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New Predix SDK will put iOS at the heart of the fourth industrial revolution.
Tech giant Apple and engineering powerhouse GE are to work together on apps to deliver predictive data and analytics from GE’s industrial internet of things (IoT) platform to iPhones and iPads.
The move is the latest in a string of strategic deals that Apple is making as it strides steadfastly into the enterprise world. As well as partnerships with IBM and Deloitte, Apple forged a deep enterprise relationship with SAP last year, and has worked with Accenture to set up a dedicated iOS enterprise practice.
‘Together, Apple and GE are fundamentally changing how the industrial world works’
– TIM COOK
The pact will see GE’s Predix platform harnessed to enable developers to make powerful industrial IoT apps.
The two companies today unveiled a new Predix software development kit (SDK) for iOS.
Equipped for a new age
“GE is an ideal partner with a rich history of innovation across the industrial world in areas like aviation, manufacturing, healthcare and energy,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO.
“Together, Apple and GE are fundamentally changing how the industrial world works by combining GE’s Predix platform with the power and simplicity of iPhone and iPad.”
The new Predix SDK for iOS will be available to download next week (26 October). The SDK gives developers the ability to make native apps that take full advantage of the industrial analytics from Predix and tap into the ease of use of iOS.
These apps will give industrial operators more insight and visibility into the performance of their equipment and operations. For example, a Predix app can notify a worker on their iPhone of a potential issue with equipment, such as a wind turbine, and allow them to collaborate with remote teams when performing inspections and repairs, collecting relevant data instantly. Such industrial apps could close the information loop faster, ultimately increasing cost savings and minimising unplanned downtime.
“The partnership between Apple and GE is providing developers with the tools to make their own powerful industrial IoT apps,” said John Flannery, chair and CEO, GE.
“Our customers increasingly need to arm their workforces through mobility. Working together, GE and Apple are giving industrial companies access to powerful apps that help them tap into the predictive data and analytics of Predix right on their iPhone or iPad.”
