Africa Mobile Network Surpasses 5000 Base Stations Transforming Connectivity Across Sub-Saharan Africa

Africa Mobile Networks (AMN) has achieved a significant infrastructure milestone, surpassing 5000 base stations and providing critical connectivity to more than 15 million people across Sub-Saharan Africa. 

The network’s advanced architecture now supports approximately 11.2 million billable voice minutes every day, further accelerating the digital transformation of the region. 

By deploying advanced RAN technology where traditional coverage once ended, AMN are proving that distance is no longer a barrier to digital inclusion, integrating communities without mobile network service into the global digital economy.

Sub-Saharan Africa represents a market of approximately 1.1 billion people, nearly one-seventh of the global population, with 62% residing in rural areas. Today, over 300 million people across the region live in villages with no mobile network coverage.

By surpassing 5000 deployed base stations, AMN is bridging this gap. AMN deploys its proprietary Radio Node (ARN) on all new installations, a versatile 2G/3G/4G small cell solution engineered to deliver 4TRX alongside HSPA+ within a single frequency band. Centred around AMN’s own future-proof, wideband Software Defined Radio (SDR) design, the ARN900 utilises open interfaces and a strategic disaggregation of hardware and software to provide opportunities for continued development.

AMN has deployed ARN900 to existing sites to provide significantly increased voice capacity and data services. By maintaining full ownership and control of the hardware, developed specifically for rural deployment and assembled in-house within the UK, the company ensures unparalleled operational agility and network security. AMN is currently deploying its first dual-band ARN, offering increased 2G and 4G resources across two frequency bands from a single unit.

A core differentiator of the AMN infrastructure is its total operational independence. By integrating high-efficiency solar power with VSAT backhaul, the system is truly ubiquitous, engineered for rapid installation in regions beyond the reach of conventional power grids or terrestrial network infrastructure. This self-sustaining architecture allows AMN to profitably deliver mobile connectivity to any global community exceeding 1,000 residents, effectively overcoming the geographical barriers to digital inclusion.

“I’m immensely proud of the momentum our team has maintained since our inception. Their commitment to overcoming complex infrastructure challenges is what drives our progress everyday”. commented Michael Darcy, CEO of AMN told That's Technolongy.

“We are driven by the conviction that no community should be sidelined by geography. Our ‘zero exclusion’ is powered by our ARN, by maintaining total in-house architectural control, we possess the unique agility to connect Africa, one community at a time”.

Surmounting the 5000-station milestone proves rural connectivity is achievable at scale, sustainably, and with profound social impact. While these achievements are measured in infrastructure, AMN’s true success lies in the human opportunities unlocked; each site serves as a digital anchor that stimulates local economies and fosters global digital participation. W

ith a strategic target of 10,000 sites, AMN is building the foundation to bring life-changing connectivity to millions, reinforcing its commitment to a fully connected Africa. 

A comprehensive survey involving 37 villages across Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire and Zambia revealed a transformative shift in quality of life following the deployment of AMN’s infrastructure. On average across surveyed sites, 83% of residents in these previously unconnected communities have adopted mobile money services, representing a massive increase in regional financial inclusion.

AMN plans to deploy an additional 1,000 sites across Sub-Saharan Africa in 2026, expanding its networks in Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire, and Liberia.

Guided by a focus on technological agility and operational excellence, AMN is bridging the digital divide, ensuring that Sub-Saharan Africa does not just join the digital world, but leads its own digital conversation.

For more information about Africa Mobile Networks and its rural connectivity projects, please visit amn.com. 

Top Budget Smartphones of 2024: Affordable Tech Without Compromise

Buying smartphones for your kids needn't cost the earth

In a world where flagship smartphones often come with hefty price tags, finding a budget-friendly alternative that doesn't skimp on performance can feel like a bit of a challenge. 

However, 2024 has brought a wave of impressive budget smartphones that deliver remarkable value for their price. Here’s a look at some of the best budget smartphones you can get your hands on this year, without breaking the bank.

