Microsoft Employees in China Forced to Switch From Android to iPhones
Why must Microsoft China employees switch to iPhones?
Microsoft China employees must switch to iPhones due to cybersecurity reasons and the unavailability of Google Mobile Services in the region. This affects the functioning of necessary security apps like Microsoft Authenticator and Identity Pass, which are now mandatory for all employees and can be reliably downloaded from Apple's App Store5.
What apps must Microsoft China employees use on iPhones?
Microsoft China employees must use Microsoft's Authenticator password manager and Identity Pass app on their iPhones to verify their identities in order to log into work devices. The move is part of Microsoft's Secure Future Initiative, aiming to enhance security protocols and overhaul cybersecurity standards.
How were Microsoft China employees informed about the switch?
Microsoft China employees were informed about the switch to iPhones through an internal memo, as reported by Bloomberg. The memo notified the hundreds of impacted staff about the requirement to use Apple iPhones for work purposes and the need to use Microsoft's Authenticator password manager and Identity Pass app on their iPhones to verify their identities for work devices.