Microsoft tightens security within Intune
Microsoft has initiated stricter security measures within Intune, impacting organizations and users who have not promptly updated their mobile work apps. Since January 19, those who haven't updated have been unable to access business emails. This shift, as reported by Neowin, is a long-warned-about measure with visible consequences for end users.
The focus is on Intune Mobile Application Management. Microsoft now mandates apps built with recent SDK versions or correctly packaged with the latest Intune wrapper. Non-compliant apps are automatically blocked, affecting internal, custom, and Microsoft-owned apps like Outlook, Teams, and OneDrive on Android and iOS, if not updated via the App Store or Play Store.
The Android Company Portal is crucial. An outdated portal can hinder other managed work apps on the same device. A single overdue update can disrupt the entire mobile work environment. On iOS, the emphasis is on the SDK or wrapper, impacting organizations with custom business apps.
Microsoft provided a generous transition period, notifying organizations via the Microsoft 365 Message Center since September 2025. The intended effective date was December 15, 2025, with enforcement following shortly after. This explains the recent blocking of users. Microsoft deemed this period necessary for administrators and development teams to adapt their apps and policies.
Microsoft differentiates between Android and iOS. Android apps update automatically once the Company Portal and at least one Microsoft app are updated. iOS apps require developers to actively switch to new SDK or wrapper versions, posing a risk of blockages for non-maintained internal apps.
Microsoft offers administrators tools to prevent issues. Conditional Launch policies enforce minimum SDK, app, or Company Portal versions, warning or blocking users before access loss. This highlights the growing importance of app and update management in mobile working, with organizations risking productivity loss due to outdated software.