1. Google Pixel 6a

Google’s Pixel line has been renowned for its excellent camera performance, and the Pixel 6a is no exception. Priced significantly lower than its premium siblings, the 6a boasts a 12.2 MP dual-pixel camera, a 6.1-inch OLED display, and the powerful Google Tensor chip. This combination ensures smooth performance, exceptional photography, and timely software updates directly from Google.

2. Samsung Galaxy A54

Samsung’s A-series continues to impress, and the Galaxy A54 is a standout model. It features a vibrant 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, making it perfect for streaming and gaming. The phone is powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset, coupled with up to 6GB of RAM, ensuring snappy performance. Additionally, its versatile camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, makes it a solid choice for photography enthusiasts.

3. OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite

OnePlus has built a reputation for offering high-quality devices at competitive prices, and the Nord CE 3 Lite continues this tradition. With a 6.43-inch Fluid AMOLED display, Snapdragon 695 processor, and a 64MP triple camera system, it offers a balanced mix of performance and aesthetics. The OxygenOS experience adds a clean, intuitive interface that enhances usability.

4. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12

Xiaomi’s Redmi series is synonymous with affordability and quality, and the Redmi Note 12 is no different. It sports a 6.67-inch Full HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor, and a massive 5000mAh battery. The quad-camera setup, led by a 50MP main sensor, ensures you can capture stunning photos in various conditions.

5. Moto G Power (2024)

For those prioritising battery life, the Moto G Power (2024) is a top contender. It features a colossal 6000mAh battery that can easily last two days on a single charge. The phone is equipped with a 6.5-inch HD+ display, a MediaTek Helio G85 processor, and a triple-camera system. Motorola’s near-stock Android experience ensures a clean and responsive user interface.

6. Realme 10 Pro

Realme has made significant strides in the budget segment, and the Realme 10 Pro is a testament to this progress. It offers a 6.6-inch IPS LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate, a Dimensity 900 chipset, and a 108MP primary camera. The phone's design is sleek and modern, and it supports fast charging, making it a great all-rounder for budget-conscious buyers.

7. Nokia G50

Nokia’s return to the smartphone market has been marked by its commitment to simplicity and reliability. The Nokia G50 features a 6.82-inch HD+ display, Snapdragon 480 5G processor, and a 48MP triple-camera system. Its robust build quality and clean Android One software make it a reliable choice for those seeking a straightforward, dependable device.

In 2024, the budget smartphone market is more competitive than ever, offering consumers a plethora of choices that combine performance, design, and affordability. Whether you’re looking for a device with a great camera, long battery life, or smooth performance, there’s a budget-friendly option out there for you. With these top picks, you can enjoy the best of what mobile technology has to offer without making a dent in your wallet.

The New Liquid Glow Smartphone

Acer presents its Liquid Glow smartphone at the 2012 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

Based on the Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich operating system, this smartphone brings the ultimate balance between style, performance and affordability — ideal for today's fun-seeking, social-networking young and not-so-young people.

The Liquid Glow sports a 3.7-inch screen and portrays Acer's signature look with nice curves, chrome details, and a soft-touch casing combined to deliver the perfect size, grip and feel. This new smartphone will be available in a series of trendy colors: Sakura Pink, Alpine White, and Cat's-eye Black. Going a step further, the onscreen display style varies with the external color, making each smartphone a unique fashion statement.

The Liquid Glow brings together the power and the convenience of Ice Cream Sandwich, providing a user-friendly interface along with widgets to easily stay connected, entertained and updated. It also works with the latest voice-input engine from Google, which guarantees a continuous "open microphone" experience and streaming voice recognition.

The smartphone's 5 MP rear camera features an LED flash for low light, as well as panoramic image capture and touch focus. With Android Beam, photos can be shared by a single tap with another NFC powered Android device, without the hassle of launching application or pairing. What's more, Android Beam can also share anything like contacts, favorite apps, music or videos instantaneously through NFC.

