iOS for German authorities: What is Apple Indigo?

Apple Indigo, smartphone, iPhone, iPad, security

Authorities have particularly high demands on hardware and software. The Federal Office for Information Security classifies Apple products, among others, as possible options. A special iOS system also makes this possible. We’ll explain to you what Apple Indigo is.

Apple devices such as the iPhone and iPad have become an integral part of German households. But smartphones and tablets from Apple are also very popular in authorities.

As early as 2022, the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) took a closer look at iOS and iPadOS. At the end of 2022, the Federal Office confirmed that Apple’s devices were suitable for use.

This is partly due to Apple Indigo. iPhones and iPads can therefore also be used for the particularly important “classified information – for official use only”.

What is Apple Indigo?

Apple Indigo is an acronym that stands for iOS Native Device In Government Operation. With an additional layer of security, iPhone and iPad can also be used in authorities.

Because Indigo separates the regular operating system from the official content. This means the latter can be better protected against manipulation.

The respective authority can even determine how separate these areas should be. These can be normally functioning iPhones with secure government communication that employees can also use privately. But the iPhone can also become one Feature phone become.

For this reason, Apple Indigo may only be released by authorized sales partners. In this way, authorities should be able to ensure that third parties do not tamper with it.

Mobile device management on iPhone and iPad

Apple can also comply with BSI requirements with regard to VPN and mobile device management. For this reason, the US group has one in mid-June 2024 Certification received from the Federal Office for Information Security.

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Mobile Device Management is primarily necessary to set up Apple Indigo on conventional iPhones and iPads. The authority’s respective specifications are set up in this way and can then be managed centrally.

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The article iOS for German authorities: What is Apple Indigo? by Maria Gramsch first appeared on BASIC thinking. Follow us too Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.



As a Tech Industry expert, I believe that iOS for German authorities, also known as Apple Indigo, is a significant step forward in ensuring the security and efficiency of government operations. This specialized operating system provides a secure and reliable platform for German authorities to communicate, collaborate, and access sensitive information without compromising data privacy.

Apple Indigo offers a range of features tailored specifically for government use, such as enhanced encryption, secure messaging, and strict access controls. These features are crucial for protecting sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access by malicious actors.

Furthermore, Apple Indigo streamlines administrative processes and improves productivity by providing seamless integration with government systems and applications. This allows authorities to quickly and efficiently access the information they need to carry out their duties effectively.

Overall, Apple Indigo represents a significant advancement in technology for German authorities, offering a secure and efficient platform for their operations. I believe that this specialized operating system will greatly benefit government agencies in Germany and set a new standard for secure communication and data management in the public sector.

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