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260-Mile Challenge: Pushing the Limits for The Brain Tumour Charity

Last month, XMA’s Rob Harper and Ben Knights took on a 260-mile Nottingham-St Albans-Nottingham charity bike challenge for the second time, aiming to beat last year’s 24-hour finish and raise vital funds for a cause that is very important to us. 

 

A Cause Close to Home 

This year, all funds raised are for The Brain Tumour Charity, the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. This cause is particularly significant for the XMA team, as a member of our Nottingham team is currently recovering from treatment. 

 

And We’re Off! 

The ride began at XMA Nottingham at 06:00, with the goal of reaching St Albans by mid-afternoon, refuelling, and immediately starting the return leg. We caught up with one of the riders, Ben Knight, for his report on how the challenge unfolded. 

 

A Strong Start 

“With the dust settling, it’s time to reflect on the highs and the lows of putting yourself on the absolute limit for a good cause,” Ben begins. 

“This year’s event was at risk before we even left. With Rob having multiple wrist operations and me pulling both calf muscles a month out, it was doubtful we were going to make the start line. Nevertheless, with lots of bike modifications, we made it and got off to a flying start, arriving at St Albans 45 minutes ahead of last year and still feeling relatively fresh.” 

The welcome at the halfway point provided a much-needed boost. “A big thank you to all that came to meet us at reception,” says Ben. “The speaker playing ‘Eye of the Tiger’ was a brilliant touch and the warm macaroni cheese was an even better one!” 

 

Hitting the Wall 

“After a slightly longer pit stop than planned, we got back on the road and made excellent progress until we hit an absolute brick wall around the 200-mile mark. The wheels quickly fell off.” 

“With fatigue rapidly enveloping our bodies and minds, our speed dissipated. We started faffing and stopping more, and even resorted to power napping on the side of the road. We were waiting for the sunrise which gave us such a lift last year, only to find that, although the sun came, the energy boost did not. We were left to slog it out.” 

To make a difficult situation worse, a critical equipment failure struck just miles from the end. “My rear derailleur cable snapped and left me to ride with basically no gears – something that was not welcome after 16 hours in the saddle!” 

 

Triumphant Return 

At approximately 07:30, after 18 hours, 52 minutes and 12 seconds in the saddle, Ben and Rob arrived back at XMA Nottingham. They were, in Ben’s words, “battered and bruised but ultimately triumphant at achieving our goal.” 

 

A Heartfelt Thank You 

“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who was able to donate. With money tight for many, your support is genuinely appreciated. We also thank our marketing team for their support, and XMA for agreeing to match the funds raised by the team.” 

Donations will remain open until the end of September. If you would like to contribute, please use the link below. 

Donate Now

When It Comes To Windows 10 End-of-Support: Don’t Replace, Refresh Your Device Strategy

When It Comes To Windows 10 End-of-Support: Don’t Replace, Refresh Your Device Strategy

The final day of support for Windows 10, October 14, 2025, is now just weeks away. For many organisations, the initial reaction is to focus on the operating system upgrade itself. However, the move to Windows 11 presents a more fundamental challenge that an OS update alone cannot solve: hardware compatibility.

A significant portion of existing device estates simply do not meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11. This reality is forcing a difficult and often unplanned conversation about a large-scale device replacement. For many, this will feel like a reactive and expensive problem.

But it doesn’t have to be. This deadline should not trigger a panic-buy. Instead, it should be the catalyst for a more strategic, data-driven approach to your entire device estate. It’s time to move from a reactive replacement cycle to a SMART Device Refresh.

The Cost of Inaction and Unplanned Refresh Cycles

Organisations still running on Windows 10 after the deadline will be required to purchase Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for every non-compliant device to avoid exposure to cyber threats. This is a significant financial drain with no return on investment. The cost escalates dramatically, doubling in the second year and doubling again in the third, creating a recurring budget item spent only to maintain an obsolete OS.

Furthermore, many organisations are already caught in a cycle of reacting to device failures and budget availability rather than making informed, data-driven refresh decisions. This approach often leads to overspending on devices that are not suited to user needs, while leaving other areas with inadequate technology that hinders productivity and impacts employee morale.

A Strategic Approach: The XMA SMART Device Refresh

XMA’s SMART Device Refresh service provides a structured, data-driven plan to navigate the Windows 11 transition and optimise your entire device estate for the long term. We help you balance performance, user experience, and cost-efficiency.

