Microsoft’s July Intune update brings a suite of enhancements designed to streamline device management for IT administrators. Among the notable features are real-time monitoring of Windows device sync progress, the introduction of custom compliance settings for macOS, and improved control over firmware updates for Samsung devices.
The Intune admin center now offers a more transparent sync process for Windows devices. This update allows administrators to monitor sync progress in real time, eliminating the need for feedback loops. A single sync action can now initiate updates across device management, compliance, policy, application, and scripts simultaneously, significantly expediting troubleshooting efforts.
How custom compliance improves macOS device management
In a significant development, Microsoft has made custom compliance settings for macOS devices generally available. This feature empowers organizations to define compliance requirements that extend beyond the standard checks provided by Apple. By aligning these custom requirements with Microsoft Intune’s security policies, IT administrators can effectively mitigate risks and facilitate smoother macOS deployments.
With the ability to utilize scripts and JSON-based rules, administrators can assess device-specific conditions such as installed applications, active processes, software versions, and security configurations. This capability fosters a more uniform compliance management experience across various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.
“Consider the aspects of installed software, running processes, app versions, or security posture that may not be captured by Apple’s built-in settings. Now, macOS devices can report compliance in a manner consistent with Windows and Linux devices, providing a unified view rather than three disparate ones,” the Microsoft Intune team elaborated.
Microsoft Intune adds Samsung Knox E-FOTA firmware management
Additionally, the latest update enhances the management of Samsung Galaxy firmware and operating system updates through Samsung Knox Enterprise Firmware-Over-The-Air (E-FOTA). This feature grants IT administrators the ability to dictate which device groups receive specific firmware versions, thereby enhancing control over deployment schedules, maintenance windows, battery requirements, and the option to postpone updates, all while ensuring security and compliance are maintained.
Moreover, this update clarifies a common misconception regarding Windows Autopilot deployments. While traditional scenarios may still necessitate device registration, newer methods such as Windows Autopilot Device Preparation allow for the provisioning of Windows 11 devices without the need for prior registration.
