Samsung Bridging The Rugged & Consumer Device Divide

A new generation of rugged devices are merging the functionality, power and price you’ve come to expect from a consumer device with the durability and security you need from rugged handsets.

Why tougher doesn’t need to mean harder:

Rugged devices have been a business staple in many industries for decades. Allowing frontline workers to operate even in the harshest of conditions.

But in that time, they’ve rarely attempted to break out of their niche. They’ve developed a reputation of being specific tools for specific needs. But with durability and security coming at the expense of limited functionality, bulky design – and often an eye-watering price tag.

Meanwhile, some businesses have relied on consumer devices. Instead choosing their superior performance, vaster range of features and faster evolution, at the expense of regular damage and failure.

• But why does there need to be this divide between a rugged and consumer device?
• Why can’t there just be a better choice for businesses?

Whether you’re accustomed to rugged devices or have so far steered clear, it’s time to experience a new age of business mobility. In this paper, we’ll look at how a new generation of rugged devices are merging the functionality, power and price you’ve come to expect from consumer devices with the durability and security you need from rugged handsets. You’ll see how this combination is more than just the sum of its parts—it’s ushering in a frontline revolution as workers become empowered to achieve more than ever before.

Employees that use smartphones to get work done say they gain nearly an hour (58 minutes) of work time each day on average, and see an estimated productivity increase of 34%. (4)

Going Rugged

Whether your employees operate on a construction site or the shop floor, there’s one thing businesses need regardless of their environment: reliability. Standard devices aren’t designed to handle the rigours of these settings and are likely to break quickly due to anything from drops and spills, to dust and dirt.

Meanwhile, rugged devices are specifically built to ensure your employees won’t be let down by their tools when it matters most. And no matter how rugged devices evolve, that core principle will always drive their design.

So, what kind of credentials do rugged devices offer and why should you opt for one over a consumer alternative? Find out more below.

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Consumer V Rugged

Durability

But a consumer device simply isn’t built for the frontline. They’re susceptible to any number of risks that are present in these environments. Screens, cameras and processors can break easily from shock or drops, while dust, dirt and water can damage internal components

Rugged devices are built to an international standard rating of IP6810 and the highest military standard for survivability and endurance, MIL-STD-810G.11 That means they can withstand anything you throw at them, from drops and shocks to dust and dirt, and even submersion up to 1.5m for up to 30 minutes.

Battery

While consumer devices have improved in multiple areas, battery life continues to be a struggle. Battery failure can hinder work, especially on sites where power points aren’t readily available. Meanwhile, charging itself often takes too long, and charging pins and cables can be easily damaged.

Rugged devices are constructed with longevity in mind. Their superior battery life and interchangeable batteries mean workers can continue uninterrupted in the field. Plus, POGO charging docks ensure you avoid broken connections and can enjoy 15% faster charging.

Design

Traditionally, design and style have been consumer devices’ forte. These slimmer machines fit snugly in your hand or pocket and offer unparalleled ease-of-use.

Historically rugged devices have been known for being bulky and awkward. However, the newest generation of devices have broken away from this stereotype. A consumer device like the Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro offer the sleekness and ease-of-use that you’ve come to expect from their consumer alternatives, without sacrificing their standards. And they can be supported with a complete ecosystem of rugged accessories including cases, docks, mounts, chargers and keyboards.

Sensitivity

Traditional touch screens can often be unpredictable in extreme environments. Water can make them unresponsive to the touch and difficult to view, while gloved workers have to remove their safety equipment to engage with their devices.

You won’t experience the same difficulties with rugged devices. Designed to respond to both gloved and wet touch, your workers can keep going without interruption. Meanwhile, high resolution screens ensure all information is clear and users can enjoy an optimal viewing experience regardless of the situation.

Value

Many businesses have opted for consumer devices on the frontline because of their lower price tag, but it’s a risky move. If those devices fail on a regular basis and need replacing, you can quickly find costs beginning to escalate.

While rugged devices were once far more expensive, the price gap between them and consumer devices is closing quickly. However, thanks to their longer life and replaceable batteries,(14) rugged devices prove to be considerably more cost effective in the long run.

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4 – Frost & Sullivan -The Smartphone Productivity Effect

14 – Additional batteries sold separately.