With Apple Business Manager (ABM), you can distribute apps outside the public app store to company-owned Apple devices. This is ideal for deploying custom apps with specific functions and a tailored look for your business. Using ABM, you can privately and securely distribute unique apps to specific partners, clients, and internal employees.
What is Apple Business Manager?
Apple Business Manager is a web-based portal that helps businesses manage all their corporate-owned Apple devices in one place. You can easily enrol devices and distribute content to employees without physical contact. Additionally, you can create managed Apple IDs, assign roles, and monitor usage, providing greater control and insight into your organisation.
What Are Custom Apps?
Custom apps are designed to meet the specific needs of your business. They combine the ease of the app store with the security of private distribution via ABM. These apps offer unique features and functionality for your employees, enhanced security for sensitive data, and a tailored look aligned with your branding.
How to Distribute Custom Apps with Apple Business Manager
Once your app is created, you can distribute it privately using App Store Connect. Upload the app for review under the Custom App Distribution option and invite testers to beta test before official distribution.
App Store Connect allows private distribution in up to 69 regions to identified organisations. To provide access, distribute the app through Mobile Device Management (MDM) via the content section of Apple Business Manager. Alternatively, create redemption codes for authorised users to download it from the App Store.
Making Custom Apps Available to Specific Organisations
To make your app visible in an organisation’s ABM account, follow these steps:
- Go to the App Store Connect Homepage and click My Apps.
- Select your app from the list.
- Under Pricing and Availability, go to App Distribution Methods and select Public.
- Enter the Organisation ID to grant access through their Apple Business Manager.
Once approved by the App Review Team, the app will appear in the Custom Apps section of the organisation’s ABM.
Finding Your Organisation ID
- Sign in to your Apple Business Manager with an administrator account.
- Click Settings in the sidebar.
- Click Enrolment Information. Your Organisation ID is listed under Organisation Information.
Important Information from Apple
- App Review: Each custom app, as well as each updated version, goes through Apple’s app review process. The same guidelines for App Store apps apply to custom apps, typically taking one or two days. For more details, visit the App Review website.
- App Security: Include an authentication mechanism if your app contains sensitive business data. Apple recommends best practices for in-app authentication and encryption. For more information, see the Security Framework article on the Apple Developer website.
Learn more about distributing custom apps using App Store Connect and ABM through Apple’s Developer online tools. The video Custom App Distribution with Apple Business Manager provides detailed guidance for developers, business owners, and IT administrators.
At HardSoft, we offer ABM setup, support, and MDM solutions, starting at just £1.90 per week. Our flexible Devices for Teams and Lease solutions allow you to invest in Apple devices for your business. We can help you get started with Apple Business Manager and provide expert advice.
For more information, check out our ABM FAQs or get in touch with an expert from our team. We’re here to answer any questions you may have.