Our approach is built on providing actionable insights to make smarter investment decisions. We help you avoid overspending and extend device lifecycles where appropriate, without compromising on security.

How We Help:

  1. Insightful Hardware Assessment: Our first step is a fast-track assessment of your entire hardware estate. We identify which devices are compatible with Windows 11, which ones are not, and which can be redeployed to other roles extending their useful life. This gives you a clear, data-driven baseline for your migration plan, as well as a more sustainable approach to your IT assets.
  2. Data-Driven Procurement: For devices that require replacement, we provide a streamlined procurement service. Our advice is based on a deep understanding of user needs, ensuring you invest in hardware that is powerful enough for the job but affordable enough for your budget. For example, we use insights on application usage to ensure a designer gets the right GPU and a data analyst gets the right CPU, avoiding unnecessary expense while improving productivity.
  3. Flexible Procurement and Lifecycle Management: We understand the pressure on capital budgets. We offer flexible procurement options through public sector frameworks, including financing and as-a-service models that can shift expenditure from CapEx to a predictable operational cost. For a complete solution, our Device Management as a Service (DMaaS) can handle the entire device lifecycle, from procurement and deployment to ongoing support and secure disposal, reducing the burden on your internal IT team.

The Windows 10 end-of-support deadline is a chance to break the reactive cycle of device management and implement a cost-effective, long-term plan that aligns with your organisation’s goals.

Don’t pay the price for delay. Contact XMA today at enquiries@xma.co.uk to build a SMART device refresh strategy for your transition to Windows 11.

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New Laptops for Less Than a Latte? The Smarter Formula for Public Sector IT

For anyone trying to make their IT budget add up, the equation is already difficult. Now, add a new, urgent variable: the end of Windows 10 support in October 2025. It’s a massive deadline breathing down our necks, and it comes just as public sector budgets are feeling the squeeze more than ever. So, the big question is, how on earth do you modernise your tech without breaking the bank? 

For years, the go-to move for public sector organisations has been to buy a mountain of new PCs, a huge capital spend that makes the finance team wince and ties up cash for years in kit that starts losing value the moment it’s unboxed. It’s time to ask: is that really the smartest play anymore? 

It’s time for a recalculation. It’s time to find a smarter formula for funding Public Sector IT. 

 

Give Yourself Some Breathing Room 

Shift that huge, one-off cost into a predictable, manageable monthly payment. That’s the simple magic of leasing. Instead of a massive Capital Expenditure (CapEx) hit, you move to a simple Operational Expenditure (OpEx) model. 

This means you’re not locking away a fortune in depreciating assets. You have the financial agility to invest in other things your organisation desperately needs, all while knowing your tech costs are fixed, with no nasty surprises. 

Perspective Makes Perfect 

For example, imagine trying to balance the budget at a school. We all know textbooks don’t come cheap. So, what if you could get a brand-new, AI-ready Surface device for a student for less than you’re already spending on books that are out of date the second you buy them? It’s a bit of a no-brainer. 

Our Surface leasing plans (partnering with CF Corporate) start from just £5.95 a week. When you see it like that, giving every worker access to top-tier technology doesn’t seem like a dream, it seems like a sensible, strategic decision. You could likely equip an employee with a new device for less than the weekly bill for coffee and biscuits in the staff room. 

 

Solving for X(MA): Adding an Expert to Your Equation 

At XMA, we have a proven theorem for making Public Sector IT work. We are on all the right public sector frameworks, like the Crown Commercial Service (CCS), so you know you’re in safe hands. XMA are also one of the UK’s only Surface Authorised Surface Providers (ASP). 

But what does being an ASP actually mean for your organisation? It means peace of mind, plain and simple. When a device inevitably gets dropped or damaged, it means: 

  • Your data stays safe. Forget shipping devices to unknown locations. Repairs happen in our own secure, in-house facilities under strict protocols that safeguard sensitive student and staff data.  
  • You get back to teaching, faster. Our efficient, return-to-base repair service minimises workplace disruption. Certified Microsoft technicians get devices diagnosed, fixed, and back in action quickly.  
  • No warranty headaches. We only use authentic Microsoft parts for repairs, so your device’s full warranty coverage is maintained.  
  • A single point of contact. We manage the entire process, from diagnosis to delivery, so you’re not juggling multiple contacts and chasing updates.  