Please come and see the new Liquid Glow smartphone at Acer Pod, located inside the Google Android Booth, Hall 8 - 8C25.

The Acer Liquid Glow will be available in early summer 2012.

Visit www.acer-group.com for more information.

Mobile Operators: Are You Keeping Up?

Under its theme “The Switch is On – Are You Keeping Up?” Metaswitch Networks, a leading provider of the software and solutions that power a whole new generation of communications services, will use Mobile World Congress (Barcelona, February 27 – March 1) to show how operators can keep up with the increasing demands of network traffic, standards compliance, competitive threats and customer needs.

“Operators that don’t move quickly to build a suite of applications around subscribers’ mobile phone numbers are going to be eclipsed by the OTT revolution,” said Steve Gleave, vice president of marketing at Metaswitch.

“Metaswitch provides these operators with weapons to seize power in this struggle, equipping them with multimedia telephony solutions that can deliver an immersive communications experience to all of their customers. As these new applications drive more traffic on all networks, Metaswitch’s new breed of session border controllers can also scale to support the non-linear growth of messaging and media.”

Metaswitch’s success in developing innovative applications has been recognized by its finalist nomination in the GSMA Global Mobile Awards, the winners of which are announced on February 28. Thrutu™, Metaswitch’s pioneering mobile content sharing app now available for exclusive licensing by mobile operators, is shortlisted in the “Most Innovative Mobile App” category.

To showcase its suite of solutions for mobile operators, Metaswitch is running a series of live interactive demos at its pavilion on The Avenue (80/81). Also engaging visitors will be soccer ‘keepie-uppie’ Guinness World Record holder Daniel Cutting, performing his repertoire of unique juggling skills hourly.

FACTFILE:
Metaswitch Networks is a leading provider of the software that powers a whole new generation of communications services, and the solutions that fuel the rapid migration to all-IP architectures. Hundreds of network operators worldwide defend, extend and brand their business by building on Metaswitch to deliver a reliable, scalable, and immersive communications experience. For more information, please visit www.metaswitch.com. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Intrexx enables leading system supplier to make SAP data mobile

Initiative results in earnings growth of 250,000 euros for Noelle & Nordhorn

United Planet (www.unitedplanet.com), one of the leading developers of enterprise portal software in Europe, is pleased to announce that its intranet and portal suite, Intrexx has played a pivotal role in a new sales initiative for Noelle & Nordhorn GmbH, a leading system supplier in the West of Germany.

Intrexx enabled the company to create a mobile web application for its SAP ERP system in only four weeks. It provides sales staff and other field workers with real-time access to important customer information via an iPhone when they are out of the office or at an onsite meeting. The mobile SAP application is easy to use and has helped the sales team to be more flexible and responsive in all interactions with new and existing customers. It has helped the sales team to enhance their new business processes, which has resulted in a growth in earnings of more than 250,000 euros in a very short timeframe.

"The system supplies our field staff with precisely the data needed to work efficiently at the customer site. With Intrexx we have created a mobile SAP link which operates at an amazing speed and which is extremely cost-effective", explains Panagiotis Varlangas, Head of IT organisation at Noelle & Nordhorn about the advantages of the new system.

The new mobile solution not only provides quick access to customer contact details, it also provides fast access to the complete range of SAP documents available for each customer. Reports highlighting customer feedback help the sales staff to focus more closely on the requirements and needs of each customer.

"There has been a huge increase in the exchange of information and data between office and field staff, ensuring that all employees have access to the same data records and are able to reference the most current data at all times. The management team has also benefitted from a special management overview capability which allows them to track all customer-related activity (for example, visit plans and reports) carried out by their staff.

More organisations, not less, should allow staff to access corporate IT systems through mobile devices says Version One

A new survey by document management software company, Version One, shows that only 55 per cent of senior management can access corporate IT systems via mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.

