Sonim
Sonim XP10 Reaches T-Mobile
Sonim's flagship rugged smartphone, the XP10, is now available in some form from all three major US carriers. It launches today for T-Mobile business customers, after launching first on AT&T and more recently with Verizon. The XP10 supports sub-6 5G on both T-Mobile and AT&T. Like all Sonim phones, it has an ultra-rugged, waterproof design that can be used without a case. The Sonim XP3plus — a rugged flip phone — is also available for all three major US carriers. Sonim has been doing well in the US market, and recently announced plans to expand into more affordable durable phones for consumers. Those phones are expected to reach the market with "two tier-one carriers in North America" in 2024.
Verizon Continues Updating Rugged Lineup with Sonim XP10
Verizon has launched the Sonim XP10, a rugged smartphone with a wide range of features for field workers and "workers in dangerous environments". Just last week, Verizon launched the Kyocera DuraForce Pro 3, a similar but higher-end rugged smartphone. AT&T launched the XP10 in November with sub-6 5G, but the XP10 is launching on Verizon as a 4G device. The XP10 replaces the XP8, with a lighter and sleeker design, larger screen, longer battery life, more memory, and better cameras. Its rugged credentials include MIL-STD-810H ratings for drops (from six feet directly onto concrete), water immersion (in six feet of water for 60 minutes), and all weather conditions (from -4° F to 131° F). The XP10 can also be "sprayed, submerged and rigorously cleaned in soap and water or with harsh chemicals, like isopropyl alcohol or bleach, to ensure it is fully disinfected." For dangerous work environments, the XP10 is rated Non-Incendive Class I, II and III Div 2. Other key features include a removable 5,000 mAh battery, wireless charging, PTT+, extra-loud 100bB+ speakers, fingerprint reader, memory card slot, and NFC. Sonim offers a full suite of accessories, including ultra-rugged headsets, Remote Speaker Microphones (RSM), vehicle kits, and multi-bay chargers. The Sonim XP10 is available for Verizon business customers starting today for $550. For a limited time, Public Sector customers can get the XP10 for free with a 2-year agreement while business customers can get it for $0.99 with a 2-year agreement.
Sonim's Next Ultra-Rugged Smartphone is Almost Here
Sonim today announced the impending launch of their newest rugged smartphone, the XP10. The XP10 replaces the XP8, adding 5G but in a lighter and "sleeker" design. The phone will launch "with major carriers in the coming weeks". Key features include a removable 5,000 mAh battery, extra-loud 100bB+ speakers, and Android 12. Its rugged credentials include MIL-STD-810H ratings for drops (from six feet directly onto concrete), water immersion (in six feet of water for 60 minutes), and all weather conditions (from -4° F to 131° F). The XP10 can also be "sprayed, submerged and rigorously cleaned in soap and water or with harsh chemicals, like isopropyl alcohol or bleach, to ensure it is fully disinfected." For dangerous work environments, the XP10 is rated Non-Incendive Class I, II and III Div 2. Although Sonim did not announce specific carrier partners, both AT&T and Verizon carried the XP8.
Sonim XP5plus Emulates Traditional Two-Way Radios
Sonim has introduced the XP5plus, an update to its XP5s rugged feature phone with PTT (push-to-talk) designed for first responders and other field workers. While the phone has several upgrades, the most unusual is the two large physical knobs on the top, for PTT channel select and volume. This makes the phone physically operate more like the traditional two-way radios it's designed to replace. The knobs allow full control over the PTT features "without users ever taking their eyes off the mission in front of them." A version without the knobs is also available. It also has a "Sonim SecureAudio" accessory connector to ensure that the "wide range of industrial grade accessories including headsets [and] RSMs" available stay attached even during rigorous activity. Its rugged creds include military ratings for ruggedness and IPx9K, which rates it for not only water, but high-pressure steam, pressure washing, and detergents. The XP5plus has a larger display and battery compared to the XP5s. It has extra-loud front-facing speakers, camera, and expandable storage. AT&T is offering the XP5plus starting today for $298. The XP5plus is, of course, compatible with FirstNet, AT&T's exclusive network that offers first responders priority access to band 14.
