Mobile Device management Glossary

AOSP is the Android Open Source Project and refers to the publicly available source code for the Android operating system.

An all in one POS system is one where the hardware and software are married — they are both provided by the same company.

ADB is a powerful command line tool that you can use to debug your Android phone or tablet and send a large number of commands to control behavior on the device.

Android Device Owner is an enterprise feature supported by Google as part of the Android operating system, in place of the now-deprecated Android Device Admin.

Android Kiosk Mode is a function that locks an Android device down to a single app, preventing other uses.

Android Mobile Device Management, or Android MDM, is the software that enables businesses and their IT teams to monitor and manage Android devices remotely.

On Android, app pinning (previously known as screen pinning) allows you to “lock” an Android device’s screen to a single app.

The Apple Volume Purchase Program (VPP) is a content purchasing method allowing organizations like businesses, schools, and enterprises to buy App Store apps and books in bulk for iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) is a means to collect information about items as they move through the supply chain, ensuring operational efficiency and accuracy.

Bus route planning is the endeavor of strategizing and optimizing the transportation of individuals to and from school, hotels, correctional facilities, or other destinations.

CI/CD stands for continuous integration, automatically integrating newly contributed code into a shared repository regularly, and continuous delivery, automatically delivering the validated build to the testing environment and integrating into the code repository.

The CPU is the brain of any computer system. Its role is to execute complex instruction sets and perform millions or billions of calculations per second.

Clinical trials are research studies designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of new medical interventions such as drugs, devices, or procedures.

Computer vision is quite literally what it sounds like: Making computers see. Computer vision use cases can vary, but most of them rely on object detection and classification algorithms.

Customer engagement is the process of creating engaging, personalized experiences that resonate with customers, driving sales and fostering brand loyalty.

Delivery route planning is the process of using tools like route optimization software and GPS to create efficient, cost-effective delivery routes by considering factors such as time, distance, traffic, and vehicle capacity.

Device provisioning is setting up a device (like a tablet, display, sensor, or handset) to work in a specific manner.

Digital biomarkers are measurements of physiological data, collected through everyday devices like wearables and smartphones, that provide continuous healthcare insights.

Digital kiosks are a self-service solution that help individuals with wayfinding, checking in, making a payment, or otherwise getting information they want.

Digital signage uses dynamic and versatile displays as a communication tool to showcase eye-catching images, videos, or real-time interactive elements.

Edge AI is the use of machine learning (AI) algorithms that run at or near the source of data they analyze, using on-device processing to crunch data and predict an outcome.

Typically, an edge device is a computer (e.g., a server), piece of network infrastructure, or IoT device that exists at the edge of a network, acting as an interface between the external world and that network.

Research and device labs in the education industry serve as essential learning environments, providing students with hands-on experience with technologies like robotics, AR systems, and more specialized equipment.

Electronic Clinical Outcome Assessment (eCOA) uses digital tech to collect and assess reports directly from patients throughout clinical trials.

Electronic Data Capture (EDC) Systems allow the direct capture of patient data into electronic case report forms, replacing traditional paper-based methods with digital solutions.

Electronic monitoring devices, typically in the form of ankle bracelets or GPS trackers, are technological tools used in the corrections system to monitor an inmate’s location and movement.

A factory reset erases all user data and configuration settings on a device like a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

FOTA stands for firmware-over-the-air and is used to refer to a type of update system on modern smart devices like tablets and smartphones.

Facility analytics involve using data-driven insights into operational efficiency, device performance, guest behavior, and resource use to optimize hospitality and other types of facilities.

Facility management includes monitoring and managing physical infrastructure, various security systems, activities within the facilities, and other staff resources.

Federated learning is a conceptual framework for distributing the training of a machine learning model across many endpoints and data sets (versus centralized training on a massive dataset) in a way that inherently creates strong data privacy protections.

Food safety involves the steps cooks take for proper handling and storage of raw ingredients. cooking food at safe temperatures, and maintaining hygienic conditions in food prep areas.

Google Mobile Services is a bundle of applications and services built by Google that comes pre-installed on GMS-certified Android devices.