Version One surveyed 149 senior professionals, including managing directors, finance directors and IT directors/managers, from a cross-section of UK public, private and third sector organisations.

28 per cent of respondents revealed they are unable to access their corporate IT systems via their mobile devices and 17 per cent stated they “didn’t know” whether they had mobile access to their IT systems or not.

Julian Buck, managing director of Version One, says, “I find it astounding, given the commonplace nature of mobile devices in the workplace and the flexible hours many staff work, almost half of the senior professionals surveyed did not have access to critical IT systems via their mobile devices. More organisations need to harness mobile technologies to enable business on the move.”

A range of business processes can be undertaken using mobile devices, like the approval of purchase orders, supplier invoices and credit limits. In fact, 76 per cent of the survey respondents agreed being able to view and authorise documents ‘on the move’ delivers a distinct advantage.

Of the 45 per cent of respondents who are unable to access their organisations’ IT systems using their mobile devices or “don’t know” whether they can access them or not, only 9 per cent of these were aware of their companies’ plans to enable mobile access to IT systems.

Buck adds, “Enabling secure, mobile access to IT systems at any time and from anywhere delivers efficiency benefits, enhancing productivity. Having to wait for staff to be sat in front of their PCs before they can access corporate systems is an archaic approach which is stifling for business.”

FACTFILE:
Version One Ltd is the author of electronic document management and imaging solutions. These solutions enable the electronic storage, retrieval, management, enhancement and delivery of business documents such as invoices, purchase orders and statements. This 'paperless office' technology is seamlessly integrated into all major ERP and accounting systems and with a typical ROI of less than six months, Version One's solutions are enabling thousands of organisations to cut paper consumption whilst saving dramatic amounts of time and money.www.versionone.co.uk

Version One is an Advanced Computer Software Group plc company.

Mobile VoIP Subscriptions Grow To 29 Million At The End Of 2011

Each year it appears costs continue to rise, whether it be fuel at the pumps or gas and electricity. Therefore consumers here in the UK and across the globe are all looking for new and innovative ways of saving money. The rise of smartphones in fully developed and emerging markets has resulted in new technologies being widely available to the masses, increasing the breadth of offerings available to consumers.

A study by NPD In-Stat has concluded that the number of active mobile Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) subscribers has risen from 9 million users in 2010 to 29 million, at the end of 2011, with the majority of users residing in western Europe. The most significant driving factor is believed to be the increased smartphone penetration across many markets.

A spokesperson from cheap calls provider JustCall stated: “It's great to see the availability of VoIP increasing for mobile users, across the world. For many years consumers have faced large bills when making long distance calls.”

“We at JustCall are devoted to offering the cheapest international calls from anywhere in the UK, from a land line or mobile phone. With a combination of access numbers and VoIP consumers will no longer face extravagant bills.”

The study predicts around 410 million subscribers to the service by 2015. Combined with revenues associated with mobile VoIP usage increasing to over $4 billion in 2015, will surely encourage network providers and many companies to join the market.

So remember, whenever calling loved ones abroad that there are a number of alternatives such as calling cards, VoIP services, including JustCall who are proud to offer cheap international calling rates through access numbers, to over 500 countries from a UK landline, and over 250 countries from a mobile phone. Starting from as little as 1p from a UK landline and 1p from a mobile phone.

Mobile banking risk noted

Following research conducted by IDC Financial Insights, Akamai Technologies Ltd has found a widening gap between IT and business in many UK financial services companies that poses grave operational and security risks for mobile and online services. This widening gap is an unintentional consequence of business decision-makers within financial institutions lobbying for new and enhanced digital services and being stonewalled by IT departments fearful of the growing security threat from mobile malware.

