Microsoft prepares an iOS, Android, Symbian, and WP7 management tool

Individual consumers might have their disagreements about which OS is superior, but they do agree on one thing: the power to choose is wonderful. But IT professionals might disagree. The divergent systems make their job of securing and managing employee devices even more complicated.

Not to be left in the cold, Microsoft has announced a beta of System Center Configuration Manager 2012, which will be able to manage iOS, Android, Symbian, and Windows Phone 7 devices, i.e. any OS that supports Exchange ActiveSync.

There isn't much information to go on, but the SCCM 2012 overview states that it will "Drive organizational efficiency for IT with improved visibility and enforcement options for maintaining system compliance." We interpret that to mean that SCCM 2012 will at least be able to enforce password complexity, and remotely wipe employee devices.

One might think that this is a step backwards for Microsoft's mobile development, but they have often reached out to other operating systems. And, to their credit, they're relying on Windows Phone 7 to make a name for itself, rather than become a success only because Microsoft railroaded IT departments in its direction.

source: Microsoft via TUAW