Abstract: A method of transacting business in conjunction with the sale of mobile devices is disclosed. The method includes shipping at least a first mobile device to a first end user and at least a second mobile device to a second end user different from the first end use. The first mobile device and the second mobile device generally have the same hardware and software configurations during shipping. At least one server, which is coupled to a network, is maintained with configuration data for a plurality of mobile devices. Upon receipt of the first mobile device and the second mobile device by the first end user and second end user, respectively, the first mobile device and the second mobile device are powered up. Upon being powered up, the first mobile device and the second mobile device each automatically connect to the at least one server via the network.

Abstract: A system and method of securely allocating mobile devices is disclosed. A plurality of mobile devices are stored in an inoperative state under the control of a host computer. A user enters an identification code, which is received by the host computer, and the host computer selectively places a mobile device in an operative state based on the identification code. If the selected mobile device is not returned within a first predetermined interval, then the selected mobile device is placed back in the inoperative state. If the selected mobile device is not returned within a second predetermined interval, then all data within the selected mobile device's memory is purged. Additionally, the plurality of mobile devices can be stored in a secure area. Access to the secure area is granted based on the identification code.