Commissioned by Akamai, the IDC Financial Insights White Paper published today, New Threats Demand Innovative Responses, describes a UK financial services sector still reeling from the aftershocks of the economic crisis. This sector recognises the need to evolve its product and service offerings in order to meet the needs of a customer base which is both increasingly diverse and demanding. Fundamental to this process is enhancing service channels, with a particular emphasis on making improvements to the user experience associated with online and mobile banking. The research advises that security must be integral to this process, as attack sophistication and volume increases.

Rich Bolstridge, Chief Strategist for Financial Services, Akamai, commented: “The proliferation of smart devices and investment in mobile networks have made mobile banking a realistic prospect for financial institutions looking for new ways to connect to customers and deliver services. Having invested in the front-end of online and mobile banking, however, institutions need to review how they protect themselves and their customers from the ever-present threat of fraudulent activity posed by increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks, and perhaps most significantly, from a proliferation of mobile malware.”

According to IDC, increasingly complex threats that coordinate desktop and mobile malware attacks to intercept user-sensitive authentication data, are beginning to emerge. This is in line with the findings of Akamai’s latest State of the Internet report published in October 2011, which pinpointed the growing malware threat in the UK. It showed the largest quarterly increase (nearly 80%) in observed attack traffic from known mobile network providers.

Alex Kwiatkowski, Research Manager, EMEA Banking at IDC Financial Insights emphasised: “Mobile is a huge opportunity that is beginning to be realised this decade after a series of false dawns in the 2000s, with nearly all the UK’s retail banks launching mobile services in the last three years. But the 'enemy' is smart too, relishing this opportunity to attack from new ground.

“Banks are clearly aware of the threat posed by malware, but the extent to which this ‘awareness’ encompasses mobile is something of an unknown quantity. We have previously identified that banks are launching (and enhancing) new digital banking channels without a clearly defined IT strategy or budget from the onset (as such developments are frequently business-led and/or funded). An unfortunate consequence of taking this approach is the widening of the gap which has perennially existed between 'the business' on one side of the divide and IT on the other.”

This gap potentially means that the security implications of mobile may not be adequately addressed at the point of inception, and Akamai calls for institutions to review their business and IT plans to ensure they are more closely aligned.

Bolstridge added: “IT managers want to invest in security, but they are constrained by a lack of budget. Management teams feel they are faced with a brick wall in the form of IT colleagues who are seemingly reluctant to support the push for new digital channels. This gap only serves to magnify the already daunting risk posed by increasing security threats and must be overcome. In an industry where trust is at an all-time low, the failure of any one bank to provide total security for its mobile banking channel would be catastrophic.”

Akamai and IDC believe the following actions should be taken by financial institutions to help avoid unintentionally magnifying the risk:

● The IT security team needs to ensure that security strategies are reflective of business goals and strategic direction where the growth of the digital banking channel is concerned. This requires IT to be involved in the design and development of new products and services from the outset, particularly where newer interaction mechanisms – namely mobile and social – are involved.
● As a priority, banking IT security teams must become more knowledgeable regarding the threats posed by mobile malware. While the likelihood of attack is currently low, IDC Financial Insights believes this situation will change in 2012, as cyber criminals seek ways to exploit vulnerabilities in mobile OSs and develop more sophisticated methods by which to perform fraudulent activities.
● Banks should continue – or in some cases commence – to educate customers as to how they can identify fraudulent attempts to gain access to personal financial data (by means of phishing or smishing attacks). Historic fraud education methods have, in IDC’s opinion, often been found wanting. Interactive training, where banks simulate phishing and smishing attacks to ensure customers know what signs to look out for and how to react offers a better alternative.
● If existing security technology suppliers are lagging behind in the provision of dedicated solutions to improve the robustness of the mobile channel, institutions should consider using specialist niche vendors who solely concentrate on innovations in mobile security.
● The IT department should seek ways to better engage with business-side users in order to obtain executive sponsorship (and budgetary contributions) for initiatives to improve digital banking security. Conversely, business-side users should not get ahead of their skis and consider launching new services or applications before they have been adequately assessed and signed-off by IT security.
● Innovations in digital banking can still occur, provided they are underpinned by suitably innovative security solutions.
● With an increasing number of attacks expected through both PC and mobile devices, banks should plan their survival strategies accordingly. Ultimately it is far better to be over-prepared rather than woefully ill-equipped to deal with the consequences.

