Apple and IBM, former tech rivals, are partnering to deliver IBM applications through iOS to the business world in a move experts say will transform enterprise mobility.
The new business apps marry IBM’s analytics and big data capabilities with Apple’s iPhone and iPad in efforts to provoke “true mobile-led business change,” IBM wrote in a press statement Tuesday. The deal positions IBM to develop upwards of 100 industry-specific enterprise solutions, cloud services and native apps exclusively for Apple’s iOS 8.
“For the first time ever we’re putting IBM’s renowned big data analytics at iOS users’ fingertips, which opens up a large market opportunity for Apple,” Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said. “This is a radical step for enterprise and something that only Apple and IBM can deliver.”
IBM revealed intentions to expand its mobile offering last December when it acquired Fiberlink Communications Corporation, which widened its scope of MobileFirst solutions through Fiberlink’s MaaS360 brand offering.
IBM Chairman Ginni Rometty, president and CEO, said the alliance builds on the company’s momentum in bringing recent innovations in mobility to clients globally and leverages IBM’s expertise in cloud, analytics, software and services.
“Mobility—combined with the phenomena of data and cloud—is transforming business and our industry in historic ways, allowing people to re-imagine work, industries and professions,” said Ginni Rometty, IBM Chairman, President and CEO. “We are delighted to be teaming with Apple, whose innovations have transformed our lives in ways we take for granted, but can’t imagine living without. Our alliance will bring the same kind of transformation to the way people work, industries operate and companies perform.”
Apple plans to unveil its anticipated iOS 8 in September.