XMA and Surface are a winning formula: our Device-Management-as-a-Service model, backed by our ASP status, takes the entire device lifecycle—from deployment to maintenance and end-of-life—off your plate. Pair that with a leasing plan that breathes life back into your budget, and you’re well prepared for the future. 

The 2025 deadline isn’t a problem without a solution. It’s a chance to stop using a flawed formula and find one that adds up to a better result for your employees and your budget. 

Ready to recalculate your organisation’s IT budget? Explore our Surface leasing options and let’s find the right formula for you. Discover more about our ASP status here and explore DMaaS here. Get in contact with us via enquiries@xma.co.uk or talking to your XMA Account Manager today. 

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9 Ways Schools Can Meet the Moment with Digital Confidence

Michael Conlon walks us through how schools can tackle the digital education landscape.

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Michael Conlon

Michael is XMA’s Education Transformation Consultant. With over 25 years in teaching and leadership he has sat through more strategy meetings and indulged more fads than he cares to admit, but still loves help schools make sense of digital transformation—without the jargon, and ideally without the panic.

The UK Government’s digital and technology standards for schools and colleges set a clear direction: resilient infrastructure, inclusive access, and strategic leadership. At XMA, we believe in empowering educators with agnostic, future-ready solutions that meet these standards and elevate learning. Here’s how:

  1. Cloud Platforms That Work for Everyone

Whether it’s Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, we guide schools through seamless cloud adoption, ensuring secure access, data protection, and long-term cost efficiency.

  1. Cyber Security That Protects Learning

From endpoint protection to staff training, our cyber resilience solutions align with DfE standards and keep digital environments safe for students and educators.

  1. Devices Designed for Education

We supply and configure devices that meet curriculum needs—whether it’s 1:1 student access or shared classroom sets—ensuring performance, security, and longevity.

  1. Digital Inclusion for Every Learner

We help schools audit and implement accessibility tools, ensuring that all students, no matter their learning challenges, can engage fully with digital learning.

  1. Filtering and Monitoring That Safeguards

For you’re core duty, our safeguarding solutions meet statutory guidance, giving schools peace of mind with intelligent filtering and real-time monitoring.

  1. Leadership That Drives Strategy

We work with MATs and Local Authorities to establish their digital maturity, and develop digital strategies that align with governance standards, budget realities, and long-term goals.

  1. Sustainable Server and Storage Solutions

Whether cloud-first or hybrid, our server and storage options need to meet environmental and security standards.

  1. Professional Development That Sticks

Technology is redundant if people don’t know how to use it effectively. We offer training and support that builds digital confidence across teaching and support staff.

  1. Keeping your eye on the horizon

XMA excel at anticipating and leaning into tomorrow’s technologies to bring solutions to customers that add value and improve how they work.

At XMA, we don’t push products—we build partnerships. Our agnostic approach means we focus on what works best for your context, your learners, and your goals. If you’re interested in your school becoming more Digital Confident, contact us at enquiries@xma.co.uk. 

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Android Desktop: Potential Use Cases and Benefits

This is the second in a series of blog posts exploring Android Desktop. Our Head of Pre-Sales, Scott Wright, will be looking at the current state of Android Desktop, following its improvement as release approaches, examining use cases, looking at essential apps & peripherals and more. 

Picture of Scott Wright

Scott Wright

Scott is XMA’s Head of Pre-Sales. An IT industry greybeard, he violated his own rule about being an early adopter when he bought the first Android phone at launch and hasn’t regretted that decision.

Most of this blog will be talking about the benefits of a mobile device with any sort of desktop interface, rather than Android Desktop specifically, so before we start that let’s talk for a moment about why the launch of Android Desktop is causing such a buzz. 

Desktop solutions for Android are currently available from several device vendors with Samsung’s DeX being the most established. Motorola Ready-For (also on Lenovo ThinkPhones), Huawei Desktop Mode and Xiaomi MIUI Desktop mode are also available. These solutions are vendor specific which raises concerns for many organisations, should the vendor cease supporting them then the organisation will be forced to change device in order to continue with their device strategy. With Android Desktop as a core part of the Android offering (and Apple promising to follow suit) not only is desktop mode legitimised a standard phone feature but organisations adopting a vendor specific solution like DeX have a fall-back plan that does not require device replacement, substantially reducing risk. As such, there is considerable interest in Android Desktop, even from organisations who are considering or who have adopted a vendor specific solution. 

Below I am going to expound on some of the possible benefits and give examples of the use cases that might realise those benefits. 