A full copy of the IDC report can be downloaded at: http://www.akamai.com/dl/whitepapers/IDC_Financial_Insights_...

Collinson Latitude Calls For Mobile Operators To Anticipate Customers’ Needs And Offer Real Value

London, January 12, 2012: Collinson Latitude, a global provider of incremental revenue, membership and loyalty products, is calling on mobile operators to capitalise on their customer data insights by delivering reward programmes that better anticipate customer needs.

Collinson Latitude director Janet Titterton says: “Mobile operators are aware of the opportunity to build stronger relationships with their customers by undertaking effective customer segmentation – as many conferences will inform us with topics focusing on the need to develop increasingly informative insights into customer lifestyles.

"But there is little evidence that they are actively pursuing relationship management strategies that make each of us feel that they know and value us. With initiatives like O2 Priority Moments, we are starting to see operators harness the huge loyalty potential of mobile platforms; providing offers and benefits when and where customers need them. However, to truly reap the rewards of customer loyalty and engagement, the opportunity for operators is to be relevant and provide their customers with tangible value.”

According to Titterton, the need to move beyond generic offers for all to more personalised benefits is particularly acute for operators: “Mobile operators are facing a watershed in their evolution. Although mobile handsets have become indispensable lifestyle accessories, customers not only value their handsets but also the content provided by third-party companies.

"There is a danger of the underlying mobile connectivity becoming a mere commodity. To minimise customer churn and to access fresh revenue streams from customers, mobile operators need to exploit their data insights to surprise and delight customers with loyalty rewards and offers that are timely, relevant and offer real value.

“The good news is that mobile operators are in a great position to deliver this type of next generation relationship programme,” says Titterton. “Mobile firms have access to many indicators of a customer’s lifestyle – such as where they live and their travel behaviour. With growing penetration of near-field communication (NFC) and contactless payment, the opportunity to track wider buying behavior will be available too. By developing a comprehensive and single customer view through data analysis and insight, operators can deliver targeted benefits that are relevant to the individual and reward loyalty in a unique way.

“But the real excitement comes at the next stage,” Titterton continues. “By analysing reward, offer and benefit redemption behaviour, operators can develop intelligent, personalised and dynamic programmes that anticipate customer needs and wants, based upon previous behaviour. It is this ability to foresee customers’ wishes that makes some online retailers so successful at driving customer profitability. Mobile operators must also follow this path.”

Nigel Chadwick appointed Vice Chairman of Mobile Data Association

• Founder of Stream Communications takes on new role in MDA

• Drive to position MDA to all mobile data centric businesses

Nigel Chadwick, founding director of Stream Communications, has been elected Vice Chairman of the Mobile Data Association (MDA). Previously MDA director responsible for telematics and transportation, Chadwick takes up the role with immediate effect.

“The growth of consumer and business mobile data has been the story of the mobile industry for the last two years, but demand for machine to machine mobile communications will dwarf people’s use of mobile. The MDA should be the focal point for what will be the fastest growing area in mobile.”

Chadwick founded Stream Communications in 2000 to take advantage of the opportunities afforded by machine to machine. The company has been a leading innovator in providing fast, secure and reliable 2G and 3G connectivity between machines and has pioneered portal based SIM management and billing.

Mike Hawkes, Chairman of the MDA, said: “Nigel has been at the forefront of data communications in the past decade and we look forward to his enhanced contribution to the MDA in the future.”

FACTFILE:
Stream is the UK’s most innovative M2M network service provider. The company has provided enhanced mobile network resilience, connectivity and SIM/network management to the M2M sector since 2000.

