September 2012

Intermec offers HTML5-capable WebKit-based browser for select rugged Intermec devices
Intermec announced a new HTML5-capable browser, allowing for the development of OS agnostic web apps that can run on iOS, Android and select Intermec rugged mobile computers. The browser, which is based on the widely used WebKit rendering engine, supports apps designed to run either on-line, off-line, or a combination of the two. It comes preloaded on Intermec's CN50, CS40, CN70, CN70e and CK70, and is a free download for the CK3, CK71 and CV41. That means that HTML5 apps that run on smartphones and tablets can also run on these select Intermec rugged devices without changes or rewrites. "With future operating system roadmaps uncertain," the press release suggests this as a good way to go for verticals until the smoke clears. Our take: If this works, it would extend the life of older Windows Mobile based devices by letting them run browser-based apps, probably similar to the iPhone's initial Safari-based apps. [See Intermec press release] -- Posted Tuesday, September 25, 2012 by chb

Rugged handhelds in land survey and conservation: Why BRLC chose Juniper Systems Archer Field PC
When conservation groups resolved to survey habitats along the Bear River in the Great Basin in order to preserve the important wetlands in those dry areas, they needed tough, compact handheld computers that would not break, were easy to use, and would run all day on a battery charge. The Bear River Land Conservancy (BRLC) found that in Juniper Systems' Archer Field PC. [Read about the Bear River riparian area survey project] -- Posted Monday, September 24, 2012 by chb

Handheld launches the Nautiz X1 Ultra-Rugged Smartphone
Handheld Group, a Swedish manufacturer of rugged mobile computers, announced the launch of its Nautiz X1 ultra-rugged smartphone. The 4.9 x 2.6 x 0.6 inch, 6.3 ounce Nautiz X, powered by a 1GHz dual core OMAP 4430 processor, has a 4-inch procap sunlight readable display, a 5mp camera, Bluetooth, WiFi, mobile broadband over both GSM or CDMA networks, and runs either Android 4.0 or Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5. It carries IP67 sealing, can handle 4-foot drops, and will start at US$899. Orders can be placed immediately, the device will be available January 2013. [See description and specs of the Handheld Group Nautiz X1 rugged smartphone] -- Posted Tuesday, September 18, 2012 by chb