Google EDLA and GMS: A Game-Changer for Interactive Displays

The world of education technology is constantly evolving, and one of the most significant shifts in recent times is the emergence of "EDLA-certified" interactive displays with "GMS" integration. But what exactly are EDLA and GMS, and how do they impact schools and organizations looking to acquire new interactive displays? Let's delve into this game-changing development.

What is EDLA?

EDLA stands for ‘Enterprise Devices Licensing Agreement’- a program introduced by Google at the end of 2022. Its primary purpose is to enable solution providers to offer devices with built-in ‘Google Mobile Services’ (GMS).

What is Google Mobile Services (GMS)?

In essence, ‘Google Mobile Services (GMS)’ bundles all of Google's most popular apps and APIs together for Android devices. This comprehensive suite includes Google Search, Google Drive, Chrome, YouTube, and the Google Play Store, amongst others.

Until recently, GMS was primarily available for smartphones, tablets, TVs, and wearables. However, the EDLA program expanded the list of eligible devices, now including enterprise solutions such as interactive smart boards.

The Advantages of GMS on Smart Boards

The integration of Google Mobile Services on smart boards offers a multitude of benefits, with three major advantages:

1. Official Access to the Google Play Store

The inclusion of the official Google Play Store on smart boards allows users to download and install apps directly onto their interactive displays. This feature opens up countless possibilities for educational games and productivity tools, making teaching and work more dynamic and engaging.

2. Seamless Integration with Google Tools

Previously, accessing Google for Education tools like Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides from smart boards was not straightforward. Users had to either connect a laptop or use a web browser to access these apps. Now, with GMS, these tools can be easily installed on the board, providing convenient access to Google's productivity suite.

3. Improved Device Security

Google Play, through its Play Protect service, plays a vital role in device security. It checks apps for suspicious behaviour, prevents the download of potentially harmful apps, and scans and removes previously installed apps that exhibit malicious behaviour. This added layer of security is crucial in educational settings.

An Important Distinction

Before Google's official platform support for large-format interactive displays was announced in late 2022, smart board providers were not authorized by Google to include GMS and Google Play on their devices. Any instances of Google Play on such devices were not sanctioned by Google and might have presented compatibility and security risks.

Interactive Displays with GMS Integration

An example of one of the interactive displays we can supply with GMS integration is the brand BenQ who have taken a significant step forward with their BenQ Board Pro RP04 and BenQ Board Master RM04. These smart boards are covered by the Google EDLA and represent BenQ's first foray into devices with built-in Google Mobile Services. Here's what sets them apart:

- Familiar and Intuitive User Interface: The GMS-integrated BenQ Boards offer an intuitive, tablet-like interface that allows users to customize their screens and access Google Search through voice commands.

- Powerful Education and Collaboration Tools: BenQ Boards come with EZWrite, a feature-rich whiteboarding software designed for engaging classes and discussions. They also feature InstaShare, a wireless screen sharing solution that enhances presentation and collaboration.

- Hassle-Free Centralized Management: IT administrators can take advantage of BenQ's Identity and Access Management (IAM) system for synchronizing Google Workspace Directory and managing user accounts. BenQ's Device Management Solution (DMS) facilitates remote configuration, updates, analytics monitoring, and app management.

In conclusion, the integration of GMS into interactive displays is a significant advancement for education technology. It provides official access to Google's ecosystem, streamlines the use of Google tools, and enhances device security. Many GMS-integrated smart boards offer an excellent example of how this technology can transform the learning and teaching experience.

If you have further questions about EDLA, GMS, or the Interactive Display Board offerings, don't hesitate to reach out to our team to arrange a product demo on one of the many options we have available.