is the perfect time for MSPs to take advantage of the opportunities they present. For MSPs with current or potential customers that leverage Apple devices, joining the Apple Consultants Network is a great way to build and showcase their expertise.


Author Timothy Cruz is VP of customer success at Addigy. Read more Addigy guest blogs here. Regularly contributed guest blogs are part of ChannelE2E’s sponsorship program.