Tech Update: Innovation Continues To Improve Rugged Handhelds

By Pedro Pereira, Field Technologies magazine

Rugged handhelds have become a must-have for field workers who use them in remote, even harsh, conditions. In the coming year, innovation and the proliferation of device types and platforms will give users even greater levels of flexibility and functionality.

"Devices are becoming more modular, with individual units gaining more functionality," says Dave Peddemors, vice president of North America Sales at rugged handheld maker Psion Teklogix. Consumer technology, such as the Apple iPad and the Android operation system, has also helped drive innovation. "The consumer advancements will impact rugged handhelds, and the market will see different device types and shapes, bigger displays and wearable components," says John Florio, product manager at Juniper Systems.