Do you manage Android devices in regions without Google Mobile Services (GMS)? Are you tired of:
• Guessing on how to deploy app configurations to Non-GMS devices correctly?
• Lacking visibility into why certain settings aren’t applying?
• Facing delays in troubleshooting non-GMS devices?
If so, you’re not alone. Non-GMS devices (like Huawei, Amazon Fire tablets, or enterprise kiosks) require specialized management—especially when pushing app configurations. MaaS360’s Feedback Channel for Managed App Configurations gives you the visibility and control you need.
Note: This feature is already available for GMS devices, now we have added support for Non-GMS devices.
Overview
MaaS360 enables organizations to manage Android devices effectively, including those operating in regions where Google Mobile Services (GMS) are unavailable or on devices that lack GMS support. Non-GMS devices pose unique challenges, especially when utilizing app configurations. This article focuses on enabling the Feedback Channel for managed app configurations on non-GMS devices, ensuring better control and troubleshooting for administrators.
What Are Non-GMS Devices?
Non-Google Mobile Services (GMS) devices are Android devices that do not have preinstalled Google services like Gmail, Google Maps, or Google Play Store. This limitation may arise due to:
• Regional Restrictions: Some countries restrict access to Google services.
• Manufacturer Choices: Device manufacturers may opt not to include GMS.
• Custom Operating Systems: Devices running forked versions of Android, like Amazon Kindle.
Examples of Non-GMS Devices:
• Devices shipped without GMS (e.g., Amazon Kindle).
• Devices operating on closed networks, preventing communication with GMS.
Features of Non-GMS Devices in MaaS360
Under App Management the following feature is supported for Non-GMS devices:
Managed App Configuration
Administrators use managed app configurations to push remote settings for apps.
• Support is limited to enterprise apps or apps compatible with non-GMS frameworks.
App Configurations
Administrators can use app configurations to push configuration settings for Enterprise apps remotely.
App developers define managed app configurations and program the app to deploy remote settings. Administrators use these managed configurations to remotely push configuration settings for the apps. App configurations are deployed with the Enterprise apps when the apps are distributed through the App Catalog. MaaS360 allows administrators to add multiple app configurations for an app so that each configuration can be distributed to different groups or devices.
This feature allows administrators to monitor and track app configuration deployments.
Steps to Enable Feedback Settings
1. Navigate to portal:
Setup > Settings > App Settings > Basic > App Configuration Settings
2. Enable:
Toggle "Enable Feedback for App Configuration."
Benefits:
• Track configuration feedback and resolve errors.
• Gain insights into configuration status at the device level.
Tracking Managed App Configuration Feedback
MaaS360 provides detailed insights into configuration status via the portal. Feedback allows administrators to verify successful deployments and address issues.
Where to View Feedback:
1. MaaS360 Devices Summary Page: Check the “App distribution” section and the configuration status of the app distributed to the device.
2. App Summary Page: Under App Catalog, review specific Enterprise app details and their app configuration status. Here, troubleshoot the app's configuration if necessary.
Considerations When Enabling Feedback
• Data Usage: Enabling feedback can increase device data usage, potentially affecting performance.
• Limited App Support: Feedback is available only for a subset of apps that are supported on Non-GMS devices.
Conclusion
Enabling the Feedback Channel for managed app configurations on Non-GMS devices ensures smooth app management by getting the feedback provided by the users and troubleshooting within MaaS360. While non-GMS devices lack certain functionalities tied to Google services, this feature bridges the gap, providing administrators with the necessary tools to maintain performance and resolve issues effectively.
By leveraging this capability, businesses can confidently manage Non-GMS devices, enhancing their operational efficiency even in restricted environments.
