This blog details the process of buying apps through the volume purchase program in Apple Business Manager and deploying them to managed devices. To do this, you need to connect your MDM tool (Microsoft Intune) with Apple Business Manager. I've written a blog on how to establish a VPP token, which you can review for guidance on this setup, https://www.cloudtekspace.com/post/creating-a-vpp-or-location-token-in-apple-business-manager-and-syncing-with-microsoft-intune
What are the advantages of using the VPP program instead of the App Store for adding or purchasing an application?
VPP (Volume Purchase Program) apps offer organizations benefits such as bulk purchasing, seamless distribution, Silent Installtion, central license management, enforced updates, and license revocation.
Key Benefits such as
Bulk purchasing: Acquire apps in large volumes, possibly at a reduced cost, removing the necessity for users to buy apps individually.Â
Centralized management: Administrators can effortlessly deploy apps to all necessary devices from one place, overseeing licenses and updates centrally.Â
Silent installation: Applications can be deployed on devices without user involvement, guaranteeing uniformity throughout the organization.Â
No Apple ID needed: Users can access the app without having to create personal Apple IDs, making deployment easier.Â
License control: Administrators have the ability to remove licenses from devices when an employee departs from the organization, enabling the license to be reassigned.Â
App update management: Oversee updates via the VPP to guarantee all devices are running the app's latest version.Â
Step 1: Log in to your Apple Business Manager account and go to Apps and Books in the left panel. Search for the app you need to purchase or add under the VPP program. Select the location under Assign to and enter the required quantity, which corresponds to the number of users or devices you need to assign the apps to. Tap on Get, and then tap on OK to confirm. Once completed, you will receive an email confirmation.
Step 2: Go to the connector option in Intune and synchronize the VPP program token. Once the synchronization is complete, you will be able to view the purchased or added applications under the iOS/iPadOS apps list.
The App Type "iOS Volume-Purchased Program" indicates that the app was added through the VPP program.
Allocate the application to the appropriate devices or users by groups as necessary or available.
Conclusion
In summary, utilizing the Volume Purchase Program (VPP) alongside Microsoft Intune can greatly simplify your organization's app management process. By adhering to the steps detailed in this guide, you can effectively buy, deploy, and oversee applications on all your devices. The advantages of bulk purchasing, centralized management, silent installation, and license control make VPP an essential tool for any organization aiming to improve its app deployment strategy. For additional help or more comprehensive guides on related subjects, feel free to explore our other blog posts or contact us for support. Happy app managing!