IBM Unveils MobileFirst Portfolio For Enterprise Mobility Push

MobileFirst encompasses mobile security, analytics and application development software, as well as cloud-based services and mobile services. The MobileFirst portfolio is the latest move by IBM to increase its presence in the growing mobile solutions market.

"IBM continues to shift to higher growth plays where we see double-digit growth," said Kristen Lauria, vice president of marketing, IBM Mobile and Business Integration Software. "Mobile is one of those areas, and IBM sees it as a cross-company play -- software, services, everything -- as well as transformational for clients' business models."

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While the MobileFirst portfolio doesn't include any new stand-alone products, it does have several enhanced and optimized versions of existing IBM Software products as well as brand-new, mobile-focused services.

Specifically, the MobileFirst portfolio includes the IBM MobileFirst Platform, which includes an expanded version of IBM Worklight, single sign-on capabilities for multiple applications, and a new beta for Rational Test Workbench for mobile app testing; IBM MobileFirst Security for scanning application vulnerabilities across all major mobile operating systems via a new version of AppScan; an updated version of IBM EndPoint Manager that includes enhanced support for bring-your-own-device (BYOD) programs in the enterprise; and an expanded version of IBM's Tealeaf CX Mobile called MobileFirst Analytics for more insight into mobile users' behavior.

Along with IBM Software products, the MobileFirst portfolio includes cloud and managed services for deploying mobile solutions; MobileFirst Strategy and Design Services to help clients construct and roll out effective mobile strategies; MobileFirst Development and Integration Services for rolling out mobile infrastructures and managing mobile applications; and MobileFirst Enhanced Network Infrastructure Services for mobile-optimized network integration and performance.

In addition to the MobileFirst solutions, IBM announced a new partnership with AT&T around application development; software developers can now use IBM Worklight to access AT&T APIs in the cloud. Big Blue also rolled out Ready for MobileFirst program for ISVs looking to embed mobile technology in their products.

PUBLISHED FEB. 21, 2013