Apple’s upcoming macOS 26 and iOS/iPadOS 26 release introduces a seamless MDM migration feature that lets IT admins easily move devices to Microsoft Intune without wipes or manual re-enrollment. This integration simplifies device management, enhances security, and reduces admin workload.
Apple Simplifies Device Migration to Microsoft Intune with OS 26
Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference 2025 brought a game-changer for IT admins managing macOS and iOS/iPadOS devices. The new MDM Migration feature, built into macOS 26 and iOS/iPadOS 26, now enables seamless migration from any third-party Mobile Device Management (MDM) to Microsoft Intune — without factory resets or manual re-enrollments.
What’s New: The Magic Behind MDM Migration
This update eliminates one of the biggest headaches in device management: migrating devices smoothly without disrupting users. Apple Business Manager (ABM) integration powers this migration, assigning devices to Intune without wiping data or losing configurations.
“With the new MDM Migration capability, IT admins can transition devices seamlessly and without user disruption.” – Iris Yuning Ye, Microsoft Intune
Another major win: admins consolidate device management across Apple and Microsoft platforms. This ensures consistent security policies and lowers operational complexity.
Major Updates: Step-by-Step Migration Workflow
Pre-migration Prep
- Create a detailed inventory of all devices, noting OS versions and ownership.
- Document all existing MDM configurations like Wi-Fi, VPN, security policies, and deployed apps.
- Set up Apple MDM push certificates in Intune to enable secure communication.
- Integrate Intune with ABM by exchanging keys and tokens—this authorizes Intune as a valid MDM server.
- Rebuild all configurations in Intune to mirror the current setup.
Admin Migration Process
From Apple Business Manager, admins select devices to migrate and assign Microsoft Intune as the new device management server. This process is smooth, as ABM confirms the assignment, enforcing deadlines for enrollment.
3. User Endpoint Experience
Device users receive a notification prompting them to approve the migration. If they miss the deadline, enforced migration kicks in with a full-screen prompt. Once approved, the device downloads the new MDM profile without rebooting.
4. Post-Migration Verification
Admins verify successful enrollment via the Intune admin center dashboard, confirming all devices are listed and configured properly. Testing on a small group of devices beforehand is highly recommended.
Why This Matters for IT Pros
This migration tool reduces downtime and user friction, making it easier for organizations to adopt Microsoft Intune for unified Apple device management. The ability to maintain existing settings means security and compliance don’t skip a beat during transition.
“You can make the switch smoothly to manage your Apple devices all in one place.” – Microsoft Intune Support Team
If your Macs run an OS before 26, Microsoft’s GitHub repo offers migration scripts, making transitions flexible for all environments.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s OS 26 update is a breakthrough for device management, lowering barriers for IT admins to migrate Apple devices to Microsoft Intune. Proper prep, clear communication, and thorough testing will ensure a smooth journey.
Want to share your migration stories or get help? Join the Mac Admins Community on LinkedIn or follow @IntuneSuppTeam on X (formerly Twitter).
Key points from the article:
- New MDM Migration feature built into Apple Business Manager for effortless device transitions.
- Pre-migration steps include detailed device inventory and configuration documentation.
- Secure communication enabled by configuring Apple MDM push certificate in Intune.
- End-users experience minimal disruption with guided and enforced migration notifications.
- Post-migration verification ensures device enrollments and policies are correctly applied.
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