Published 2026-02-05 by TechNet New England
Apple Business Manager (ABM) is a free web-based platform that enables organizations to deploy iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV devices to employees without IT staff needing to touch each device. This capability, called zero-touch deployment, significantly reduces the time and cost of device rollouts.
How Zero-Touch Deployment Works
When your organization purchases devices through Apple or an authorized reseller and links them to your Apple Business Manager account, those devices are automatically associated with your organization. When an employee turns on a new device for the first time, it automatically:
- Connects to Apple's servers to identify your organization
- Downloads your organization's configuration profile
- Enrolls in your Mobile Device Management system
- Installs required applications and security settings
The employee simply signs in with their work credentials, and the device configures itself according to your policies.
Key Capabilities
Automated Device Enrollment
Devices purchased through ABM can be enrolled automatically into your MDM solution, enabling immediate configuration without physical handling. This feature, formerly known as the Device Enrollment Program (DEP), is now integrated directly into Apple Business Manager.
Volume App Purchasing
ABM allows your organization to purchase apps in bulk and distribute them to users or devices. Your organization retains ownership of these apps and can revoke and reassign licenses as employees change roles or leave the company.
Managed Apple IDs
For organizations that need corporate Apple IDs separate from personal accounts, ABM supports Managed Apple IDs that integrate with identity providers including Google Workspace, Microsoft Azure AD, Okta, and OneLogin.
2025 Updates
Recent updates to Apple Business Manager include:
- AppleCare coverage and warranty information visible for enrolled devices
- Physical MAC addresses displayed for macOS devices
- Access management controls for Apple services
- API accounts for automated device management
- Audit trail for device releases and reassignments
Getting Started
Apple Business Manager is available at no cost to any organization. Setup requires a D-U-N-S number (free to obtain) and verification of your organization's identity. Once approved, you can begin enrolling devices and configuring deployment policies.
TechNet New England can assist with Apple Business Manager configuration, MDM selection and setup, and ongoing device management. Contact us for a consultation.
Sources: Apple Business Manager Release Notes 2025, Apple Support Documentation, 9to5Mac Enterprise Analysis