Remote iOS Configuring
If you’re like me, you regularly remotely control one device from another. Using one of a variety of VNC viewing applications I can usually gain access to my Mac(s), either from across the room or from across the country. I also use Apple’s Remote Desktop application in order to login to a remote server and Citrix’s GoToMeeting software in order to remotely control a client’s Mac from afar.
With the prevalence of iOS devices and the sometimes more complex software configuration needed, it would be great if Apple added the VNC service to iPads, iPhones, and iPod touches not only to control them, but for the critical task of configuring them, either for an individual or say, for instance, every person in your company?
If you’re keen to jailbreak your device, there’s nothing stopping you from installing a VNC server on your phone and remotely controlling it. For the rest of us, Apple has made no indication that they would like to make available the necessary ports and protocols. So what are your options for remotely configuring an iOS device —perhaps that one you intend to gift to your parents this holiday season?
First, grab a copy of Apple’s iPhone Configuration Utility for your Mac or for your PC. Apple’s iPCU can be used to create configuration profiles, carry payloads which can configure what Wi-Fi networks the iPad can automatically join, what email accounts are configured, and what restrictions are put on the device. For a complete support document on what it can do, visit: http://help.apple.com/iosdeployment-ipcu/mac/1.0.
After you’ve made your configurations, export the configuration profile and deploy it to the device. You can plug it into your Mac or PC, email it, or host it on a website. I will often put the .config file in my public Dropbox folder and send the link to the recipient. Once they tap the link in their mobile Safari browser, the iOS device will prompt them to install it and automatically configure their device. Apple’s iPCU is an invaluable tool as an Apple Consultant.