Guided Access is Apple’s proprietary name for a feature in iOS that allows you to “lock” your iPhone or iPad to a single app or screen.

Gym utilization analytics enable gym owners to gain valuable insight into how their facilities are being used, such as how members interact with the gym, peak usage times, popular equipment, and underutilized areas.

Health monitors are devices equipped with sensors that collect vital health metrics, enabling real-time insights and proactive health management for individuals and healthcare providers.

Healthcare technology is any technology used in a healthcare setting, including everything from IT operations and medical devices to software, AI, ML, wearable technology, and cloud-based tools.

iOS Mobile Device Management, or iOS MDM, is the software used by businesses and IT teams to monitor and manage their iOS devices remotely.

While it isn’t called “kiosk mode,” iPadOS has a setting that locks a single app to the screen. It’s called Guided Access.

In-home gym equipment can include traditional equipment like treadmills and dumbbells, as well as connected fitness options like smartwatches and virtual reality fitness systems.

Inmate education programs provide opportunities for learning and development, teaching the skills and knowledge necessary for successful reintegration into society upon release.

Inmate messaging services make it easy to ensure a convenient and secure way for incarcerated people to stay electronically connected with friends and family.

Inventory management systems help businesses to operate efficiently by tracking and controlling stock levels, ensuring products are available to customers as needed.

IoT device management refers to the suite of tools and practices designed to effectively organize, monitor, and maintain the connected devices within an IoT ecosystem.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of physical devices embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity that allow them to collect and exchange data.

Digital kiosk machines automate customer orders of goods and services, such as ticketing booths, airport check-in terminals, or ordering kiosks at quick service and casual restaurants.

Line busting is exactly what the name implies: a way to reduce checkout times and get customers through lines at your store or restaurant more quickly.

Logistics analytics involves collecting, aggregating, and analyzing data generated throughout the supply chain, including warehouse inventory levels, delivery routes, and customer trends.

Logistics automation streamlines the supply chain by automating manual tasks with solutions from automated guided vehicles moving goods within a warehouse to software systems managing inventory and optimizing delivery routes.

Loss prevention is aimed at minimizing financial losses and creating a safe environment for both customers and employees, using devices like cameras and RFID tags.

Machine learning (ML) is the practice of using mathematical algorithms to “teach” a computer system to perform a task autonomously and with continuous improvement in outcome.

Managed Google Play is a private version of Google's Android app store designed for large organizations to manage and deploy applications and updates to Android device fleets.

Medication adherence is the extent to which patients take prescribed medications, and it plays a crucial role in managing chronic diseases, preventing complications, and promoting overall well-being.

An mPOS uses a smartphone or tablet and some form of card reader to complete a transaction. The smartphone or tablet powers the system and is portable so merchants can accept payments from virtually anywhere.

An over-the-air (OTA) update refers to a software or firmware update package distributed to a device (like an Android smartphone) via internet connection.

Restaurant ordering systems are used to enhance customer dining experiences by offering a streamlined way to order food in-store, on the phone, or via an app at home.

A point of sale (POS) system is designed for customers to pay for goods or services. A POS system can be tied to a single physical location, a portable system called an mPOS, or a virtual POS system used for online checkout.

Point of sale (POS) terminals are simply modern cash registers. Older definitions may specifically refer to credit card machines or card readers, but modern POS terminals universally accept card payment.

Parking management aims to maximize efficiency by strategically planning and organizing a parking facility, with tools like smart parking systems, mobile payments, and real-time occupancy tracking.

Physical rehabilitation is a critical part of the fitness industry, offering individuals a path to recovery and improved physical condition, especially following injuries or surgeries.

Physical security protects an establishment’s premises, assets, staff, and customers from threats such as theft and vandalism, using tools like security systems, surveillance cameras, access controls, and smart lights.

A Point of Sale (POS) is the place where a customer completes a transaction with a business, including physical checkout counters, mobile POS devices, and online shopping carts.

Profile and device management is a feature of iOS devices that allows a company or other organization to control the settings, content, and security on those devices.

RISC-V is an open source instruction set architecture, or ISA — what you could call a “blueprint” for running code on a computer processor.

