Android users will now be able to separate their work and personal lives to an unprecedented degree thanks to the official release of the "Android for Work" platform.

Although it's been in the works for a while, Google officially launched Android for Work Wednesday, citing that over one billion people around the world use Android today. It's important to note, however, that Android 5.0 Lollipop is required to access the full range of features.

"Together with a wide range of management, application and device makers, we believe the Android for Work program provides businesses and workers with the choice and flexibility they need to get things done at work," wrote Rajen Sheth, director of Product Management, Android and Chrome for Work in a company blog post.

The Android for Work platform is centered around four key components. First off are work profiles. Android for Work allows for the creation of a work profile with enhanced encryption and SELinux security enforcement so that employers will not have any access to personal data that they can view or erase. Second is an Android for Work app. The app applies to devices running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich through Android 4.4 KitKAt or for those that cannot run work profiles natively. The Android for Work app can be managed by IT and used for "secure mail, calendar, contacts, documents, browsing and access to approved work apps."

Google has also developed Google Play for Work, which allows for employers and IT to easily distribute apps across their Android for Work community. And last but not least, there are more built-in productivity tools to deal with emails, contacts, calendars, and document editing.

Android for Work also launched with the support of major companies in the key areas of management, devices, applications, and networking. Heavy hitters like Samsung, HTC, Dell, SAP, Sony, Lenovo, LG, and Motorola are all on board providing various Android for Work-related services, and even BlackBerry has pitched in to offer management services.

Given the surge of the "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) movement, Android for Work comes at a crucial time when more employees than ever are finding themselves using the same phone or tablet for personal and work-related errands. Recent hackings have also shed light on the importance of cybersecurity, and Android for Work promises to take the mobile enterprise experience to a newer, safer level.

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