Apple takes on Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace with new business platform

Apple has launched Apple Business, a platform that consolidates device management and productivity tools into a single global portal.

Apple Business rolls out on April 14 in more than 200 countries and regions and includes Apple Business Connect, Apple Business Essentials, and Apple Business Manager.

Apple acquired Fleetsmith, a mobile device management startup; Jamf and Hexnode are cited as existing enterprise-grade solutions, and Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace currently dominate business email and collaboration.

The portal hosts email and calendar services; organizations can run fully managed email and calendars for up to 500 users using their own domain names.

Each user receives 5 GB of free iCloud storage with optional upgrades up to 2 TB starting at $0.99/month; AppleCare+ for Business is available per device or per user starting at $6.99/month, and plans for Apple Business are provided.