For many years, organisations managing Apple devices have often found themselves choosing between Microsoft Intune and Jamf Pro. Whilst Intune has been an excellent choice for organisations already invested in Microsoft 365, Jamf has traditionally led the way when it came to advanced Apple device management.
However, that conversation is beginning to change.
A shifting Apple management landscape
Microsoft Intune has made steady progress in Apple device management over recent years, driven by customer demand and Apple’s evolution of modern device management frameworks.
One of the most significant changes is Apple’s introduction of Declarative Device Management (DDM). This moves Apple management away from a traditional command-and-response model towards a “desired state” approach, where devices are responsible for enforcing and maintaining their own configuration. This improves reliability, speeds up policy enforcement, and reduces reliance on frequent device check-ins.
Due to these changes, Intune has expanded its capabilities for iOS and iPadOS, with more consistent configuration options, improved software update management aligned with Apple’s latest guidance, and better reporting and visibility.
Intune’s strength: integration and consolidation
A key advantage for Intune is its position within the wider Microsoft ecosystem.
Apple devices can now be managed alongside Windows endpoints using a unified identity and security framework through Entra ID, Conditional Access, and Microsoft Defender. This allows organisations to apply consistent policies across all device types without relying on multiple management platforms.
For many organisations standardised on Microsoft 365, this consolidation reduces complexity, improves visibility, and simplifies day to day endpoint management.
As a result, Intune is increasingly seen as a capable cross-platform endpoint management solution rather than a Windows-only tool with limited Apple support.
Jamf continues to be a strong, Apple-focused platform that delivers depth and flexibility for organisations with complex macOS and iOS requirements.
However, Intune has closed enough of the historical gaps that many organisations are now re-evaluating their approach to Apple device management. The decision is no longer simply about capability, but about finding the right balance between functionality, integration, and long-term strategy.
If you or your customers have any questions about this or any other Intune topic, please speak with your Business Development Manager or email partners@infinigate.cloud and request a session with our Professional Services team.