Apple Adds Remote Control Software

Apple Computer

The software, available now, comes in two versions: a 10-client edition for managing up to 10 Macs, and an unlimited-client edition for managing up to 5,000 Macs in groups of up to 250 computers. The latter version also lets users install the client software on an unlimited number of computers at a single location, according to Apple.

On the corporate front, system administrators based at a central location can use Apple Remote Desktop to provide remote IT assistance, profile systems, reconfigure system settings and distribute applications to hundreds of computers over Ethernet and Apple AirPort wireless networks, the Cupertino-based computer maker said. In the education arena, teachers can use the software to monitor students' computer screens, conduct class demonstrations and interact with individual students using realtime screen-sharing, text-chat and "request attention" functions.

Apple Remote Desktop supports multiple levels of administrator access, each password-protected. Users also can remotely control system shutdown, restart, sleep and wake functions on an individual or group basis. Other features include drag-and-drop copying for fast software distribution and updating, task scheduling, the ability to observe up to 250 computers screens on a rotating cycle of four screens at a time, and the ability to create detailed reports of hardware/software system profiles.

Apple Remote Desktop runs on all Apple Power Mac G4 and G3 computers, including iMac desktops and PowerBook/iBook notebooks. The software's administration and client components both support version 10.1 or later of the Mac OS X operating system, but only the client module supports earlier Mac OS versions (OS 8.1 through 9.2). The 10-client editon of Apple Remote Desktop carries a retail list price of $299, and the unlimited-client version lists at $499. Special pricing is available for education customers, according to Apple.

"Apple Remote Desktop is the easiest way for teachers and administrators to support Mac users in the classroom and remote workgroups," Philip Schiller, senior vice president of worldwide product marketing at Apple, said in a statement.

Over the past year, Apple has raised its profile in the consumer market by opening more than 25 retail stores and sharpening its product lineup with slick hardware (the iBook, PowerBook Titanium and flat-panel iMac computers and iPod MP3 player) and software (the iTunes, iMovie, iDVD and iPhoto audio/video applications). But with the addition of remote management software, Apple further polishes its appeal to business users, industry observers say.

Since Mac OS X's release last March, Apple CEO Steve Jobs has touted the Unix-based platform as a natural for the corporate market, notably digital media, scientific research, publishing, engineering, entertainment and networking companies. More than 2,500 OS X-native applications also are now available or shipping soon, including linchpin Mac software such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop.

At the same time, Apple Remote Desktop gives Apple another offering for its staple education market. Although iBook notebooks and AirPort wireless systems have shown strong appeal among education customers, Apple continues to face rising competition from price-aggressive PC companies like Dell Computer, observers say.