Stream has consistently innovated services specific to the M2M sector for the past decade. Stream offers multiple network services in the UK and overseas to the M2M sector. ‘Oasys II’ is Stream’s SIM management & billing platform which facilitates on-line management of small and large SIM volumes.

For more information about Stream, please visit www.stream-communications.com or call 0141 333 0068.

1st Touch Meets City Building’s Mobile Technology Needs

City Building (Glasgow), one of Scotland’s largest construction companies, with a turnover in excess of £200m, has chosen 1st Touch mobile software to control, manage and support the activities of its responsive repairs and gas operatives working for over 40 of the company’s housing clients.

Having originally tried another mobile application, City Building was very aware of both the benefits and challenges of successfully implementing an effective mobile solution. However, with the significant potential rewards of choosing the right system going forwards, City Building decided to identify a mobile application that more closely integrated with their bespoke Civica system. This captures and manages all repair activity across the company’s client base. Any such PDA based solution would also need to integrate seamlessly with their appointment scheduling system from OptiTime. After an in-depth tender process City Building chose 1st Touch mobile software which not only met their integration requirements fully but also enabled them to take the development of tailored client solutions in-house.

1st Touch applications can bring significant efficiencies and productivity increases to any application where field based operatives provide services and the company has already won widespread acclaim in the social and local authority housing market. The resilient but flexible system enables programming-free, user-customisable PDA based solutions to be created through its easy to use graphical interface and is specifically designed to simplify handheld form design and data capture. Any type of electronic form can be generated without the need for Business Process Mapping. The system also smartly links the operatives’ PDA to existing back office solutions. In support of this, 1st Touch has also developed high quality integrations with most of the leading housing management systems used by local authority housing organisations, RSLs, Charities and ALMOs. This includes the Civica system in place at City Building.

Says Angela Murphy City Building’s Head of IT, “We undertook a great deal of groundwork to identify the right system to meet our needs. Flexibility and integration with our existing applications are important to us, so 1st Touch scored well there. However, we also needed a solution that would allow us to take development in house. This is an expanding part of our business as it allows us to change the system to accommodate the specific needs of clients.

"Thus with 1st Touch in place, we are able to respond even more rapidly to our customers and therein able to provide even better customer service. In fact we can now give clients real time updates and as the clients themselves have access to the application, they can see the job status themselves at a glance. When you look at the processes now in place, the amount of paperwork and admin are significantly reduced and that is good news for all concerned.”

Robert Dent, Chief Executive of 1st Touch was quick to recognise the high levels of professionalism and customer service excellence at City Building, commenting, “City Building has built a reputation, throughout Scotland, for its commitment to excellence in all aspects of its work and its customer interface.

"One of the key strands of this uncompromising drive to quality is the sector leading standards they apply to customer service and the investment in 1st Touch mobile technology reflects this. We look forward to working closely with them on rolling our technology out to other business areas over time.”

TAAP announces Windows 8 versions of tablet applications

TAAP – the field service software application specialist – plans to offer its technology on tablets running the Windows 8 operating system, when it is released in Autumn next year, and is currently developing on the test platform.

This is in addition to its current offering which encompasses applications for tablets such as the Apple iPad, Motion CL900 and a proliferation of mobile PDAs. TAAP currently supplies clients within the utilities and construction sector with applications which use Microsoft Silverlight technology and operate on the Windows Phone 7 operating system and the Motion CL900 tablet.

Reportedly with two touch keyboards – one which operates in ‘split’ mode so that users can type with their thumbs – the Windows 8 operating system will make it easy for users who type messages or fill in forms whilst walking for example, so they can still hold their mobile device securely.

The new user interface design will allow operators to use touch-screen functionality to navigate and use apps, to use gestures to control how the interface behaves, and to use enhanced internet browser attributes, amongst other features.

In response to customer demand for tablet-based applications, TAAP plans to provide a number of its established applications on the new operating system, including vehicle inspections; data capture; job allocation & scheduling; deliveries; repairs & maintenance.

