Apple Business Manager is a comprehensive, web-based portal designed for IT administrators in corporate environments. It integrates the functionalities of the former Device Enrollment Program (DEP) and Volume Purchase Program (VPP). This allows organizations to automate device enrollment (zero-touch deployment), purchase and distribute apps and books in volume, and create and manage Managed Apple IDs for employees. It serves as the central console for overseeing the entire lifecycle of company-owned Apple devices.

B. Apple Configurator: This is a macOS application for hands-on device setup and configuration, often via a direct USB connection, not the primary web portal for automated management.

C. Apple School Manager: This portal offers similar functionality to Apple Business Manager but is specifically tailored for educational institutions, with features for students, teachers, and classes.

D. Managed Apple ID portal: This is not a standalone portal. Managed Apple IDs are a feature created and administered within either Apple Business Manager or Apple School Manager.

1. Apple Inc. (2024). Apple Business Manager User Guide. In the "What is Apple Business Manager?" section

it states: "Apple Business Manager is a simple

web-based portal for IT administrators to deploy iPhone

iPad

Mac

and Apple TV devices all from one place. You can easily provide users with access to Apple services

set up device enrollment

and distribute apps

books

and software — all from a single web-based portal."

2. Apple Inc. (2024). Apple Platform Deployment. In the section "Apple School Manager

Apple Business Manager

and Apple Business Essentials

" the guide specifies: "Apple Business Manager and Apple School Manager are services that let you automate device deployment

purchase and distribute apps and books

and manage roles in your organization." This clearly defines the portal's purpose.

3. Apple Inc. (2024). Apple Platform Deployment. The "Intro to Managed Apple IDs" section clarifies their role: "Managed Apple IDs are created in

and owned and managed by

an organization in Apple School Manager or Apple Business Manager." This confirms they are a feature within the portals

not a separate portal.