In the post, Microsoft explains that the new licensing service comes from a changing dynamic in the meaning of a device. The company points to the evolving modern workplace and how devices are changing. IT is no longer just about the PC, but also includes IoT devices and collaborative hardware like Surface Hub. Furthermore, people are increasingly using bring-your-own (BYO) devices. The new Intune device-based subscription is now available to help cover the demands of an undefined device environment. “Microsoft Intune is the most comprehensive unified endpoint management platform to manage and secure this proliferation of endpoints in your organization. We are excited to share a licensing update today that further lowers your total cost of ownership (TCO).” Available as a per device and per month model, the Intune device-based subscription works across devices even if they are not specific to a single user.
Further Limitations
However, the Device SKU does come with some important caveats. Chief among them is the lack of user-based security and management features. For example, email and calendaring protections. Microsoft also says the SKU is not to be used in shared device scenarios if a device is managed through the user: “Shared devices that are not affiliated with any user identity can leverage this license, for example, Android Enterprise purpose-build devices and kiosks as well as Windows kiosks. “This license may provide compelling value for devices using bulk enrollment methods such as Windows Autopilot, Apple Business Manager or Google zero touch enrolment, when the devices don’t require user affinity and no user targeted features such as user-based enrollment, Intune Company Portal, conditional access, and such.”