Sonim Revamps its Rugged Flip Phone
Sonim's newest rugged flip phone is the XP3plus, launching today with T-Mobile. This new model is a significant upgrade over the original XP3 from 2019, featuring larger displays and a battery that's over 50% larger (2,300 vs. 1,500 mAh). It introduces a new button configuration and interface with three soft-keys below the main display. It also adds the unique feature of two soft-keys below the outer display, one of which can be customized to user functions. The processor, memory, and (optional) camera have also been upgraded compared to the XP3. Like all Sonim phones, the XP3plus is ultra-rugged with IP68, military, and Non-Incendive ratings. It also has large, glove-friendly buttons — including dedicated push-to-talk and SOS buttons — and a 100dB+ ultra-loud speaker for noisy environments. Sonim offers a range of accessories for the phone, including vehicle kits, rugged headsets, and charging docks. The company also offers a three-year warranty. T-Mobile is selling the phone for $210. Sonim's web site says the phone will be "available at other carriers in Fall 2021."
Sonim XP3 Launches on AT&T and FirstNet
The Sonim XP3 rugged flip phone is now available on AT&T. The phone supports band 14 and FirstNet, the dedicated part of AT&T's network that gives priority to first responders. It's the first clamshell-style phone available for FirstNet. The XP3 launched a month ago on Sprint. The XP3 has a waterproof body, Push-To-Talk, 1-inch outer display, 3.5mm audio jack, USB-C connector, global roaming, Wi-Fi, mobile hotspot, and barometer. It has a 5-megapixel camera, but is also available without a camera. Its 1,500 mAh battery is removable. Its software is based on Android, but it does not run Android apps.
Sprint Launches Rugged Flip Phone from Sonim
The Sonim XP3 is a new rugged clamshell-style phone for Sprint. The two companies announced the phone today, and it's available now. The phone is rugged to military specs, and waterproof with an IP68 rating. Its large buttons are designed to be glove-friendly. It supports Sprint's Direct Connect Plus PTT (walkie-talkie) service. Its 100 dB speaker with noise cancellation is designed to be extra-loud and clear. The software is based on open-source Android (Oreo) but cannot run Android apps. It has a removable 1,500 mAh battery, 2.6-inch LCD main display, small outer display, and a memory card slot. It comes with a three-year warranty. Sprint is offering it for $240, or $10/month.
Google Adds Rugged Category to Enterprise Recommended Program
Google’s Android Enterprise Recommended program now includes a number of rugged devices. The program, launched earlier this year, requires phones to meet a number of qualifications, such as updates to the core OS and security patches. In order to qualify for the rugged recommendations, devices must meet basic specs for surviving abuse, water submersion, and more. The initial list of devices making the grade includes the Zebra TC25, TC51, TC56, TC70x and TC75x; Honeywell Dolphin CT40, Dolphin CT60 and Dolphin CN80; Sonim XP8; Point Mobile PM45; and the Datalogic Memor 10. Google already recommends a significant number of regular Android devices from BlackBerry, Sony, and others.
Google Expands Enterprise Recommendation Program to More Phones
Google today said more phone makers now part of its Android Enterprise Recommended program. The Android Enterprise Recommended program, which was launched in February of this year, "establishes best practices and common requirements for devices and services, backed by a thorough testing process conducted by Google." In order to qualify, devices have to meet a number of specifications concerning their hardware, deployment, security updates, and user help programs. For example, devices approved must run at least Android 7 Nougat, and receive security updates no later than 90 days from their release from Google. A handful of new phones makers and devices are now recommended by Google, making for a total of 39 devices from nine device makers. New entries include the Sonim XP8; Sharp Aquos SH 10-K; Sony Xperia XZ2 and XZ2 Compact; Motorola Moto G6, Moto G6 Plus, and Z3 Play; Huawei P20 and P20 Pro; BlackBerry KEY2; and HMD Global Nokia 3.1, 5.1, 6, 7 Plus, and 8 Sirocco. Several tablets have been certified for Android Enterprise Recommended, too, including the Huawei M5 8.4 and 10.8. Google says it will continue to update the list of devices recommended for business users as more phone makers commit to the requirements of the Android Enterprise Recommended program.
AT&T-Run FirstNet More Generally Available to First Responders
AT&T today said fire, medical, police, and other first responders now have more access to its FirstNet network. FirstNet has been available for purchase by agencies, but hasn't been directly sold in stores. Beginning today, any verified first responder can walk into one of AT&T's 5,300 retail shops and initiate service with a new device. The retail availability of FirstNet will be a boon to first responders who volunteer and/or aren't issued communications devices by their agency or local government. A fairly wide number of phones are compatible with FirstNet, including the Samsung Galaxy S8, S8 Plus, S8 Active, Note 8, S9, S9 Plus, and J3; Apple iPhone 6/Plus, 6s/Plus, 7/Plus, 8/Plus, and X; LG V35 ThinQ; Motorola Moto G6 Play; Sonim XP5S and XP8; BlackBerry KEYone; and the Nighthawk LTE Mobile Hotspot Router. The public safety network is available nationwide in its own, reserved spectrum (Band 14). First responders may also sign up for FirstNet service using AT&T's web site.
