The essentials you need to know about rugged smartphones
Do you work in extreme conditions ? In this case, it is better to have a smartphone that has unparalleled durability and robustness. This is where the rugged smartphone presents itself as the ideal solution to your problem. The question is: what is a so-called 'rugged' smartphone ? To help you understand, this practical guide is offered to you.
The rugged smartphone, what is it?
Today, smartphones are indispensable devices in daily life, both professionally and personally. However, for field workers, our touch phones that we know well are rarely up to standard in terms of durability. This is why the rugged smartphone is frequently mentioned.
Definition
The so-called "rugged" smartphone or durable refers to a type of smartphone that is designed for use in extreme conditions. There are all sorts of names on the market for this type of product, such as shockproof smartphone, all-terrain smartphone, durable smartphone, or even unbreakable smartphone. But, regardless of the term used, they all refer to the same product, namely a phone that has a high level of protection against shocks and drops, as well as a high degree of waterproofing against water and dust. To achieve this, the smartphone is equipped with a reinforced internal and external structure.
Of course, in some cases, this may affect the design of the smartphone, giving it a very compact, solid, rigid, and thick appearance.
The Benefits of Rugged Smartphones
Who has never, at least once in their life, dropped their smartphone on the ground or in water, out of clumsiness or due to inattention. The luckiest can take a deep breath and feel grateful if their smartphone is unscathed. For others, there is nothing left but to curse their bad luck, and depending on the damage, either have it repaired or change their smartphone.
It is to avoid this type of problem that rugged smartphones have emerged. Unlike conventional smartphones that focus on aesthetics and multimedia performance, rugged smartphones prioritize the optimization of physical characteristics. Here, the goal is to provide better protection in case of an accident, thus avoiding a repair or a smartphone replacement.
Beware, better protection does not necessarily mean that it is any less powerful than its mainstream counterparts.
The term "shatterproof smartphone": how credible is it?
Indeed, rugged smartphones are better equipped to withstand shocks, water, and dust. Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that this type of smartphone is not indestructible. No matter the model chosen, a shock-resistant smartphone can be damaged by improper handling. However, by opting for this type of smartphone, you minimize the risks, even in intensive usage.
Who is the unbreakable smartphone for?
Rugged smartphones cater to a broad audience that can be classified into 3 categories: field professionals, the logistics sector, and retail outlets.
The classic smartphone has many useful applications, but unfortunately, it remains a fragile device. However, there are professions that require a communication device capable of withstanding extreme conditions to be used wherever necessary. If your profession requires you to work in harsh conditions, outdoors, or in the field, it makes perfect sense to choose a smartphone that offers better durability, such as a shockproof smartphone. They are suited for use in various sectors and on different terrains. From construction sites to mountains, through the sea, the desert, and factories, these communication tools adapt to all the challenging environments where your job requires you to go.
Of course, you can also find them in the logistics field. For example, it is not uncommon to see a delivery person with a phone equipped with a barcode reader. Often, you are also asked to sign on the device to confirm successful delivery. This is yet another example of the use of this professional equipment.
Finally, and increasingly so, it is found in the POS (Point Of Sale) or retail sector. Indeed, in many shops or restaurants, this tool is an extension of the employees' arms.
What are the features of the shatterproof smartphone?
As mentioned before, rugged smartphones stand out from regular smartphones by their level of durability. But concretely, how can we measure this superior quality? Like all devices on the market, rugged smartphones are subject to quality standards. It is these standards that allow us to verify the level of protection offered.
IP Certification
The IP or Ingress Protection is an international standard that classifies the level of protection of a device against solids (dust) and against water intrusion. The quality is determined by two digits, the first measuring resistance to dust and the second to water. The larger the number, the better the waterproof protection of the smartphone. For rugged smartphones, this standard is IP69. Otherwise, there is the IP69K which is an extension of IP69, with additional tests for resistance to high-pressure water spray and to high temperatures as well as to steam.
MIL-STD Standard
In addition to the IP, rugged smartphones are also subject to the military standard MIL-STD. This is a standard for evaluating the quality of materials used by the American military. It is this standard that defines the resistance of rugged smartphones. In practice, rugged smartphones undergo drop tests, ballistic shock tests, and water resistance tests. Here, the standard for rugged smartphones is MIL-STD 810 G. This means that the smartphone can withstand a fall from a height of 1.80 meters.
Enhanced tailored design
Regardless of the standards, rugged smartphones stand out in terms of the device's aesthetics.
Given the reinforcement work done on the casing, smartphones offer a sturdy design.
This is a more or less constraining concession to have optimal protection.
However, this does not mean that all rugged smartphone designs are unattractive; some models offer original and customized designs.
How to choose a durable smartphone?
To find a smartphone that meets your needs, you must first define those "needs". The needs of a professional are not the same as those of an adventurer or a clumsy person. Once you have defined the needs, you must determine the selection criteria, with the "standards" to be considered first for this type of smartphone. Finally, you choose the model that corresponds to your preferences (price, style, features, etc.).