Benefits: Managed Device Reduction 

The most immediate benefit for many organisations will be a reduction in devices. Many organisations are issuing both a laptop and mobile to a large cohort of users with fairly light computing requirements. This is especially wasteful for front-line workers for whom the mobile is the primary device and the laptop is an occasional use device. Replacing the managed laptop with a laptop-shaped docking station (“lapdock”, more on these in a future blog post) reduces cost but also reduces the number of devices requiring licences and updates, eliminates a large number of devices as potential sources of data loss (a laptop left in a taxi, for example, cannot contain any data as it is merely a docking station) and more. Shared desktops can also be replaced with docking stations or docking monitors, reducing the number of managed devices.  

Benefits: Shared Desktops 

For users with a mobile device who also use shared desktops, for example many healthcare workers, solutions such as VDI, roaming profiles, follow-me desktop and similar are used to make moving between shared desktops as seamless as possible but typically have substantial cost and complexity associated with them. These solutions and the shared desktops themselves can be eliminated and replaced with docking stations or docking monitors while providing an even more seamless working experience, not only between shared desktops but also between desktop and mobile device, allowing healthcare professionals to transition seamlessly between patient interaction spaces and desk-based working. 

Benefits: Security Implications 

Anywhere that shared devices are in use presents a challenge for data security. Data must not be unintentionally accessible between users and this is especially important in settings where that data is highly sensitive, such as a clinical or law enforcement settings. With most Police officers being issued a mobile device, utilising docking monitors in place of shared desktops for docking stations prevents inadvertent data access between users via the shared device.  Using lapdocks rather than laptops as a car-working solution means that it is impossible for data to be stored locally, reducing the risk associated with device theft. 

This benefit is also useful in other contexts, for example many higher education institutions have a pool of shared devices which are made available to learners. The HE organisation must ensure not only that data does not inadvertently pass between users but also that malware which might be introduced by a user does not impact other users of that shared device. By offering a pool of shared lapdocks, rather than laptops, these concerns can be eliminated. This will, of course, require waiting for most mobile devices to offer a desktop mode – likely several years before most Android and Apple devices are running a suitable operating system version. 

Benefits: Attracting Younger Workers / Learners

Many of the young people entering work or higher education have limited Windows / MacOS experience. Their personal devices are mobiles or tablets and the bulk of their school IT experience is using Chromebooks or iPads. Several regions will shortly see the first cohort of learners leaving school who have had a Chromebook or iPad as their learning device for the entirety of their secondary education and over the coming years this will increasingly become standard.

Offering a mobile-centric working experience, even if only as an option, may allow business and HE organisations to make themselves more attractive to these young persons that they are seeking to attract.

So, in summary, while this solution may not be suitable for all users at this time, organisations may be able to realise a reduction in managed devices and their associated costs, increased user satisfaction and an improved security posture.

The next post will explore the current state of Android Desktop in Beta and the functionality offered. If you’re interested in exploring an Android desktop solution, contact us at enquiries@xma.co.uk.

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Intelligent Endpoints: The New Standard for IT Success

Is your IT estate working for you, or are you simply working for it? 

Modern devices provide a strong foundation for any organisation, delivering the performance and built-in security that business operations depend on. But as environments become more complex, that foundation is no longer enough. The real challenge has moved beyond the device itself and into the user’s experience. When that experience is poor, the consequences are significant. 

The focus must now be on the Digital Employee Experience (DEX). Far from a passing trend, it’s now a strategic imperative. According to Gartner, by 2026, 50% of digital workplace leaders will have a DEX strategy and tool in place.1 The reason is simple: data shows that 74% of workers feel they lack the right technology to be successful2, and a staggering 34% are living with ongoing IT problems that their service desk is unable to fix.3 

This is a gap that needs to be closed. The solution requires a fundamental shift in perspective: turning your endpoints from passive tools into proactive, intelligent assets. 

 

The Next Evolution: From Endpoint to Insight Point 

So how do you bridge the gap between device potential and employee reality? The answer lies in data. 

HP’s Workforce Experience Platform (WXP) is a cloud-based platform designed to meet this challenge directly. It gives IT teams centralised visibility and control over their entire digital ecosystem by collecting and analysing data from all connected endpoints. 

 

A Single Platform for Your Entire Fleet 

A common obstacle to achieving a unified view of IT is the diverse nature of a typical device estate. Real-world environments are not homogenous. They are a complex mix of hardware and software from different vendors, acquired over many years. 

