Motorola Solutions unveiled its enterprise-focused TC55 touch computer at an event in Sandton yesterday.
Speaking at the unveiling, Andy McBain, senior product manager for EMEA, said that, when selecting a mobile device, there are three options to choose from - consumer devices, bring your own device offerings and enterprise devices.
He believes the TC55 merges the features of an enterprise-class mobile computer with the functionality of a consumer device. Described as "rugged", the idea was to take the usability of a phone and equip it to function in harsher environments while being shared by multiple users, said McBain.
The touch computer is designed for field service, merchandising and direct store delivery (DSD) markets, according to McBain, and features an advanced capacitive 4.3-inch high-resolution touch-screen, which can be used with a stylus or with a bare or gloved finger.
The device also has built-in data-capturing features, said McBain, including an 8MP camera that assists mobile workers to capture bar codes, signatures, documents, photos and videos. "A key feature of the camera is that it auto-calibrates. If this device is going to be used for several years, you want the images to be as good as they were on day one, after a few years."
To be functional in tough environments, the speakers on the TC55 are front-facing, which enhances sound, and it also offers dual microphones with noise-cancelling technology, he added.
While the TC55 runs on Android Jelly Bean, it includes Motorola Solutions' own Extensions (Mx) security features and the fourth generation of the brand's RhoMobile Suite, which allows for cross-platform development.
"One of the problems with using consumer devices as business tools is security. It is important to be able to segregate personal from business. Having any possible vulnerability when dealing with your corporate data is a risk that businesses cannot afford to take," noted McBain.
"With Mx, businesses can feel confident that these Android devices are secure, manageable and enterprise-ready," added Carlos Ferraz, GM for enterprise at Motorola Solutions Africa.
According to McBain, while the life cycle of a consumer device is measured in months, the life cycle of an enterprise device needs to span years. The TC55 was built to have a longer lifespan than conventional consumer devices, only needing replacement every three to six years. And the standard 2940 mAh, or extended 4410 mAh battery, should last for the worker's entire shift, he pointed out, which boosts productivity.
"If you talk to most businesses today, mobility is one of the top things they are thinking about," concluded Ferraz. "This kind of product optimises process and aids work functions. It is our response to this complex mobile landscape in that it combines a consumer feel with enterprise-class security, performance and functionality."
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