How Developers Can Use TeamViewer to Integrate Remote Access Technology

We recently visited with Alfredo Patron, Vice President of Business Development at TeamViewer, to talk about how app developers can utilize the platform’s remote support, remote access, and online meeting functionality through TeamViewer’s APIs and SDK.

ADM: Can you quickly detail TeamViewer’s main functionalities?

Patron: TeamViewer offers cloud-based remote support and remote access technology to support real-time online support and collaboration. With TeamViewer’s technology, users can control attended and unattended devices, such as point of sale (POS) systems, ATMs and vending machines, as well as computers, smartphones, tablets and IoT-connected devices. 

In addition, TeamViewer offers videoconferencing and online meeting capabilities – allowing users to communicate and collaborate from a range of different locations. With screen sharing, file transfer and voice/video capabilities, users can feel like they are in a meeting without being in a conference room. 

 

ADM: Who is using TeamViewer? Can TeamViewer be used by both individuals and enterprises? 

Patron: TeamViewer is used by both individuals and enterprises large and small. With TeamViewer’s freemium business model, the technology is completely free for personal use – allowing users to stay connected with family and friends through video and remote access. 

For enterprises, TeamViewer offers four different versions and price points, which differ based on business size. From home businesses to Fortune 500, we have options to meet the needs of any size company. In fact, 90 percent of the Fortune 500 rely on TeamViewer. 

ADM: How is TeamViewer’s solution different than a VPN?

Patron: A virtual private network (VPN) extends a private network across the Internet – enabling users in the network to share data. With TeamViewer, users don’t need to be part of any private network. Instead, anyone with the software on their device can securely send and share data. 

ADM: What operating systems does TeamViewer support?

Patron: TeamViewer works across multiple platforms and operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, iOS, Windows Mobile, BlackBerry and Chrome OS. 

TeamViewer 11, the most recent version, supports more Android-operated devices than any other company. Whether it be on a laptop, smartphone or tablet, TeamViewer is able to support a range of devices running an Android system both in attended and unattended mode.

 

ADM: Do you support mobile platforms?

Patron: We do. Using TeamViewer’s remote support technology, users can access mobile devices from their Windows, Mac OS or Linux computer. It also works the other way around if you are on the go with your mobile device and need to have remote access. Users can also provide remote support to mobile apps using our screen sharing SDK.

With our top-rated Universal Windows Platform application for Windows 10, TeamViewer is also supporting new Windows features, including Continuum and Cortana to meet the needs of evolving businesses. 

In addition, TeamViewer and Microsoft Intune are working on an integration – allowing Windows managed PCs to be supported via TeamViewer within the Intune environment. This integration is expected to be available in the first half of 2016. By launching a remote session through the Intune portal, staff can locate end users’ computer information quickly and easily. 

ADM: How can developers use TeamViewer?

Patron: Developers can use TeamViewer by integrating the technology into their already existing applications and systems. The benefit is that users can combine multiple steps and optimize processes by working centrally from a single location and automating process steps. Whether it be an email application, web service or helpdesk system, developers can integrate TeamViewer into their system with our APIs and SDK.

ADM: What is a typical use case of TeamViewer? 

Patron: A typical use case of TeamViewer is utilizing the remote access and videoconferencing tools while employees are traveling for work, working from home or while located in a different office. As many companies are hiring talent from around the globe, many employees now work in different offices. 

By using a tool like TeamViewer, employees can have effective meetings, provide IT help or access documents from their main work computer no matter their location. Companies also use TeamViewer for IT support of their own customers across all devices inside and outside the firewall.

One example is our client cosmetic store LUSH, who uses TeamViewer to allow employees to conduct lengthy evaluations necessary for product placement without physically being there – saving time and money. Employees no longer need to travel to the central office to complete these lengthy tasks, they can do it from the comfort of their own home. It’s a big time and cost saver for the company.

ADM: Are you seeing TeamViewer being used in any innovative ways?

Patron: It is amazing to hear the creative ways our customers are using TeamViewer’s capabilities. One of the most innovative ways I have seen TeamViewer used is by an Italian artist named Davide Coltro. Davide is known for his electronic artwork that is displayed in galleries around the world. Using TeamViewer, Davide is able to easily perform updates and swap files of his artwork from his own computer without being physically in each gallery. Davide can use TeamViewer to remotely connect with his artwork without the viewer ever knowing – changing what is on the screen with artistic updates.  

Another interesting use case for our technology is how it is quickly becoming a critical tool in helping manage augmented reality devices. For example, last year we announced a strategic partnership with Atheer, creators of AiR Glasses, which brings augmented reality to the workplace. The partnership means our solution has been integrated within Atheer's AiR platform to enable remote screen sharing and control, allowing users to share what they are looking at with others, as well as enable remote guidance and training.