RAM is a type of short-term storage that is faster than traditional hard disk storage, so it stores temporary files, apps, and data, allowing your device’s CPU to access them more quickly.

Remote device management refers to the ability to centrally manage and control devices like tablets, kiosks, or POS systems from a remote location, such as a company office or your WFH setup.

Remote learning, also known as distance education or online learning, allows students of all varieties to access educational content from anywhere with an internet connection.

Remote patient monitoring is a way for healthcare professionals to keep an eye on their patients when they’re at home or otherwise outside of traditional clinical settings.

Remote sleep health blends sleep science with digital health devices, giving rise to an array of innovative tools and platforms that offer the remote tracking and analysis of sleep health.

Restaurant analytics allow establishments to gather a good balance of data that helps them optimize operations backed by informed decision making.

Restaurant ops leverage a variety of hardware solutions to ensure improved order accuracy, faster service, increased efficiency, enhanced customer satisfaction, reduced food waste, and better inventory control.

Retail analytics tools from digital scanners to heatmapping sensors allow retailers to more easily optimize pricing, revamp websites and store layouts, or even find areas for improvement.

RBAC is generally composed of three key components: roles, permissions, and users. Users are assigned roles, and roles are given permissions.

Seamless Provisioning is a way to bake the provisioning process directly into your Android build so it happens automatically at first boot.

Self-service kiosks provide a convenient way for customers to order food in restaurants, purchase tickets at movie theaters, check in for flights at airports, or make quick retail purchases.

Sideloading means installing an app on a device without using an official application store.

Single App Mode is a way to force an iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV to remain “locked” to a single app. This feature is similar to Guided Access or kiosk mode, but there are differences that distinguish each one.

SSO stands for “Single Sign-On” and is a process that allows users to use a single set of login credentials to gain access to multiple applications and services.

A single-board computer (SBC) integrates all the essential functions of a computer on a single printed circuit board (also known as a PCB).

Sleep health encompasses the quality, duration, and regularity of sleep, and tech like wearables, smart mattresses, and sleep-tracking apps provide valuable data on sleep quality, duration, and disruptions.

Sleep tracking has emerged as a vital component in both the fitness and healthcare industries, providing individuals and professionals with valuable insights into sleep quality and quantity.

A small language model (SLM) is a machine learning model typically based on a large language model (LLM), but of greatly reduced size and compute demand.

Smart gym equipment offers users personalized at-home workouts, using advanced sensors, AI, and interactive displays to give real-time feedback, personalized guidance, and immersive workout programs.

Much like a smart home, a smart warehouse integrates technology into key components of the warehousing process, including things like automation, intelligent data collection, and inventory tracking.

Sport sensors are devices that use tech like accelerometers, GPS, and gyroscopes to capture real-time data for elements like movement, biomechanics, and more.

Staff communication keeps teams in many industries informed and coordinated, spanning interactions like dispatchers relaying instructions to drivers or customer service reps addressing questions.

Staff device hardware includes options ranging from wearables and digital scanners to a variety of portable gadgets that make it easy for employees to have access to crucial information.

Student devices help learners access information and collaborate with classmates and teachers, and can include tech like interactive whiteboards, smart pens, and student tablets.

Apple iOS device supervision, also known as iOS supervised mode, is a way for organizations and IT admins to remotely manage and control the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Apple TV.

Telehealth enables patients to connect virtually with doctors and other medical professionals, from video consultations and remote monitoring to online prescriptions and health education.

Transportation analytics enable businesses to collect, process, and interpret supply chain data to optimize routes, reduce costs, and improve customer service.

Traveling clinicians are medical professionals such as doctors or nurses who typically take on short-term assignments at hospitals, clinics, or other facilities.

Wearables offer individuals and healthcare providers alike a powerful tool for monitoring and collecting physiological data. Wearable technology comes in various forms such as smartwatches or rings.

Workout recovery uses smart devices and various vital monitors, aimed at optimizing physiological and psychological restoration after strenuous workouts.

x86 is the instruction set used by the x86 family of processors, which were initially developed by Intel in the late 1970s.