Apple Inc. and GE are partnering to bring Predix, GE’s industrial Internet of Things (IoT) platform to iPhone and iPad devices, the firms announced on Wednesday.
Along with the partnership comes a new software development kit for Predix. It will allow iOS developers to build their own apps on the platform. It will be available for download Oct. 26.
As part of the announcement, GE says it will also standardize on iPhone and iPad devices issued for its employees. It will also promote Mac as the desktop of choice for its global employee base of more than 330,000. In turn Apple will promote Predix as its preferred IoT analytics platform for customers and developers.
Apple and GE say the apps will give industrial operators more insight and visibility into the performance of their equipment and operations right from their iPhone or iPad. Workers can be notified when an issue with a piece of equipment arises. From there, workers can collaborate with remote teams when performing inspections and repairs, using their devices to help collect data.
GE will also be developing its own apps for internal use and for their customers. For example, its Asset Performance Management Cases app, available via the App Store, assists industrial businesses increase machine reliability and availability while reducing maintenance costs and managing operational risks. Exelon Corp. is one customer named as an example of using this app in practice.
The announcement should build the case for the use of Apple devices in the enterprise. Already a consumer favourite, Apple has been building its business credibility by forging strategic partnerships. It’s already been working with IBM Corp. since 2014 to bring more enterprise-grade apps to iOS devices. By working with GE on its IoT platform, it could open up the industrial vertical as more likely iOS customers too.
