Apple Should Offer Free IT Certifications
Why Paid Certifications Hinder Apple's Enterprise Growth
Apple's growing presence in the enterprise is undeniable, with increasing numbers of Macs, iPhones, and iPads being used in professional settings. However, Apple's paid IT certifications create an unnecessary barrier to further enterprise adoption. While Apple's training programs are free, the certification exams cost $149 each, totaling nearly $300 for both Device Support and Deployment & Management certifications.
The Goal: Hardware and Services, Not Exam Fees
Apple's core business is selling hardware and services, not certifications. The revenue generated from certification exams is negligible compared to its primary revenue streams. These certifications are essential for ensuring IT professionals can effectively deploy and manage Apple devices, ultimately driving hardware and service sales. Making certifications free would encourage wider adoption and increase the pool of qualified professionals.
Free Certifications Benefit Everyone
Free certifications would benefit not only IT professionals but also Apple itself. This move would remove a financial barrier, particularly for smaller organizations and managed service providers. A larger pool of certified professionals would lead to greater confidence in deploying Apple products within enterprise environments. This strategy aligns with Apple's goal of expanding its enterprise market share. Many other tech vendors also charge for certifications, missing the opportunity to invest in their ecosystems by fostering a larger network of certified professionals.
A Call for Change
Apple's current training programs are a positive step, but eliminating certification fees would be even more impactful. This change would further empower IT teams, solidify Apple's enterprise presence, and remove obstacles for those who support Apple devices daily. For related insights, explore articles on Gemini AI's transformation of Android Auto and hidden Android productivity hacks. This shift would signal Apple's commitment to supporting its enterprise users and further solidify its position in the market. You can also learn about the January 2025 Pixel Update for more context on mobile device management in the enterprise.