Your Trusted Partner for Custom Enterprise Device Design

A rugged smartphone is a device that is specifically designed to withstand harsh conditions and rough use. These types of smartphones typically have reinforced casings, water and dust resistance, and are built to military standards.

First off, rugged phones and standard phones are really similar in a lot of ways. Internally, they’re functionally identical to regular smartphones. Most typically run the Android operating system (at least until Apple releases its own line of iOS rugged smartphones, or Windows Mobile makes a comeback), they have decent front and rear cameras. They run on classic mobile CPUs, too, typically from MediaTek and Qualcomm. You’ll also often see both rugged and regular phones protect screens with Gorilla Glass or similar.
The difference between a rugged phone and a regular phone is the outer-build. The very best rugged smartphones have reinforced casings and strength and IP ratings, which can ensure a device is protected from shocks, drops, falls, water, and dust. You may also see a phone labeled as being tested against MIL-STD 810 standards, which is a set of tests under extreme conditions, as used by the US military. That does not necessarily mean the tablet is fit for combat, though – just good for rugged outdoor and enterprise use.

These devices are specifically built to withstand harsh conditions, hostile environments, and rough use when out in the field. For these reasons, they also tend to have a longer battery life and are more durable than regular phones – even one with a strong protective case.

This is a popular question. And the answer entirely depends on your use case and requirement. Typical reasons for doing a custom device build are,

Removal of consumer market features. This may be counter intuitive, but end users value features and qualities best suited for business use without additional bloat.
Bespoke and custom features clearly not available in consumer devices. Common ones are contacts along the long edge for data transfer and charging on docks, special connectors, special sensors, or simply a MIL-STD spec without the additional size handicap of an accessory.
Commitment to multi-year availability.
Having said this, our practice designs mobile device accessories as well

Typically most custom device programs start from an existing device or platform. That is the only limitation. Some of the features we have been asked to integrate or have come across in the competition, includes

1. Laser rangefinder
2. Thermal Camera (FLIR)
3. Larger Battery Receptacle for medical probes (no really)
4. Emergency/ SOS buttons
5. 1000 Lumen light
6. Powerful camping light
7. Physical keyboard attachment
8. Proprietary or other connectors (Ethernet in tablets for example)

It really depends on just these two:
1. Novel features: If it is for user experience (looks, ergonomics, button response, or ruggedness, you can get a prototype in a few weeks. If it involves the integration of a new sensor, and custom firmware to be written for it, it will typically take several months.
2. Responsibility Assignment in the program. Your ODM may prefer to take on certain activities themselves, but may not be as fast.

Yes, of course. While there is no warranty on our services,
We follow a robust process to ensure that the deliverable matches the requirement, even for a never-tried-before-feature.
As long as you are a subscriber, your program will benefit from us implementing unlimited changes to improve your business outcomes

This is typically a contract you sign with the factory. You should expect
Dedicated Support Team: An experienced team provides prompt technical assistance via phone, email, and remote support to address any issues or questions you may have.
Warranty Coverage: ask for comprehensive warranties on your devices, covering manufacturing defects and ensuring peace of mind.
Repair and Maintenance: check for relationships with third party service centers that provide efficient repair services, minimizing device downtime.
Software Updates: You should expect software updates and enhancements to optimize device performance and security.