Best Certified Phones for Verizon Wireless
Have your eye on a shiny new phone, but it isn't sold by Verizon Wireless? Did you know that Big Red allows you to bring your own device to its network? There are a few things you need to know, though.
AT&T Now Selling the Rugged Sonim XP8 and XP5s
AT&T recently added the Sonim XP8 and XP5s to its roster of rugged phones. Both devices are intended to be used by FirstNet customers (first responders), though they are also available for consumers to purchase. Each meets mil-spec 810G for protection from abuses such as drops, impacts, temperature extremes, and vibration. They also offer IP68 protection from water and dust. Other shared features include dedicated push-to-tak buttons and compatibility with AT&T/FirstNet's e-PTT service. The phones support microSD memory cards for expanded storage.
- XP8: This Android smartphone has a 5-inch full HD display and a Snapdragon 630 processor with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage. It includes a 12-megapixel main camera and an 8-megapixel user-facing camera. A 4,900mAh battery delivers up to 30 hours of talk time and a 100dB speakerphone ensures that calls can be heard in even the noisiest spaces. Other features include dual-band WiFi, NFC, Bluetooth 5.0, and a bevy of internal sensors. It runs Android 7 Nougat. The Sonim XP8 sells for $699, or $23.34 per month for 30 months. Orders placed online now will ship in early May.
- XP5s: This bar-style feature phone has a 2.64-inch screen with 320 by 432 pixels. It is powered by a Snapdragon 427 processor with 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage. It has a 5-megapixel camera, 3,180mAh battery, Bluetooth 4.3, dual-band WiFi, as well as apps including email, media player, and a browser. The Sonim XP5s costs $339. Orders placed online will ship within a week.
Verizon Selling the Ultra-Rugged Sonim XP5
Verizon Wireless today added the Sonim XP5 to its roster of rugged handsets. The XP5 is a bar-style feature phone that includes push-to-talk service (with a dedicated PTT button) for the working set. It meets mil-spec ratings for protection against physical abuse and carries an IP69 rating for protection against water, including jet sprays. Sonim says the phone can sit in 6.5 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. The phone has a 2.5-inch QVGA screen with a proprietary operating system. Other features include a 5-megapixel camera, extra-loud 104dB front speakers, a 1.2 GHz Qualcomm processor with 1 GB of RAM and 4 GB of storage, and support for HD Voice. The Sonim XP5 is available from Verizon Wireless for $336, or $14 per month on a payment plan.
AT&T to Sell Sonim XP5 Rugged Feature Phone
AT&T today announced plans to soon sell the Sonim XP5. The XP5 is a fully ruggedized feature phone that carries an IP68 rating for protection against liquid and dust ingress, and a mil-spec 810G rating for protection against drops and other physical abuses. The Sonim XP5 has WiFi and LTE 4G, and is compatible with AT&T's enhanced PTT service. The device has a 3,180mAh battery, which is unusually large for a feature phone, and a speakerphone that creates 104dB of output for overcoming noisy work environments. AT&T claims the screen can easily be read outdoors under sunny skies. AT&T said more details, including price and availability, will be disclosed at a later date.
AT&T Offering Push-to-Talk API to Businesses
AT&T today announced a slew of improvements to its enhanced PTT service. Most notably, AT&T has released an API that will let developers add PTT communications directly to their business's dispatch operations. Other new features included in EPTT are: Talk Group Scanning, so managers can prioritize group chats; Broadcast Calling, so businesses can make announcements to 500 people at once; Sonim Channel Select, which lets owners of the Sonim XP6 and XP7 easily change talk groups; and FIPS certification for secured government use. AT&T's EPTT suite is available to businesses and is compatible with most Android handsets.
Gloves-On with the Sonim XP7 & XP6 for AT&T
Sonim is hitting its stride in its quest to make the best rugged phones for demanding industries. The XP6 and XP7 are the company's best efforts to date, and represent much more than just two phones, with support for a whole ecosystem of software and specialized accessories. We check them out in our hands-on.
