Tech Primer

Mobile Device Management

What is MDM?

MDM is a technology through which cellular service providers gain the ability to recognise the capability of a mobile handset through the air, and deliver services accordingly. The technology also lets a customer change his mobile phone settings on the move, and helps mobile service operators maintain better customer satisfaction levels. MDM solutions are installed on a service provider’s system as well as the customer’s instrument. Some solutions sit at the network server-end, while some go into the subscriber’s SIM card.

How does MDM help?

MDM helps in device diagnostics, also known as device discovery. Through device discovery a mobile service provider is able to identify which mobile handset the subscriber is using, so it can help trace a mobile handset in case it is lost or stolen. Even if a customer changes his handset, the mobile operator can come to know about it through the software component attached to the SIM card. In case the SIM card is entered into a new handset, it will be in a position to configure the new handset and relevant applications will be available in the new handset.

What about SIM card settings?

MDM can also help in updating the device’s operating system or firmware over-the-air (FOTA). For instance, in many cases the mobile handset purchased by a subscriber has limited functionalities, even as new functionalities are being continuously introduced in the market. But with MDM in place the existing handset of a mobile user can be upgraded by using FOTA through a process initiated from the service provider’s end.

What can be configured?

At present, functions such as WAP, e-mail access, MMS and GPRS are being configured through MDM technology. Going forward, one can expect advanced and complex configurations being undertaken through the air for different mobile phones even as new features are being continuously introduced in the market.

Which handsets can MDM support?

The technology supports GSM and CDMA phones with Remote User Identity Module. The service is a boon to those customers who have MMS- and GPRS-enabled handsets but do not know how to use them; it helps users fully utilise these services. A mobile handset can have 17 or 18 unutilised functions which the consumer is not aware of. By using MDM technology, a customer is able to utilise them and make the best use of his handset.

Can MDM help in data backup?

MDM lets mobile users backup their data on a regular basis to the network server at the service provider’s end. Frequently-used information such as bookmarks and address book entries can be backed up using MDM, and in case a SIM gets destroyed or lost, the backed up information can be retrieved immediately from the network server, thus contributing to customer satisfaction.

What are the expected cost savings?

One estimate puts it that by 2010, MDM will provide operators with annual savings of $1.4 billion.

Who are the vendors?

SmartTrust, a provider of mobile software solutions to network and telecom operators, has done extensive work in this space. SmartTrust’s solutions and services are on a pilot run at Bharti Telecom.

— Compiled by Abhinav Singh