Apple continues enterprise push with new Cisco partnership, will optimize networks for iOS

The two Silicon Valley stalwarts will work together to ensure that iOS devices work more efficiently on Cisco-powered networks, including deeper integration with Cisco's industry standard voice and video communications products. Corporate users might be able to use their iPhone or the Cisco handset on their desk interchangeably, for example.

"iOS is the world's best mobile platform, and nearly every Fortune 500 and Global 500 company today has put iOS at the center of their mobile strategy," Apple chief Tim Cook said in a release. "iPhone and iPad have become essential tools for the modern workforce and are changing the way work gets done. Together with Cisco, we believe we can give businesses the tools to maximize the potential of iOS and help employees become even more productive using the devices they already love."

This marks the second time in the past year that Apple has sought to expand its enterprise share by collaborating with traditional corporate IT providers. Last July, the company unveiled a wide-ranging partnership with IBM.

Like IBM, Cisco has deep roots in the enterprise. The company is the largest provider of enterprise networking devices and networked services in the world, and its offerings touch nearly every facet of corporate telecommunications.

"Through this engineering and go-to-market partnership, we're offering our joint customers the ability to seamlessly extend that awesome Cisco environment to their favorite iOS devices," Cisco Executive Chairman John Chambers said. "Together, we're going to help teams achieve higher levels of productivity and effectiveness."

Other Cisco services that will see tighter iOS integration include WebEx, Spark, and Telepresence.