IBM has announced the new IBM MobileFirst platform, which aims to help organisations manage apps and mobile devices.
Clients can both build and deploy mobile apps and integrate apps built with third-party tools. MobileFirst is optimised for native, HTML5 and hybrid development, with a tailored version of the app available for iOS applications.
Organisations using the platform will have access to cloud-based or on-premise capabilities. The analytics feature allows developers to build expertise using app feedback and the platform protects user security using advanced authentication processes.
In addition, the platform allows users to build proximity-aware mobile apps and provides a Cloudant module to enable data-rich apps.
The move taps into increasing demand for enterprise app development. Recent IBM research shows that over half of organisations have plans to develop six or more apps in the near future.
"Based on thousands of client engagements, we appreciate that no matter where clients are in the process of executing their mobile strategies, the pressure on speed is creating tremendous business and technology challenges," said Phil Buckellew, vice president, enterprise mobile, IBM.
He added: "With new cloud-based and on premise services we continue to make investments in the IBM MobileFirst Platform to ensure our clients can move at the speed of mobile while securely connecting to the enterprise."
