iPad with Multiple Users: Optimal Usage for Businesses and Schools

The iPad is no longer just a device for personal use. Businesses and schools are increasingly adopting it to support workflows and learning environments. In these contexts, it often makes sense for multiple users to share a single iPad. This article explains how this works and dives into Apple’s “Shared iPad” feature.

The challenge: Multi-user iPads in a business or school environment

While iPhones and iPads are traditionally designed for single-user use, schools and businesses often need devices that can be shared among multiple individuals. Without proper management, this can lead to issues such as unintentional data sharing, uncontrolled app usage, and complex administration. This is where Mobile Device Management (MDM) comes in, providing essential tools to effectively use the shared iPad functionality. MDM enables administrators to manage user profiles, set configurations and access rights, and ensure device security. Without such solutions, shared iPad usage in secure, controlled environments would be unfeasible.

Typically, iPads are accessed via Face ID or PIN authentication. But how does it work when multiple users share an iPad? In this case, each user logs in with a managed Apple ID assigned by the school or organization. This ID allows access to personal profiles, apps, and settings, ensuring privacy from other users.

What happens to the data at the end of a session? Shared iPads are designed to encrypt each user’s data. Upon logout, the cache is automatically cleared, ensuring no sensitive information is accessible to the next user. This is especially crucial in schools or businesses where data protection and security are paramount.

iPads in Schools: Personalized Profiles for Every Student

In schools, iPads are frequently shared among students for projects or various classes. The challenge is to provide each learner with a personalized environment where their data is securely stored. To address this, Apple introduced the “Shared iPad“ concept, which is ideal for educational settings. Students are assigned individual profiles, allowing them to log in and access their personal data and apps.

Additionally, using the Classroom app is recommended to streamline teaching workflows. The app enables teachers to save lesson progress and continue seamlessly in the next session. The Classroom app also caches login data, speeding up the login process for both teachers and students.

iPads in Business: Efficiency and Data Protection for Companies

Businesses also have numerous scenarios where employees need to share iPads, such as in shift work or specific projects. Multi-user capabilities allow each user to have personalized configurations. This not only simplifies user management but also ensures privacy and security since all employees access their individual profiles.

With MDM solutions, the user management process becomes even more efficient. Apps, VPN access, and security policies can be applied to individual profiles without customizing each device manually. Companies benefit from enhanced efficiency and improved data control.

Setting Up Shared iPads: Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses and Schools

Setting up a shared iPad involves specific configuration steps. Shared iPads are configured to allow multiple users to log in while keeping their data separate. Administration is handled via the Apple School Manager or the Apple Business Manager, paired with an MDM system.

• Registration in Apple School/Business Manager: First, the device must be registered on one of these platforms.
• Assigning the Shared iPad Configuration: The shared usage setting is then enabled via the MDM system.
• Assigning User Profiles: Through MDM, specific profiles are assigned to users, granting access to certain apps and features.

This process ensures that no data is mixed between users, and each individual experiences a secure, personalized workspace.

Cortado MDM: The Ideal Solution for Shared iPads

Cortado MDM provides businesses and educational institutions with a comprehensive solution for professional management of shared iPads. Cortado has specific features designed to simplify the configuration and usage of shared devices.

• Individual User Profiles: Administrators can create and assign unique user profiles that activate automatically upon login.
• Centralized App and Content Management: Cortado MDM enables centralized management of apps, data, and security policies for all shared iPad users.
• Optimized Resource Management: IT teams maintain a clear overview of all devices and resources, enhancing efficiency and reducing administrative effort.

Thanks to Cortado MDM’s comprehensive features, shared iPad usage in both schools and businesses becomes straightforward and efficient.

Conclusion: Efficient Management of Multi-User iPads with MDM

The ability to create multiple user profiles on an iPad is a significant advantage for businesses and schools. With the right tools, like Cortado MDM, shared iPads can be efficiently configured and securely managed. In educational institutions, combining this setup with the Classroom app ensures a controlled learning environment, while businesses benefit from improved data management and flexible device usage.

For professional implementation and management, Cortado MDM is the ideal solution to optimize iPad use in multi-user environments.