HP’s WXP is designed for this reality. It is a true multi-vendor platform, built to be completely manufacturer and OS agnostic. Whether your estate consists of PCs from Dell and Lenovo, Apple Macs, or a mix of all three, WXP provides a single source of truth. The platform sees it all, integrating data not just from PCs, but also from printers, video and audio endpoints, virtual machines, and software applications to give you a complete picture. 

The platform works by gathering and processing billions of data points from across this entire IT estate. Its AI engine analyses this telemetry to identify performance trends, predict hardware failures, and flag security issues (often before they impact your users). This is how you move from a reactive “break-fix” model to a proactive one. It’s the difference between fighting fires and preventing them from ever starting. 

 

Real-World Problems Solved by WXP 

Adopting a platform like WXP solves the specific, resource-draining problems that IT teams face every day. 

Problem

Nearly half of all employees don’t contact IT when they experience issues that impact their work.  

More than an inconvenience, it’s a silent drain on productivity and a source of constant friction. Every unreported issue is a hidden cost, and every unresolved ticket is a crack in your operational foundation. 

The WXP Solution

The platform’s predictive analytics identify issues before a user even knows to complain. It can flag that batteries on a group of devices are failing and need replacement under warranty, or identify that Teams is crashing frequently across the organisation. 

This allows IT to address the root cause, slash ticket volumes, and improve first-call resolution rates. 

Problem

A single non-compliant device is a potential entry point for a catastrophic breach. Manually trying to keep up is no longer a viable strategy, a gamble you can’t afford to lose.

The WXP Solution

WXP provides a single dashboard to monitor fleet-wide security in real-time. It delivers specific, actionable alerts, such as “Windows Secure Boot disabled on ≥ 5% of devices” or “BitLocker disabled on 3% of devices”.

This gives IT teams the forensic data needed to remediate vulnerabilities and prove compliance without the burden of manual audits.

Problem

Every piece of under-utilised hardware gathering dust in a storeroom is wasted budget.

Every kilowatt of unnecessary power consumption is a missed opportunity to reduce costs and meet crucial environmental goals.

The WXP Solution

The platform helps improve IT ROI by identifying under-utilised assets that can be re-deployed elsewhere in the business, reducing unnecessary hardware spend.

On the sustainability front, it can monitor power consumption across the device fleet, providing the tangible data needed to support environmental reporting and drive down operational costs.

 

Why This Matters for Stretched IT Teams

For Enterprise IT Directors, their mandate is to mitigate risk, govern a complex estate, and align technology with business strategy. WXP delivers the data needed to make that happen. It provides the evidence required to move from tactical firefighting to strategic leadership, making informed investment decisions and proving the business value of the IT function to the board.

For Public Sector IT Managers, the pressure to deliver more with less is relentless, alongside strict security and procurement rules. WXP helps these teams by automating routine compliance and security checks, freeing up specialist resources to focus on critical projects. The platform’s ability to provide hard data on asset utilisation and power consumption provides the justification needed to prove value-for-money—a cornerstone of public sector accountability.

As workplace environments become more complex, ignorance is not an option. Intelligence is everything. By transforming endpoints into sources of intelligence, the HP Workforce Experience Platform provides the tools to build a more secure, efficient, and resilient IT environment.

To see exactly how the HP Workforce Experience Platform can be applied to your organisation, book a free, no-obligation demo with one of our specialists today. Talk to your Account Manager or contact us at enquiries@xma.co.uk.

Footnotes: 
1. Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Digital Employee Experience Management Tools, Dan Wilson, Tom Cipolla, et al., 6 March 2025. Gartner is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, and MAGIC QUADRANT is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. 
2. HP Internal Research 
3. Forrester, State of the Services Desk, 2024 Published February 21, 2024 

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XMA is a Disability Confident Leader!

We are proud to announce that XMA has officially been recognised as a Disability Confident Leader. 

This is the highest level of the government-backed scheme. For us, it is more than an accreditation; it is the external validation of a principle that sits at the core of our business: a diverse, inclusive workforce is fundamental to our success. This achievement comes after 15 months of dedicated work since we were awarded Disability Confident Employer status in April 2023, with a significant focus over the last seven months to reach this Leader level. 

