Can you be more specific about the device models ,Android versions and method of enrollment (eg. Android+ with DA vs. Android Enterprise with DO)? You can deploy Android OS Updates to Zebra Android devices relatively easily through MobiControl as there is built in scripting functionality for executing the updates. 

Also, are you sure that it is the OS version that is preventing Remote Control from working?

If you enable the automatic update firmware option in the device's Settings for most Android/Android+ devices, the manufacturer's update server will be checked regularly for firmware update, provided you haven't blocked OS-Update in feature control  for Android+ platform. 

If such option in Settings has not been enabled, there is in general no way to force firmware update except for the following cases :

1. Zebra devices as mentioned by Matt

2. Samsung devices supporting E-FOTA (and with MobiControl server version 14.1.5.1284 or above)

3. For Android Enterprise devices in device-owner mode, you can use MobiControl script command "set_system_update_policy" with the proper option to control firmware update.  See MobiControl on-line document (https://www.soti.net/mc/help/v13/en/default.htm#ScriptCmdSet.htm?Highlight=set_system_update_policy)

Thank you very much Matt and Raymond for the information, it has been very helpful.

Matt, please confirm what would be the procedure for Zebra devices ?

Create a package that delivers the .Zip file to the /sdcard and then have a post-install script execute that update with the install_system_update script. 

Thank you Matt 

You could use the app "OS Manager". It's specifically designed to automatically upgrade OS on Zebra Android devices. It basically replicates the user experience you have on Samsung and iPhone.

I've been through the process of upgrading OS and LifeGuard on Zebra Android devices many times, especially for devices being used in retail. The biggest issues I've seen are offline devices, devices with a low state of charge, devices in use, devices with low WiFi-coverage, distributing information to all users, etc.

So what OS Manager does, it automate the whole process. Users are asked if they want to install now or later. Pressing install now will install the update right away, install later will install the update around 11:30 PM. OS Manager have all kinds of safe guards, including checking state of charge, update-file integrity etc. You can also apply several updates at the same time if needed.

More information is also available on SOTI Marketplace.

I am sorta running into the same thing as you Fabian.

However, I do have updates allowed but since it is in Kiosk mode the user will only see the alert at the top. Now I have some users that know they can swipe down and install the update. I have others that are just well, do not understand directions. (even some with PPT and arrows pointing)

I wanted to use E-FOTA so i didn't have to worry about all this, but VZW said not in the US. (I believe it is because they have their own service and want the $$$)

So right now I am stuck as well until I can get all users on-board.