Lightspeed Updates Mobile Manager for Windows 8.1

Lightspeed Systems has updated its mobile device management (MDM) system for schools, Mobile Manager, to support the latest version of the Windows 8 operating system while introducing other new features.

Mobile Manager is a tool designed to help schools implement and manage mobile devices, and it includes cross-platform policy controls, app deployment and reporting features. While Mobile Manager already supported the Windows 8 operating system, as well as iOS, OS X and Android, it required significant updates to support the major new point release of Windows.

New features of Mobile Manager include:

  • Student Information System (SIS) integration;
  • Support for Windows Store App Deployment Program;
  • Time-based policies to allow different in-school and after-school use;
  • Device restrictions, including Windows Error reporting, data roaming, OneDrive control and Smart Screen enable;
  • Bluetooth control;
  • Device status updates;
  • WiFi and VPN provisioning; and
  • Parental controls.

This Mobile Manager update also introduces support for Mobile Learning Essentials using Windows mobile devices. Mobile Learning Essentials combines Mobile Manager with Lightspeed Systems' Web Filter and My Big Campus learning management system (LMS) to provide a complete system for using and managing mobile devices in the classroom, according to the company.

One district that is already using Lightspeed Mobile Manager to manage Windows 8.1 devices is San Diego Unified School District. The district rolled out Windows 8.1 two-in-one touch tablet devices this year as part of its 1-to-1 initiative. Teachers in the district use Mobile Manager to install apps on student devices, control passcodes and manage policies directly through the My Big Campus classroom LMS.

Further information about Lightspeed Mobile Manager can be found on the company's site.

About the Author

Leila Meyer is a technology writer based in British Columbia. She can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • The AI Show

    Register for Free to Attend the World's Greatest Show for All Things AI in EDU

    The AI Show @ ASU+GSV, held April 5–7, 2025, at the San Diego Convention Center, is a free event designed to help educators, students, and parents navigate AI's role in education. Featuring hands-on workshops, AI-powered networking, live demos from 125+ EdTech exhibitors, and keynote speakers like Colin Kaepernick and Stevie Van Zandt, the event offers practical insights into AI-driven teaching, learning, and career opportunities. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to integrate AI into classrooms while exploring innovations that promote equity, accessibility, and student success.

  • chart with ascending bars and two silhouetted figures observing it, set against a light background with blue and purple tones

    Report: Enterprises Are Embracing Agentic AI

    According to a new report from SnapLogic, 50% of enterprises are already deploying AI agents, and another 32% plan to do so within the next 12 months..

  • zSpace Imagine Learning Solution

    zSpace Debuts Headset-Free AR/VR System

    Immersive learning company zSpace has announced the zSpace Imagine Learning Solution, a headset-free AR/VR laptop system designed for elementary education. The all-in-one platform integrates hardware, software, and hands-on lessons to create dynamic learning experiences for young students.

  • AI robot with cybersecurity symbol on its chest

    Microsoft Announces New Agentic AI Tools for Security Copilot

    Microsoft has expanded its AI-powered cybersecurity platform, introducing a suite of autonomous agents to help organizations counter rising threats and manage the growing complexity of cloud and AI security.