Using an iPhone as a company cell phone and for personal use – is it worth it?

Many companies are faced with the question of whether they should provide their employees with an iPhone as a company cell phone and at the same time allow private use. On the one hand, this reduces the need for a separate device, but on the other hand there are challenges in terms of data protection, security and administration.

In this article, we look at the advantages and disadvantages of using an iPhone as a business and personal device, what technical and organizational solutions exist and how companies can make the best use of them.

Why use an iPhone as a company cell phone and for personal use?

Many employees prefer not to carry several smartphones with them. Especially if the work device is of a higher quality than the private device, there is a desire to use it for both purposes. The following reasons speak in favor of this solution:

• Cost savings: Companies could save on providing an additional device.
• Convenience: A single smartphone for all purposes makes handling easier.
• Better accessibility: No switching between devices, which often leads to missed calls.
• Efficiency: Employees always have all important contacts and apps to hand.

Challenges in business and private use

Even if using an iPhone for both business and private purposes seems attractive, there are some challenges:

1. data protection & security

Companies must ensure that business data is protected against unauthorized access. Private use must not become a security vulnerability.

2. mobile device management (MDM)

Many companies rely on solutions such as Apple Business Manager and MDM software to secure business data, regulate private use and adhere to compliance requirements.

3. separation of business and private data

A clean separation between business and private use is often a challenge. This is where solutions such as dual SIM or special business apps come into play.

Technical solutions for separating private and business use

There are various options for using an iPhone for both business and private purposes:

1. dual SIM function

Many iPhones support a second SIM card as an eSIM. This makes it possible to use business and private phone numbers in parallel.

2. business app solutions

Apps such as Microsoft Intune or VMware Workspace ONE enable a secure separation of business and private data by keeping company data in a protected area.

3. mobile device management (MDM)

Companies can use MDM solutions to manage business applications, grant authorizations or block certain private functions to ensure security and productivity.

MDM vs BYOD – Which is the better solution?

Aspect	MDM	BYOD
Device management	The company has full control over the device.	Employees use their own device, company only has limited access.
Security	Higher, as complete company guidelines can be enforced.	Dependent on the employee’s personal security measures.
Costs	Company bears costs for the device.	Employees bring their own device, reducing costs for the employer.
Flexibility	Fixed company guidelines determine usage options.	Employees use the device more frequently according to their own preferences.

Recommendation: Rent an iPhone instead of buying one

An interesting option for companies is to renting iPhones for employees instead of buying them. The advantages are obvious:

• Lower acquisition costs
• Always up-to-date devices
• Comprehensive support and service
• Flexibility in the event of changes in the company

Mobile device management also makes it easier to manage rented devices.

Conclusion

Using an iPhone as a company cell phone and for personal use can be advantageous for both employees and employers. It reduces costs, increases convenience and reduces administrative work. At the same time, however, security and data protection aspects must be taken into account. These challenges can be overcome with modern dual SIM technologies, MDM solutions and business apps.

By renting iPhones, companies can also reduce costs and benefit from up-to-date hardware at all times. If you are looking for a flexible and cost-effective solution for your company, contact us to find out more about our iPhone rental offers.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions

1. can employees really use their company iPhone privately?

This depends on the company guidelines and the security solutions used. With the right MDM settings, companies can securely separate private and business use.

2. does the dual SIM function on iPhones make sense for this use?

Yes, this means that private and business numbers can be used in parallel on one device without mixing calls or messages.

3. are rental devices for company cell phones a good alternative to buying them?

Yes, especially because of the flexible customization options, low entry costs and end-to-end technical support. We offer a wide range of iPhone models, such as the iPhone 14, for rental.