Intune: Enabling “Sideloading” Apps + iOS Beta Access
July 2020: Article by Colin Moore, Mobile Application Release Manager, Enterprise Mobile Planning & Delivery
Intune Changes to Devices Security Policy
The move to Intune from Mobile Iron as our Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution has brought a few changes to the device security policy. These changes make devices more secure, protecting both the user and the Kaiser network from dangerous apps exploiting vulnerabilities. The most notable changes for developers and testers are new restrictions on installing unreleased apps (sideloading/installing an untrusted developer certificate) and iOS updates – including beta releases. But fear not! Gaining access to these necessary functionalities is possible with an easy request.
Sideloading Apps
Sideloading apps on KP devices includes installing anything outside of the Apple AppStore ecosystem- Fabric, Firebase, App Center, or just manually adding apps to a device. While the Intune security policy does not allow sideloading for most users, luckily there is a solution for developers! With a directed service request you will be placed into a group that removes these restrictions in Intune.
To request access to install an Untrusted Developer Certificate (sideloading apps), please submit a Service Now by following these instructions.
iOS 14 is Coming – iOS Betas and Updates
There is also a separate service request to allow your device to install beta versions of iOS. You will likely want both of these features enabled if you are in development or testing.
Apple does not generally announce exact release dates for major updates but we do know iOS 14 (Azure) is coming this fall. Belonging to the Beta group allows you to install Beta versions of iOS and also update to the released version immediately. All other KP devices are locked down for 14 days from the date Apple releases. This access gives you the needed time to test, debug, fix, and release all before any users see issues.
To request access to install Beta Versions of iOS, please submit a Service Now request by following these instructions.
For more on the MCoE Service Desk and Services, please visit our website.
Thank You
Thank you for reading this article by Colin Moore. Please take a minute to send us your questions or feedback about this submission at MCoE-Comms@kp.org. Let us know if you have a mobile themed topic or suggestion for upcoming editions of the MCoE Newsletter!
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Hello,
When can we install iOS 14 if using MobileIron on BYOD?