[Corvallis, Ore. and Lidköping, Sweden, September 18, 2012.] Handheld Group, a Swedish manufacturer of rugged mobile computers, today announced the launch of its Nautiz X1 ultra-rugged smartphone. The Nautiz X1 is the toughest smartphone in the world — it's waterproof, dust-proof and shock-resistant — yet it's also lightweight, very slim and smartly designed for both work and play.
“The Nautiz X1 is the toughest smartphone ever built, suitable for both field professionals and outdoor enthusiasts,” says Jerker Hellström, CEO, Handheld Group. "Having manufactured truly rugged mobile computers for many years, ruggedness is in Handheld’s DNA. This is no ordinary smartphone. With the Nautiz X1, we are providing a smartphone that delivers the reliability and sturdiness of an ultra-rugged computer.”
The Nautiz X1's IP67 ingress protection rating means it's completely protected against dust and sand, and can withstand immersion in water. It also meets stringent MIL-STD-810G military standards for enduring humidity, vibration, drops and extreme temperatures.
Probably the lightest, slimmest rugged smartphone on the market, the Nautiz X1 weighs in at a mere 180 grams (6.3 ounces) and measures only 125x65x15 mm (4.9"x2.6"x0.6"). It has a 4-inch WVGA sunlight-readable and damage-resistant capacitive touchscreen.
The full-featured Nautiz X1 runs on a powerful 1 GHz dual-core processor and 512 MB of RAM, and comes with 2 GB of onboard storage. It provides reliable voice and high-speed data transmission over GSM or CDMA networks and connects to 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi networks. It also features Bluetooth, GPS, and a 5-megapixel camera, and comes with the latest Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) or Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 operating system. Different battery options will enable a full day’s work under any condition or environment.
Like all of Handheld’s line-up of rugged PDAs, smartphones and mobile computers, the Nautiz X1 is specifically developed for field workers in industries such as geomatics, logistics, forestry, public transportation, utilities, construction, maintenance, mining, military and security.
But, Hellström adds, “Although our rugged computers are primarily aimed at our traditional business segments, we see an increased demand for truly rugged smartphones among consumers searching for a durable, but still stylish, smartphone. With the Nautiz X1, we can provide a cool, almost indestructible smartphone for both work and play.”
The Nautiz X1 smartphone will be showcased at numerous exhibitions throughout the fall and will be available in January 2013. List price starts at €699/$899. Orders can be placed immediately.