Panasonic will launch a new a rugged Android-based phone, the Toughpad FZ-N1. Based on Android 5.1.1 Lollipop, this 4.7-inch phone is being announced as part of the company's Mobile World Congress plans.
The Toughpad FZ-N1 will have an unnnamed 2.3Ghz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, along with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of on-board storage. However, Panasonic has made this smartphone, along with the Windows 10 Mobile-based Toughpad FZ-F1, for enterprise customers who demand that their devices stand up to a lot of abuse:
The slim and lightweight Toughpad FZ-F1 and FZ-N1 feature a drop rating of 6' and have also passed a torturous tumble test that saw the devices endure 2,000 consecutive 3.3' drops – so they can stand up to the abuse of the most demanding enterprise and government usage environments. The devices are fully sealed against dust and are also submersible, in up to 3.3' of water for 30 minutes, meeting IP65 and IP67 certification requirements. Its ruggedized glass screen ensures the high level of display reliability and durability.""The new Toughpad handheld tablets can operate beyond a typical 8-hour work shift on the standard, field replaceable battery, and with an optional extended life battery it can go well beyond two full work shifts. For times when a battery change is necessary during work hours, it can be accomplished while keeping the device operational. And when more power is needed, the quick charge capability delivers extended use after a one hour charge, with a full charge averaging only two hours."
The Panasonic FZ-N1 will go on sale this March in a Wi-Fi version for $1,499, with a voice-based version due later this summer for a currently unknown price tag.
