1. Generative AI in UEM
Generative AI is making its way into Unified Endpoint Management (UEM), but it’s still in the early stages. Vendors are talking a big game, but current capabilities are limited. According to Tom Cipolla, Senior Director at Gartner, most enterprises report little practical use of genAI in UEM today. The real action is in anomaly detection, where AI analyzes historical data to spot security threats and system inefficiencies.
Andrew Hewitt, Principal Analyst at Forrester, points out that features like AI-powered chatbots and natural-language data queries are still underdeveloped. They exist, but they’re not reliable at scale. This will change as the technology matures, but for now, executives should view genAI as an emerging tool and not as a fully operational advantage. The goal should be to experiment with AI in controlled, high-impact areas like threat detection while maintaining strong automation for everything else.
2. Automation is driving UEM forward
UEM is all about efficiency. Companies are looking to move faster, manage devices with fewer resources, and cut down on manual IT tasks. That’s why automation is the real game-changer right now. Businesses need solutions that can flag issues and fix them autonomously.
Intelligent automation is taking over endpoint management, with features like Autonomous Endpoint Management (AEM) stepping in to enforce policies, deploy patches, and keep devices compliant without constant human oversight. Tom Cipolla at Gartner points out that AEM uses real-time performance, compliance, and risk data to optimize device management. The result? Less IT overhead, fewer security vulnerabilities, and a better digital experience for employees.
For companies operating at scale, automation is key. Reducing human intervention means fewer mistakes, faster resolutions, and a more resilient IT infrastructure. The key for executives is to prioritize automation that delivers tangible business outcomes, not only flashy features.
3. Data is the real power play in UEM
If there’s one thing driving UEM forward, it’s data. Every device, every endpoint, every system interaction generates data—real-time and event-driven. And UEM platforms are finally learning to harness it. This is about turning raw data into actionable insights that improve security, performance, and user experience.
Andrew Hewitt at Forrester describes this shift as “the biggest transformation in UEM since modern Windows management.” Companies are leveraging AI and machine learning to process vast amounts of endpoint data, enabling predictive maintenance, real-time anomaly detection, and automated system optimizations.
For executives, the takeaway is simple: The companies that leverage data effectively will have an operational edge. Real-time analytics mean IT teams can move from reactive to proactive, preventing issues before they disrupt workflows. It also means better decision-making at every level, from IT security to user experience design.
4. Cybersecurity is becoming a core UEM function
The line between endpoint management and cybersecurity is disappearing. Vendors are integrating native security tools directly into UEM platforms, making threat detection and remediation a core function rather than an add-on. This shift is driven by necessity—cyberattacks are getting more sophisticated, and IT teams need built-in protection that scales with the enterprise.
According to Andrew Hewitt, vendors are doubling down on vulnerability management, whether through their own solutions or third-party integrations. AI-powered threat detection is gaining traction, with systems scanning endpoints for weaknesses and automatically deploying patches or security measures. This is critical because traditional security methods—manual updates, reactive responses—are too slow for today’s threats.
For C-suite leaders, the message is clear: Security has to be embedded in endpoint management from day one. Standalone security tools are useful, but they won’t be enough. Companies should invest in UEM solutions that integrate security at every level, from policy enforcement to automated remediation. This ensures a stronger defense without increasing IT complexity.
5. Market competition and vendor shifts
The UEM market is evolving fast. One of the biggest moves was VMware’s end-user computing division being sold to KKR and rebranded as Omnissa. There was some uncertainty about how customers would react, but according to Tom Cipolla, Omnissa has been well-received as an independent vendor. Broadcom’s divestment means Omnissa can now focus entirely on endpoint management without being tied to VMware’s broader strategy.
At the same time, new players are entering the market from the remote monitoring and management (RMM) and endpoint patching space. Names like NinjaOne, Automox, and Tanium are making a play for enterprise customers by offering specialized management tools. Gartner reports that vendors like Adaptiva, Jamf, and Tanium are developing OS-specific endpoint management tools to complement—or compete with—traditional UEM platforms.
For executives, this means more options and more competition. Established vendors are innovating, while newcomers are bringing fresh solutions to market. Companies should reassess their endpoint management strategies regularly, ensuring they’re working with vendors that align with their long-term business needs.
6. Pricing and business models are shifting
UEM pricing is evolving. The cost of basic mobile device management (MDM) features is holding steady—or even declining—thanks to increased competition. But vendors are finding new ways to monetize advanced features. AI-driven automation, digital employee experience (DEX) modules, and deep analytics now come at a premium.
Tom Cipolla at Gartner notes that many vendors are simplifying licensing models, offering bundled tiers to make pricing more transparent. Phil Hochmuth at IDC points out that while baseline UEM services remain affordable, companies are willing to pay for automation and analytics that improve efficiency.
For businesses, the strategy is straightforward: Pay for value, not only features. Basic endpoint management is no longer a competitive advantage—it’s expected. The real differentiators are automation, AI-driven insights, and security integrations. Investing in premium capabilities now can lead to cost savings and productivity gains in the long run.
Key executive takeaways
- Generative AI in UEM is still emerging: AI-driven automation is evolving, but current generative AI capabilities in UEM remain limited. Leaders should view it as a long-term investment rather than a fully deployable tool, focusing on anomaly detection and automation-first strategies.
- Automation is driving UEM forward: Intelligent automation is reducing IT workloads and improving efficiency. Executives should prioritize autonomous endpoint management (AEM) to accelerate patching, enforce compliance, and lower operational costs.
- Data is the real power play in UEM: Real-time analytics are transforming endpoint management, making IT more proactive. Companies that harness AI-driven data insights will improve security, streamline operations, and enhance the digital employee experience.
- Cybersecurity is becoming a core UEM function: Security is being embedded into UEM platforms, eliminating the need for fragmented endpoint protection tools. Leaders should invest in solutions that integrate automated vulnerability management and AI-driven threat detection.
- Market competition and vendor shifts: Industry consolidation and new competitors are reshaping UEM. Decision-makers should assess vendor stability, product roadmaps, and pricing models to ensure long-term strategic alignment with business needs.
- Pricing and business models are shifting: While basic UEM functions remain cost-effective, premium features like AI automation and deep analytics now carry a higher price tag. Executives should budget for advanced capabilities that drive long-term efficiency and security gains.
