THE APPLE BRAND
Apple is the world’s most valuable brand, valued at $517 billion. The other four in the Top 5, all tech giants, all shy in comparison:
- Microsoft – $340 billion
- Google – $333 billion
- Amazon – $309 billion
- Samsung – $99 billion
Much of Apple’s success can be attributed to the widespread adoption of iPhones. However, Apple Macs also contribute significantly to its revenue. Their appealing combination of sleek design and integrated hardware makes them a popular choice among users. Let’s take a look at why the world, including global businesses, are slowly but surely buying into the Apple brand and Apple Macs so wholeheartedly.
APPLE MACS VERSUS PC – SUPPLY AND DEMAND
Despite Apple’s enormous brand wealth, it only occupies fourth place (9%) in the personal computer sales race, beaten by Lenovo, HP and Dell – in that order. Countless PC brands is out there as well as a wide array of support options available to PC users. The same scenario exists in the IT support world, mainly driven by the principle of supply and demand. Given the prevalent use of PCs in most businesses, most Managed Service Providers (MSPs) develop systems and expertise tailored to support PC users. As such, many companies, irrespective of their size, hesitate to transition to an Apple-based system. The lack of comprehensive tools for managing Apple devices, whether in-house or through managed services, presents a distinct challenge to their infrastructure and security. As a result, business owners often rely solely on Apple Support when issues arise with their equipment.
WHY BUSINESSES CHOOSE APPLE MACS
Nevertheless, as we said, Apple Macs are on an upward trajectory in business. For ages, Microsoft’s Windows has been the go-to for businesses, but the winds of change are blowing, and Apple products are making serious headway beyond their usual stomping grounds in the creative and media sectors. Since the late 1990s when the first Apple Mac PC hit the scene, companies worldwide have become increasingly enamoured by Apple Macs. Their unique blend of hardware, software, and services has been a game-changer for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Die-hard Apple fans rave about the seamless interface and robust operating systems, offering an unrivalled user experience. But it’s not just about user-friendliness. Here are a few key factors that make running an Apple Mac infrastructure a win for many companies wanting to keep their edge:
- Reliability and security – Apple products are renowned for their reliability and robust security features They offer fantastic protection against malware and other cyber threats. With rapid troubleshooting and a focus on security, Apple Macs create a safer ecosystem for handling sensitive business data. This reliability ensures seamless critical business operations, minimising disruptions from technical issues.
- Design and integration – Apple’s design ethos seamlessly integrates its products into diverse business environments, particularly valuable with Microsoft Modern Workplace. Mac devices harmoniously coexist with Microsoft’s Windows suite of productivity tools, facilitating cross-platform collaboration and data sharing. This effortless blending of the Mac ecosystem with others simplifies workflows and enhances productivity.
- App ecosystem – The Apple Store boasts an extensive array of useful apps, including many tailored to business needs. Ranging from project management to data analysis, these apps drive productivity and operational efficiency. The wide selection of software solutions also empowers teams to customise their Macs to suit specific requirements, fostering performance and driving innovation.
WHO USES APPLE MACS
ComputerWorld tells us that in the United States, the adoption of Apple devices appears inevitable, with 76% of large businesses now incorporating more Apple devices into their operations. Nine out of ten IT professionals commend the business advantages offered by Macs, iPhones, and iPads in the workplace. Recent data underscores this momentum, with 57% of US businesses acknowledging that the adoption of Apple devices is outpacing other options. This trend is fuelled by many advantages, including reliability (56%) and an extended usable life (53%). Business users value machines that are durable and remain functional for longer periods. 67% of IT professionals also report improved productivity simply by transitioning to Apple devices, while 56% emphasize that iPhones and iPads are preferred over Android devices due to their superior productivity and user experience.
ARE APPLE MACS SAFE FROM CYBERATTACKS?
It isn’t that Mac platforms are impenetrable, it’s that they aren’t currently worth a hacker’s time. Recent data shows that Mac users constitute just over 8% of the global market share of computer platforms, while Microsoft users account for nearly 89%. This disparity explains why there are fewer malware threats targeting Mac users. However, as Macs have gained popularity, this trend has begun to shift, highlighting the increasing need for better Mac support and security. Over the past two years alone, there has been a 2% global increase in Mac users. One significant advantage of Macs in terms of security is their highly sandboxed setups. If malware does manage to infiltrate a device, its impact is typically limited because it struggles to move beyond its initial point of entry. Moreover, Gatekeeper serves as an additional layer of defence by allowing only Apple-approved software to be installed by default.
WHAT ABOUT IT SUPPORT FOR APPLE MACS?
Selecting the right IT support provider for your business begins with a comprehensive assessment of your existing resources, identifying any deficiencies in your current IT support requirements, and anticipating future needs. If your business is embarking on a digital transformation journey, having the right IT support in place is crucial, especially if Apple Macs are integral to your plans. Therefore, any IT support provider you consider must specialize in Apple products. Unfortunately, there is often a shortage of expertise in IT support services related to Apple products. Many third-party providers are reluctant to work with companies utilising Apple products due to the perceived challenges involved. Therefore, finding a knowledgeable and experienced IT support provider familiar with Apple technologies becomes paramount in ensuring smooth operations and effective support for your business. These are some of the questions you should ask an Apple MSP before being onboarded by them:
- What are your areas of expertise and what certifications do you hold? Do you have certified technicians specializing in Mac devices on your team?
- Are there any specific technologies that you do not provide support for? What level of support can we expect for our specific devices, particularly Macs?
- What proactive monitoring tools do you utilize to anticipate and address potential issues?
- Can you provide examples of companies you currently support that operate on Mac platforms? Do you have any testimonials from these clients?
These questions just scratch the surface to gauge the level of support your Mac users will receive and determine if the MSP is the right fit for your needs, or if working directly with Apple Support would be a better option.
ZHERO SUPPORT FOR APPLE MACS
Zhero is London’s #1 end-to-end cybersecurity and IT support for SMEs. Unlike most of our regional competitors, we are also experts at supporting Macs and other Apple devices. With our wealth of experience in IT support for businesses, we specialise in expertly managed Mac support packages. Rest assured that your IT infrastructure will stay current, secure, and easily accessible. Our Apple support services include
- Consultancy
- Mac networking
- Mac management
- Hardware support
- Procurement
- Apple deployment
- Training services
Let us handle your IT hurdles, freeing you to concentrate on your primary business endeavours with peace of mind. Empower your teams, boost productivity, and enjoy the advantages of our proactive support approach. Get in touch today and let us be the Apple of your eye.
