# Jamf Nation User Conference 2024: Major Updates and Innovations
Today marks the kickoff of the 15th annual Jamf Nation User Conference (JNUC) in Nashville, where Jamf, a frontrunner in Apple device administration, is ready to reveal its newest innovations. Accompanied by key partners, including Apple, Jamf intends to demonstrate how its management and security solutions can integrate seamlessly to enhance user experience while instilling organizational trust. Here’s a closer examination of the key announcements made during JNUC 2024.
## The Changing Function of Apple Administrators
John Strosahl, Jamf’s CEO, stressed the growing intricacy of the Apple administrator’s role amidst today’s hybrid and remote work settings. “The responsibilities of an Apple admin have only become more intricate,” he pointed out, underlining Jamf’s dedication to delivering comprehensive solutions that enable administrators to thrive in their positions. The announcements this year are aimed at streamlining management and security protocols, simplifying the path to success for organizations utilizing Apple technology.
## Updates to Declarative Device Management
One notable advance revealed at JNUC 2024 is the improvement of Declarative Device Management. This method makes policy enforcement simpler, setting the stage for a more secure and effective future. Jamf has broadened its support for declarative workflows, now introducing a new feature named Blueprints. Initially launched for Jamf Now a decade ago, Blueprints are now incorporated into Jamf Pro and Jamf School, facilitating the management of device settings, commands, app installations, and restrictions in a declarative way. This framework allows Jamf to offer same-day support for Apple’s newest features, enabling organizations to quickly adapt to emerging technologies.
## Self Service+: A Cohesive Platform
Jamf has redefined its Self Service app with the introduction of Self Service+, a cohesive platform that merges essential functionalities into a single application portal. This revamped interface not only presents a curated assortment of company-branded apps and content but also integrates vital security notifications from Jamf Protect. By unifying alerts and tools, Self Service+ boosts productivity and fosters confidence among users, negating the need for switching between multiple applications.
## Compliance Benchmarks in Jamf Pro
To enhance security management, Jamf announced the rollout of Compliance Benchmarks in Jamf Pro. This feature utilizes the macOS Security Compliance Project and Jamf Compliance Editor to streamline the tasks of constructing, managing, auditing, and reporting compliance with CIS benchmarks. Initially offered for macOS, this feature will soon be available for iOS and iPadOS, providing Apple administrators with the necessary tools to spearhead effective security initiatives throughout their device ecosystems.
## AI Assistant: A 24/7 Specialist
Building on last year’s concept for AI-driven solutions, Jamf launched the AI Assistant, a natural language interface designed to aid information management and decision-making. This robust tool employs retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) to assess and deliver pertinent insights, effectively functioning as a 24/7 Jamf expert. The AI Assistant will be rolled out in beta soon, with full capabilities anticipated by early 2025. It aims to interpret security alerts, contextualize their severity, recommend subsequent actions, and facilitate direct responses while keeping administrators in the loop.
## Supporting Safe Learning Environments
Jamf’s dedication to education is clear in its service to 42 million students across more than 40,000 educational institutions globally. The introduction of Time-Based Policies in Jamf Safe Internet improves the platform’s capacity to safeguard devices at home while customizing settings for broader applications. Moreover, the launch of Blueprints in Jamf School empowers administrators to manage software updates declaratively, scheduling them at optimal times for students.
## Conclusion
The announcements made at the Jamf Nation User Conference 2024 signify Jamf’s commitment to enhancing the management and security of Apple devices in both business and educational environments. With innovations such as Declarative Device Management, Self Service+, Compliance Benchmarks, and the AI Assistant, Jamf is well-positioned to empower Apple administrators and enhance user experiences across the board. For those interested in watching the keynote livestreams and learning more about these thrilling developments, you can find them [here](https://reg.jnuc.jamf.com/flow/jamf/jnuc2024/keynote/login).
