Deloitte partners with Apple to push iOS into the enterprise

Global management consultancy Deloitte has joined forces with Apple to develop a new enterprise offering featuring iPhone, iPads, and applications for the iOS mobile operating system.

Called EnterpriseNext, the service is the first of its kind for Deloitte, which will direct 5000 business advisers to work on the program.

iOS architects, designers, and engineers will work in Deloitte digital studios around the world to build native apps for enterprise resource planning, customer relations, analytics, and human resources.

Apple and Deloitte will advise clients on how to take full advantage of the iOS hardware and software ecosystem for their specific industries, and use rapid prototyping to develop custom solutions.

Deloitte global chief executive Punit Renjen said the consultancy's workforce already uses over 100,000 iOS devices and runs 75 custom-developed apps.

EnterpriseNext marks Apple's continued push into the business market. In 2014, Apple and IBM announced an iPad resale tie-up, with application development, support and device activation, and management included.

Network equipment vendor Cisco and Apple are also working together to provide enterprise voice, video, and collaboration solutions.

Apple's iOS platform has similarly garnered support from competitor Microsoft, which has ported its Office business productivity suite and other enterprise applications to iPads and iPhones.