Achieving this required a commitment to tangible action, not just words. Internally, we have focused on improving the physical accessibility of our sites, such as installing new and automatic doors at our Nottingham offices—an upgrade that benefits all our employees. We have delivered inclusive leadership training to our own advocates and have started a culture change by asking and embracing challenging questions about our own processes, ensuring we do not stand still on topics like recruitment. 

A key part of being a Disability Confident Leader is moving beyond our own business to champion inclusion in our wider community. Collaboration has been central to our approach. We have: 

  • Attended several collaborative Employee Resource Group (ERG) events with HPE at their London offices, where we raised awareness for the Disability Confident scheme. 
  • Worked with partners during these events to set SMART goals for disability-focused ERGs. 
  • Opened our own Inclusive Leadership training to representatives from our partners, including HPE, Kocycle, and charities like Reach Learning Disability. 
  • Worked with Reach Learning Disability’s ‘FlowerPod’ to create volunteering opportunities for our Nottingham-based staff, and in doing so, had the chance to promote XMA’s commitment to social value directly to the High Sheriff of Nottingham. Julia Sandhu from Reach Learning Disability had this to say:  

“When companies like XMA work with organisations like Reach and achieve Disability Confident Leader status, they’re not just improving how they work — they’re helping break down those barriers and driving real change. It has been inspiring to work with XMA and to be part of their journey.” 

This status is a direct result of the focused work of our people. Our Disability Confidence Ambassador Alison Warner, who has led this initiative, shared her personal motivation: 

“The world of disability and careers contains a lot of fear for both sides of the recruitment process. I built on my own experiences to get passionately involved in achieving Disability Confident Leader status with XMA so that through the ESG group, employees can make a difference. My aim going forward is not for XMA to stay still, but to achieve higher standards year on year, and for employees to feel confident in disclosing their disabilities.” 

Alison’s words capture our position perfectly. This is not an end-point. It is a milestone that strengthens our resolve to continue building a business where every individual is valued and has the support they need to succeed. 

Android Desktop: An emergency option for when your laptop is broken, or a paradigm shift in client devices?

This is the first in a series of blog posts exploring Android Desktop. Our Head of Pre-Sales, Scott Wright, will be looking at the current state of Android Desktop, following its improvement as release approaches, examining use cases, looking at essential apps & peripherals and more. 

Picture of Scott Wright

Scott Wright

Scott is XMA’s Head of Pre-Sales. An IT industry greybeard, he violated his own rule about being an early adopter when he bought the first Android phone at launch and hasn’t regretted that decision.

What is Android Desktop?  
Android Desktop is a desktop-like experience for Android phones when connected to an external display, and typically also to a keyboard and mouse. It provides a larger display area, a taskbar, applications in moveable, resizable windows and so forth with the intent to make your phone a practical device to work on. It is currently available only on beta versions of Android 16 which are available on selected Pixel and other devices but will become a core Android feature. Apple is also working on an equivalent for iPhone but, as usual, they are keeping their cards close to the chest. More on that when there is news. 

A desktop mode for phones, when connected to suitable equipment. is not a new idea. Several phone manufacturers have offered their own takes on this, most notably Samsung with their DeX offering that launched in 2017. DeX was arguably a little ahead of its time, applications were not universally available with a web interface and phone hardware was significantly less powerful than today. There is also a concern with adopting vendor specific solutions, although Samsung, for example, are as far from a fly-by-night company as you can get. The availability of a vendor agnostic solution which is a core part of the Android operating system has put this back onto many organisations’ radars due to potential reductions in devices, benefits for frontline workers and more. 

How to Access Android Desktop 
If you want to try this yourselves then you’ll need a Beta version of Android 16 (ideally the current version QPR1 Beta4 but at least Beta2) and a suitable device. A Pixel 6 or newer is supported and some other vendors do also offer Beta versions of Android to their users. Enrolling in the Beta program and updating your device is quick and easy with a Pixel and you can revert back but do be aware this will likely require a device wipe. For other vendors see their instructions and warnings, some are more involved and complex than others.  

All of the usual caveats around Beta programs do, of course, apply. There will be incomplete functionality, bugs, issues and more so do consider if you should do this to your device. I have a laptop, my personal phone and a spare work phone that just needs the SIM swapping over to be running again so I have lots of options if I hit a problem. Do also note, if this is a work-provided device, then you should seek permission before installing a Beta OS and may need your device profile changing to permit that and to permit access to the developer options (which you will need). 

