Replacing enterprise MDM with custom device management

Problem

The company was paying expensive recurring fees for enterprise Mobile Device Management (MDM) software to control their fleet of company owned Android devices. Despite the cost, the MDM solution had significant limitations:

• Devices could still break out of lockdown mode through various user actions
• No way to automatically provision cellular connectivity (eSIM) on new devices
• Limited visibility into what was actually happening on devices in the field
• Couldn't control certain system settings that required deeper access
• Per device monthly licensing added up quickly across their fleet

They needed complete control over their devices, not just what standard Android APIs allow.

Solution

I built a custom Android operating system with management capabilities built directly into the firmware. This eliminated the need for third-party MDM software entirely.

What the custom OS provided:

Complete device lockdown:

• True kiosk mode that users cannot escape (no workarounds through settings, notifications, or system UI)
• Disabled unnecessary features like USB file transfer, Bluetooth, app installation
• Locked down at the operating system level, not just through an app that can be bypassed

Automatic eSIM provisioning:

• Devices automatically activate cellular service when powered on
• No manual SIM card installation or carrier setup required
• Company controls which network profiles/towers devices use

Remote management and monitoring:

• Realtime visibility into installed apps, enabled settings, and device status
• Remote configuration changes to system settings (not just app-level settings)
• Push updates and policy changes to devices in the field
• All management happens through their own server infrastructure (no third-party services)

Cost savings:

• One time development cost instead of ongoing per device licensing
• Complete control without restrictions of commercial MDM platforms
• No vendor lock in or subscription fees

Result

The company deployed devices with management capabilities that exceeded what any commercial MDM solution could provide. They eliminated recurring MDM subscription costs while gaining deeper control and visibility over their device fleet.

The custom OS gave them exactly what they needed without paying for features they didn't use or dealing with limitations of stock Android.

What you get

If your business deploys Android devices and you're hitting the limits of standard MDM solutions or want to eliminate ongoing subscription costs, custom firmware might be the answer. Fixed price development with clear deliverables and no recurring fees.