1. What is the new Application Sync mode?
The new Application Sync mode provides customers with control over how Esper-managed apps are handled during blueprint convergence. It introduces two modes:
- Enforce: Only apps listed in the blueprint will remain on the device. All other Esper-managed apps are uninstalled. The default mode. Any devices that have Esper Agent below 8.0 will adhere to this mode.
- Do Not Enforce: All Esper-managed apps, even those not listed in the blueprint, remain on the device along with the apps defined in the blueprint.
2. Why was the new Application Sync introduced?
Previously, the application synchronization process was unpredictable, as the entire logic was handled on the device side by the Esper Android Agent (sometimes called a DPC). This often led to unexpected uninstallation of apps, creating instability on devices. The new Application Sync brings more predictable, cloud-based control, closer to customers’ desired state.
3. What does each mode do in terms of app handling?
- Enforce: Only apps specified in the blueprint are retained. All other Esper-managed apps installed through templates, commands, or previous blueprints are uninstalled.
- Do Not Enforce Esper-managed apps remain on the device even if they are not listed in the blueprint.
4. How do I select the Application Sync mode for a blueprint?
You can choose the Application Sync mode during blueprint creation in the Apps & Configurations section. By default:
- New blueprints are set to Enforce.
- Existing blueprints remain in Enforce mode unless manually changed.
5. What are the requirements for using Do Not Enforce mode?
The device must be an Android device and will need Esper Agent 8.0 or higher to support Do Not Enforce mode. If the Esper Agent version is below 8.0, Enforce mode will be the default behavior.
6. Can Application Sync modes uninstall pre-loaded or side-loaded apps?
No. Application Sync modes only affect Esper-managed apps. Pre-loaded or side-loaded apps are not uninstalled by either mode.
7. What happens if I switch from Do Not Enforce to Enforce mode?
When switching from Do Not Enforce to Enforce mode, all previously installed Esper-managed apps that are not in the current blueprint will be uninstalled.
8. Does the Application Sync mode impact app downgrades?
Yes. App downgrades are only supported in Enforce Mode. Do Not Enforce mode does not support app downgrades.
9. Are there any compatibility issues if the device has an older Esper Agent version?
Yes. If the device runs a version older than Esper Agent 8.0, only Enforce Mode will function, as Do Not Enforce mode is supported only on Esper Agent 8.0 or higher.
10. Can we revert to an older version of an app using Application Sync?
Yes, but only in Enforce Mode. Enforce mode allows app downgrades, whereas Do Not Enforce mode does not support this functionality.
11. How can I verify which apps will be retained or removed before convergence?
Currently, there’s no preview. However, reviewing the apps listed in the blueprint and checking the mode will help estimate which apps will remain on the device.
12. Why would I use Enforce or Do Not Enforce?
Enforce mode was designed with strict compliance in mind. It adheres to the blueprint by uninstalling, hiding, or disabling any apps that aren’t listed in the blueprint.
Do Not Enforce, on the other hand, is for more flexible use cases. For example, if you’d like to test an app version on a few devices in the field before rolling it out to your wider fleet, you’ll be able to keep those devices on the same blueprint. You might also work with devices where apps are installed by their users, giving you control over critical app settings while apps remain remain uninstalled.
13. I don't see Enforce or Do Not Enforce in my blueprint. When can I expect to get it?
Enforce and Do Not Enforce modes have been completely rolled out as of April 14, 2025. If you experience issues with these settings, reach out to Esper Support.
14. Where do I find more information?
You can refer to the blueprints section and Application Syncs articles to find more information about Application Sync Modes.