Close the Apple Gap: Co-Managed macOS & iOS Support for Windows-Centric MSPs
MSPs built for Windows face a growing Apple gap as Macs, iPhones, and iPads flood the workplace. This article explores how co-managed Apple services enable MSPs to deliver expert macOS and iOS support without hiring in-house specialists—boosting client satisfaction while keeping teams focused on core operations.
The Changing Device Landscape
Many MSPs were founded around Windows-based environments. But the modern workplace has evolved—Macs, iPhones, and iPads are now standard in nearly every organization. This evolution introduces new management frameworks, security models, and user expectations that differ significantly from Windows systems. For traditional MSPs, this often creates a skills gap.
Co-managed Apple services close that gap. Instead of hiring and training dedicated Apple engineers, MSPs can partner with an Apple Technical Partner who works seamlessly behind the scenes. The result: full endpoint coverage, happier clients, and minimal disruption to existing operations.
Apple Management Isn’t Windows Management
Supporting Apple devices isn’t just “doing Windows with a different logo.” Apple’s ecosystem operates under its own principles and infrastructure:
- Mobile Device Management (MDM): Profiles, policies, and app deployments managed natively—no heavy agents required.
- Apple Business Manager (ABM): Enables zero-touch enrollment and app licensing so devices are supervised from first boot.
- Built-in Security: Features like FileVault, Gatekeeper, and System Integrity Protection secure macOS, but must be configured thoughtfully to avoid user friction.
Treating Macs like PCs leads to unmanaged devices, frustrated users, and a spike in support tickets. Apple environments demand a purpose-built approach.
Where MSP Teams Get Stuck
Without Apple expertise, many MSPs encounter predictable pain points:
- Misconfigured or incomplete ABM setups, leading to unsupervised devices
- Confusion around Apple ID and iCloud account management
- Missed macOS or iOS update cycles that disrupt workflows
- Excessive time troubleshooting Apple-specific issues
These roadblocks drain billable hours, reduce efficiency, and pull Windows engineers away from their core competencies.
The True Cost of Building It In-House
Hiring and developing internal Apple expertise is resource-intensive. True Apple support requires:
- Different Tools: Apple-optimized MDMs, macOS-specific security platforms, and ABM workflows often separate from Windows toolsets.
- Continuous Training: Apple evolves quickly—your team must constantly adapt.
- Retention Planning: When your trained Apple specialist leaves, so does your investment.
For many MSPs, the ROI of building Apple support in-house is uncertain, while the opportunity cost is high.
Why Co-Managed Apple Services Make Sense
Co-managed Apple partnerships provide immediate access to proven expertise—without additional overhead.
- Instant Expertise: Work with Apple-certified specialists experienced in MDM, ABM, and Apple security configurations.
- No New Licensing Costs: Partners bring their own Apple management tools, avoiding duplication.
- White-Labeled Support: The Apple Technical Partner works behind the scenes, preserving your brand relationship with the client.
This collaborative model expands your service offerings, strengthens customer retention, and eliminates the burden of developing in-house Apple expertise.
Delivering a Complete Client Experience
When Windows and Apple management coexist under one MSP, clients receive a seamless, unified support experience. Your engineers can focus on strategic initiatives and growth while every endpoint—Mac, PC, iPhone, or iPad—remains secure, managed, and monitored.
Ready to Close Your Apple Gap?
Let’s discuss how 2Fifteen Tech can serve as your dedicated, behind-the-scenes Apple partner. Book a quick discovery call today to deliver premium Apple support—without the cost and complexity of building it yourself.
