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An Industry Approach to Android

Recently, Microsoft announced that it is discontinuing support for its Windows Zebra TC56 Mobile ComputerCE and Windows Handheld mobile operating systems. While this news has been disconcerting, there is no need to panic. Microsoft has given plenty of advanced warning, so its customers can find and deploy alternatives.

However, companies caught up in the transition are concerned about the upcoming changes, and some are fearful about making the wrong technology decision. Most companies want to avoid making frequent technology changes because of the expense and potential risk involved, but in this case, there is a simple solution.

Dual Platform Devices

Some manufacturers, such as Zebra, offer mobile devices that use dual operating systems. These devices run both Windows Mobile and Android, so you have the best of both worlds. You can use the devices now on a Windows Mobile platform, and they will operate seamlessly with your existing hardware and software applications. This takes some of the pressure of having to switch everything over to Android if you are purchasing new devices. When the time to make the change comes, you simply boot to Android rather than Windows, and the same hardware is now operating in the new environment.

Choosing the Hardware

As you work to refresh your fleet, be sure to look the ones you choose offer the capability to operate with either platform. This not only makes migration from one operating system to the other more gradual and manageable, but also helps your team stay productive since they already know how to operate the equipment and accessories. It’s simply a matter of becoming accustomed to any changes in the software or integration that your IT team introduces.

The biggest advantage with this strategy is that it gives your IT team plenty of time to create any new applications or to modify your existing software. With plenty of devices on hand for testing, they can ensure that your mobile devices operate smoothly, and they can test any changes with your existing workforce.

Industry Trends

Mobile device manufacturers are aware of the coming changes and are beginning to launch more mobile computing devices that can operate on either platform. Consider the Zebra TC56 Mobile Computer, for example, for its convenient form factor, full-shift battery life and high accuracy scanning.

Zebra devices also run the gamut from small handhelds to vehicle mounted devices, and you can easily switch many of these devices from Windows to Android over the air or using smartcards to load the new OS.

Migration Path Planning

If your business relies on mobile computers, and productivity and efficiency are important to you, you should be working on a transition strategy well before the 2020 end of life date. However, the decision is complex, and requires a broad knowledge of the available offerings and underlying technology as well as your business objectives. That’s why it’s a smart move to team up with a trusted partner who will take the time to learn your business and help you understand all the options for successfully managing the future changes.

Contact us today and schedule an appointment with one of our team members to learn more about the options and how others in the industry are handling this change.

 

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Thanks for your interest in Medical Courier Elite! If you're interested in learning more about our solution and how it can help your business, we'd be happy to schedule a demo, provide a quote or answer any questions you may have.

181 East Evans St. | Florence, SC, 29506
Phone: 843-656-2084 or 877-331-7427
www.medicalcourier.com
contact@medicalcourier.com