14 DAY TRIAL // Redmond-based software giant Microsoft is gearing up for the release of a new version of Windows Intune, and has already published some documentation on the matter.
The company did not make an official announcement on the matter, but it did make available for download a “Windows Intune April 2012 Pre-Release Getting Started Guide,” which makes reference to an April “pre-release” of the service.
The new flavor of Windows Intune is meant to bring along a range of new features and enhancements, yet only some of them will be available as part of the pre-release version.
Moreover, Microsoft notes that this iteration of the service is meant only for use in test environments, and that it should not be linked to existing production servers.
The full flavor of Windows Intune should follow shortly, and it will offer support for connecting it to existing production infrastructure.
For those out of the loop, we should note that Windows Intune was released as an integrated, cloud-based client management solution that packs a series of tools, reports and upgrade licenses to the latest version of Windows.
Through Windows Intune, computers can be easily kept up-to-date and secure. Users can also access and install licensed software, in addition to being able to perform a multitude of other common tasks.
The full release of the new Windows Intune will deliver, among other features, support for mobile devices, including mobile phones and tablet PCs such as Windows Phone 7, Apple iPhones, iPads, and Android devices.
Those who would like to learn more info on what will be included in the new version of Windows Intune should have a look at this PDF file available from Microsoft’s servers.
Microsoft hasn’t provided specific info on when the full flavor of the service will arrive, but ZDNet’s Mary Jo Foley claims that the pre-release could be announced as soon as this week, at the Microsoft Management Summit 2012 conference in Las Vegas.