Enterprise mobile security vendor Apperian has delivered on a first for Apple's iOS: Administrative remote control of iOS devices as part of EASE, their cloud-based mobile application management (MAM) software.

Remote Control for iOS allows administrators to view and operate iOS devices under EASE management from a web-based administrative console. Remote control is a common and important tool for administrative support on desktop and notebook computers and a typical component of desktop management platforms.

Apperian's MAM solutions offer both SDK-based and binary wrapping of apps for management. their main business is working with enterprises to secure their in-house apps, although their tools can be used to secure 3rd-party apps as well. Remote Control for iOS requires no programming or SDK use.

The service is operated by the administrator through a web browser. The administrator interacts with the remote view of the device using the keyboard and mouse. When the virtual keyboard is up on the iOS device, the browser window raises a dialog box in which the administrator can type and then submit, instead of having to click individual keys with the mouse.

The client-side app delivered to the iOS device can be individually-branded by the customer (e.g. "Acme Corp. Technical Support") and integrates with the company's existing trouble-ticket system, if they have one. The client is also locked to their licensed copy of EASE, so that only the proper administrators can gain access to the device.

The iOS user must explicitly permit the remote control request. Click image for a larger view.

Remote connect sessions must be explicitly allowed by the device user to ensure they are permitted. Access is gated through a PIN which must be obtained from the user and entered remotely by the administrator. The user of the device can configure the client app to restrict access to specific apps and deny others. Many apps, such as the camera and phone, are blocked by default from access by the remote administrator. If the administrator attempts to access these apps he sees a blank window and the device user is notified.

Apperian Remote Control for iOS will be available to licensed enterprise users as an added cost option. Pricing will be announced at general availability around the end of October. App developers at licensed enterprises will have access to the service at no charge.