AT&T to Sell Sonim's Rugged XP6
AT&T today announced the immediate availability of the Sonim XP6. The XP6 is a highly rugged Android smartphone that includes buttons and controls like a feature phone. It is certified to mil-spec 810G for protection against drops, vibration, temperature extremes, and humidity. The IP68 rating means it is protected again water and dust intrusion, as well. The XP6 is compatible with AT&T's enhanced PTT service, and has an extremely loud speaker at 103dB. The phone has a 2.64-inch display with 320 x 424 pixels. It runs Android 4.4 KitKat. Specs include a 1.2GHz quad-core Snapdragon 400 processor with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage; 5-megapixel camera with 720p HD video capture; an extra large 4,820mAh battery; and Bluetooth, GPS, LTE, and WiFi radios. AT&T is selling the Sonim XP6 through its business sales channels. The Sonim XP6 is available for $0 down at $17.50 per month on AT&T Next 24; $21.88 on AT&T Next 18; $26.25 on AT&T Next 12; $149.99 with a standard two-year contract; or $524.99 with no commitment. Business and government customers can buy the XP6 for $100 with a two-year contract as long as they also sign up for EPTT service.
Sprint Intros Intrinsically Safe Phone
Sprint has started selling an intrinsically safe (IS) version of it Sonim XP Strike rugged Direct Connect phone. IS devices are designed for environments with flammable gasses or dust. Such devices have extra protections to ensure that - even in the event of a component failure - the device cannot be a source of ignition. IS devices are required in places that handle large amounts of fuel, mines, and even some large bakeries. The last IS phone offered by Sprint was the Motorola i365IS, an iDEN phone introduced in 2008 and discontinued in June 2012. The Sonim XP Strike IS has a special IS battery that protrudes from the back, making the phone 1.2" thick. The battery and other IS changes also bump the price up to $600 on contract. The XP Strike IS is available now.
Sprint Strikes First, Strikes Hard with Rugged Sonim Phone
Sprint today announced the Sonim XP Strike, a ruggedized handset that's compatible with its push-to-talk service. The Strike is the first Sonim handset to be sold by Sprint. It is a mil-spec 810G rated monoblock device that can withstand 6-foot drops to concrete, as well as a 30-minute bath in water that's two meters deep. It can withstand blowing rain, salt fog, vibration, shock, and dust. Other features include a 2-megapixel camera with flash, Bluetooth, FM radio receiver, GPS, and support for microSD cards. It runs all of Sprint's DirectConnect services. The Sonim XP Strike is available through most Sprint sales channels beginning today for $129.99 after rebate with a new agreement.
Samsung Rugby III and Sonim Bolt First to Include Enhanced PTT
AT&T today announced the Samsung Rugby III and the Sonim XP5560 Bolt are the first two devices to ship with its Enhanced Push-To-Talk service on board.
- Rugby III: This ruggedized flip phone is built to mil-spec 810G for protection from water and dust ingress, as well as from shock. It includes a 2.4-inch QVGA display and a 3 megapixel camera. It is free with a new two-year PTT contract.
- Bolt: The Bolt is an ultra-rugged phone built to endure the toughest environments. It is a bar-style device that can withstand six-foot drops to concrete and submersion in water for up to 30 minutes. It is being sold for $199 with new PTT contracts.
AT&T Kicks Off Enhanced PTT Offering
AT&T today announced the availability of its Enhanced Push-To-Talk service, an update that adds a wide range of new features to its PTT offering. According to AT&T, Enhanced PTT works on 3G and LTE 4G networks and boasts faster call set-up times, presence indicators, and the ability to run on a wide range of smartphones and feature phones. The improved service also adds a bevy of business-friendly tools, such as integration with enterprise applications, supervisor override capabilities for important communiques, and support for large contact databases and large groups (1000 and 250, respectively). The service is launching on the Samsung Rugby III and the Sonim XP5560 BOLT. It is also being made available as an application to devices such as the Samsung Galaxy Rugby Pro, the RIM BlackBerry Curve 9360 and Bold 9900.
Sonim XP3 Tough Phone U.S. Bound
Several rural carriers will be making the rugged Sonim XP3 phone available in the U.S. in early 2009. The XP3 is fully ruggedized to withstand abuse. It can stand 6-ft falls onto concrete, it is waterproof and it is resistant to dust and other particles. It has 2.5 days of talktime and 2 months of standby time. It will have quad-band GSM/EDGE radios, GPS, and Bluetooth. It has a 3 megapixel camera, but no video recording and no media player. Pricing details were not provided, nor were the identities of the U.S. carriers to offer the XP3 made known.
