New research from Panasonic Business states that over 70% of tablets and handheld devices in businesses (excluding mobile telephones) use the Android operating system, with 60% of device buyers saying Android was being integrated into their organisations.
However, some businesses believe that they should be security patching their devices more regularly.
The study, which queried 250 UK technology buyers, estimates that most businesses update their Android operating systems an average five times a year, but some businesses think that they should be security patching their devices up to four times a year more than they currently do.
Most businesses employ a variety of security patches, with 66% of companies relying on an IT department, and almost 40% using a mobile device management solution.
The research, carried out by Opinion Matters on behalf of Panasonic, suggests that the use of Android tablets and handhelds is expected to increase, with the majority of growth occurring within the next three years.
The top three benefits of Android over other operating systems were highlighted by contributors to the research as flexibility, security and affordability.
Jan Kaempfer, general manager for marketing at Panasonic computer product solutions, said: “The march of Android mobile devices into the business world continues apace but how IT departments effectively manage and secure these devices remains a challenge”
He added “It is important that buyers recognise that not all Android mobile devices are equal. They should look closely at the management and security functionality being offered by their vendor and their Android engineering experience.”
“IT departments can save considerable time and money automating their updates by choosing the right device with the right management and security functionality.”