If you are using a Pixel device then go to the “Your eligible devices” section at the link below, opt in and then perform a system update. I found this to be a very straightforward process. 

Android Beta Program

After installing Android 16 Beta then you will need to enable the developer options. To do this go into settings and navigate to About phone > Build number (bottom of the menu). Tap on the build number repeatedly until you either get a message telling you that developer options are enabled or until you are asked to unlock the device (pin, biometrics, etc). The developer options will now be available. It’s a very long menu so search for Enable desktop experience features and enable it.  

Now you can connect your Android device to suitable peripherals, most USB-C laptop docks and docking monitors will work to provide a display, keyboard and mouse to your Android device. 

More To Come 
There are lots of questions to be answered – What’s the best way of accessing M365 applications?  What specification of device is needed for a good experience? What are the essential peripherals, both for the desk and when travelling? What apps cannot be used successfully? Follow along with me as I explore what Android Desktop can and can’t do as I try to live with it as a work device. 

The Right Tech for the Academic Year: A Win for Students, Parents, and Your IT Team

We all know the end of summer brings a familiar chaos. For parents, it’s the frantic rush for uniforms, stationery, and the single most important (and debated) item on the list: the student device. For schools and Multi-Academy Trusts, it’s about ensuring the technology you’ve chosen can actually withstand the reality of a new academic year. 

This year, we followed the back-to-school journey of one family to see how the right technology choices can make all the difference.  

Meet the Millers  
Proud mum Sarah has two children heading into demanding years: Chloe is starting a graphic design course at her independent school, and Tom is off to Further Education college. 

The great device debate in their house was short-lived. They’d heard good things about the usual suspects, but after kicking the tyres, they needed technology that could keep up with the daily reality of student life. 

 

The Right Tools for the Job 

For Chloe, the budding artist, the choice was the Samsung Galaxy Book3 360. As a 2-in-1 device, it gives her the flexibility she needs. She can type up essays in traditional laptop mode, then flip the 360-degree hinge and use it as a tablet for sketching.  

The real clincher was the combination of the stunning Super AMOLED touchscreen and the natural, paper-like feel of the included S Pen. It means the colours in her digital paintings are incredibly vibrant and accurate, giving her a significant advantage in her creative work. 

For Tom, it was all about practicality. He needed a reliable workhorse for his FE course that wouldn’t break the bank. The Galaxy Book4 was the perfect fit. While it’s an affordable, entry-level model, it doesn’t compromise on quality or performance. It’s a sleek, solid all-rounder with a modern Intel® Core™ processor, more than capable of handling his research, reports, and presentations. 

 

Built for the Realities of Student Life 

Chloe’s day starts in the art studio. She flips her Book3 360 into tablet mode, the high-resolution screen showing every detail of her reference photos. Using the S Pen, she sketches directly onto the screen, the pressure sensitivity allowing her to create fine lines and broad strokes just like a real pencil. In her next lesson, History of Art, she switches to laptop mode to type notes, the full-sized keyboard making it easy to keep up. At lunch, she and her friends gather around her device in ‘tent’ mode to watch a design tutorial – the Super AMOLED screen is so bright and clear they can all see it perfectly, even with the lunchtime glare. The flexibility is a game-changer. 

Tom found himself in a classic student bind: a 15-minute break to prepare for a seminar on a topic he’d only half-read the night before. Instead of panicking, he pulled up the lengthy research article on his Galaxy Book4 and asked Microsoft Copilot to summarise the key arguments. In minutes, he had a clear, concise overview, ready for the discussion. It was a perfect example of working smarter, not harder, showcasing how the device’s built-in AI tools can be a massive help for students on a tight schedule. 

Here are a few other ways these devices are designed for the rigours of education: 

  • All-Day (and then some) Battery: Both Chloe and Tom can leave their chargers at home. The battery life on the Galaxy Book series is huge. If they ever do get caught short, the super-fast USB-C charger can deliver hours of power in the time it takes to drink a coffee.  
  • The Samsung Ecosystem in Action: This is where things get really clever. Tom often jots down notes on his Samsung phone between classes, where they automatically sync and appear on his Galaxy Book4 when he sits down to study. Chloe uses her Samsung tablet as a second screen, giving her a dedicated space for reference images while she works on her main canvas. Sharing work is simple and instant with Quick Share, so there’s no more “the dog ate my homework, sir” or, more accurately, “the email got lost in my outbox”.  
  • Lightweight and Portable: These laptops are incredibly thin and light, sliding easily into a packed backpack without adding bulk.  

