What is the difference between supervised and unsupervised devices in Apple management?

Supervised devices are a core element of Apple’s device management capabilities, particularly when using Mobile Device Management (MDM). The key distinction with supervised devices is that they allow for more comprehensive management and control functionalities compared to unsupervised devices.

With supervision, administrators gain the ability to enable advanced features such as the ability to enforce advanced restrictions, install apps remotely, manage and configure settings across devices, and lock devices to a specific set of apps or configurations. This level of control is particularly beneficial in organizational settings where enhanced security and management are necessary.

Additionally, supervised devices enable the use of features like device activation lock, and the ability to control user access to certain device functionalities, thereby providing organizations with the tools required to ensure compliance with their policies. This deep integration into the device’s operating system means that administrators can implement solutions tailored specifically to the needs of the organization.

In contrast, unsupervised devices have limited control and management capabilities, which makes them less suitable for environments that require strict compliance and oversight. Therefore, understanding the difference in management capabilities is crucial for those looking to implement Apple devices within an enterprise.