 

Peace of Mind for Parents and IT Directors 

This is where the story becomes particularly relevant for education buyers. A happy parent with a child using a reliable device is a parent who isn’t calling your IT helpdesk. 

What if a student device does have an issue?  

This is where the support comes in. Every B2B Samsung Notebook from XMA includes a 3-year, business-grade warranty as standard. If your device suffers a fault, Samsung will repair your device at our UK service centre – if it can’t be fixed, it will be replaced free of charge. This is a level of practical, responsive support that keeps students learning without disruption. If the devices are part of XMA’s Device-Management-as-a-Service, there’s even less hassle, with 24/7 break-fix, Gold Stock ready to go, and active device monitoring for any hardware and software issues. 

Furthermore, the entire range is protected by multiple layers of security, including Samsung Knox, Intel secure core at the chip level, and Windows Pro, keeping student and school data safe from threats.  

How a Stress-Free September becomes a Lower TCO 

So, what does the Millers’ stress-free September mean for a School or Multi-Academy Trust? 

It means: 

  • Fewer IT Support Tickets: Durable devices and a simple, effective warranty process mean your IT team spends less time dealing with broken hardware and more time on strategic initiatives. 
  • Improved Learning Outcomes: Students with reliable, long-lasting batteries and seamless ways to work across devices are better equipped to stay productive and engaged. 
  • Demonstrable Value: You are providing families with technology that not only performs brilliantly but is built to last the course, offering a lower total cost of ownership and proving that budget-friendly doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality.  

The Samsung Galaxy Book range provides a robust, secure, and high-performing alternative that is built for the specific demands of the education environment. 

Ready to explore how Samsung’s range can benefit your institution? Schedule a consultation with an XMA specialist to see the devices for yourself. 

Contact us at: enquiries@xma.co.uk 

The PSTN and ISDN Switch-Off Is Happening. Your Business Needs a Plan.

The UK’s traditional phone network, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), which also includes Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) lines, is being permanently switched off. The final date for this is 31st January 2027. As of September 2023, it is no longer possible to buy new PSTN or ISDN services.

This is not a simple change. It will affect any device that uses a traditional phone line. This includes not just your office phones, but also other systems such as:

  • Fax machines
  • Alarm systems (intruder and fire)
  • Door entry systems
  • CCTV
  • EPOS (Electronic Point of Sale) terminals
  • Franking machines
  • Telecare and medical alert devices

If your business relies on any of these, you need to act now to avoid service disruption. One year ago, we told you about the initial changes. Now, let’s see if there have been any crucial updates.

Why is this happening?

The PSTN is old technology. It’s expensive to maintain and cannot deliver the speed or reliability required for modern business communications. The move to digital, IP-based services like Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a necessary technological step forward.

What does this mean for your business?

All voice and data services that currently use the PSTN or ISDN will need to be migrated to an IP-based alternative. This means you will be using your internet connection to make calls and transmit data. The benefits of moving to a digital system include:

  • Cost Savings: Lower monthly fees and reduced hardware costs are common.
  • Flexibility: Your staff can work from any location with an internet connection. It is also straightforward to add or remove users as your business needs change.
  • Improved Functionality: Modern VoIP systems offer advanced features like video conferencing, call routing and integration with other business software.
  • Business Continuity: In the event of an outage, calls can be automatically rerouted to other locations or mobile devices, ensuring you stay connected.

What you need to do

The 2027 deadline is final. To ensure a smooth transition, you should start planning now. XMA can help you by:

  1. Auditing Your Systems: We will identify all devices and services in your organisation that rely on the PSTN or ISDN. This includes not just the obvious, but also the easily overlooked systems like alarms and payment terminals.
  2. Assessing Your Connectivity: We will analyse your current internet connection to ensure it has the capacity and reliability to handle your voice and data traffic. We can recommend and implement any necessary upgrades.
  3. Migrating Your Services: We have partnered with RingCentral, a leading provider of cloud communications solutions, to offer a straightforward migration path to VoIP. We will manage the process for you, from planning to implementation, to ensure a seamless transition with minimal disruption to your business.

Don’t wait until the last minute. The move to all-IP is a significant change, and leaving it too late could result in a loss of service and impact your business operations.

Talk to your XMA Account Manager, or contact us today at enquiries@xma.co.uk to discuss your requirements and create a migration plan that is right for your business.

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