TAAP is currently offering applications on Windows 6.5 and the Windows Phone 7.5 Metro operating systems, as well as iPad/iPhone. TAAP’s Windows Phone 7 applications, which run on handsets such as the Nokia Lumia 800, the HTC Radar, and the Samsung Omnia W, allow users to navigate through screens using gesture controls to complete job details easily and quickly. The interface is clear and easy to use which assists field service personnel to complete jobs more easily.

TAAP’s applications will also work on devices such as the HTC Titan and the forthcoming iPhone 5 (rumoured), which have larger screens than a traditional mobile phone, but are not quite as large as a tablet.

These particular applications are available through the Microsoft Market Place as well as directly from TAAP, which will enable users to download an application straight to their existing handset and start using it immediately. This means applications such as TAAP Advantage Lite can be used instantly for electronically documenting the delivery of a product or service.

Applications don’t just operate solely using a device – any information captured or sent is saved within a secure web portal which can be configured to display reports in the form of graphs and charts. Customers can easily build their own reports within the system to show management information such as productivity levels or outstanding issues. These ‘back-office’ solutions make use of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 online, for which TAAP is committed to providing off-the-shelf and customised systems.

This functionality will also be available on the new Windows 8 operating system when it is released next year, so clients can look forward to increased flexibility and easy to use monitoring tools.

Steve Higgon, Product Architect commented:  "Windows 8 is an ideal platform for TAAP’s software solutions as they are designed with data collection and information sharing/transfer in mind. Being able to use the same operating system on different devices makes it easier to develop applications that behave the same on tablets, PDAs, and PCs, as users only need to become familiar with the software and not with different operating systems.

"Windows 8 will give users iPad-like performance with the flexibility to use all your office applications on the same device. This means information transfer using TAAP’s software could be even more streamlined than it already is.”

TAAP is a leading provider of software solutions which allow organisations to mobilise their operations using hand held computers.

Tel: +44 (0) 845 230 9787
Email: angela.walker@ontaap.com
Website: www.ontaap.com

Bubble Universe, A Unique Spin On Match-3 Genre, Goes Live For Android

Polish firm Tequila Mobile, developer and publisher of top mobile games including Outlaw Racing 2011 and Fantasy Kingdom Defense, is proud to announce the worldwide release of its free-to-play new take on the match-three puzzle genre for Android smartphones, Bubble Universe with an iOS version scheduled for November.

In Bubble Universe, the player's goal is to gather matching sets of three or more bubbles in the rotating gravity field. An explosion of points results when the spinning laser hits a set of matching bubbles. When things get a bit too hot to handle, it's time to call in the special bubbles or detonators to clear the way for more bubbles, and more points!

"Our game is an explosion of intelligent design and challenging action-puzzle gameplay that literally makes your head spin" says Aleksander Zemke, Games Producer at Tequila Mobile. "It tests your speed, logic and accuracy like no other product currently on the market."

"Bubble Universe is the newest star to shine upon Tequila Planet, our groundbreaking distribution and social interaction platform," adds Lukasz Deszczulka, Tequila Mobile's Executive VP. "While we call it a planet, it's really more of a galaxy, filled with excellent, completely free games and all the features gamers expect, including leaderboards, recommendations and frequent content updates".

Bubble Universe is available right now, worldwide, from the Android Marketplace. iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad versions are expected to follow in November.

Download Link: http://bit.ly/bubbleandroid

About Tequila Mobile: Tequila Mobile is a mobile games services provider, developer and publisher of award-winning games designed for mobile phones, smartphones and portable devices. In 2009 Tequila Mobile adopted a freemium and micro-transaction-based business model, delivered globally through its proprietary Tequila Planet platform. This cutting-edge platform supports over 2,000 mobile handsets, and enables 'one-click' in-app purchases in any J2ME, BlackBerry or Android app.

Tequila Planet provides instant monetization via in-house managed mobile billing with more than 380 operators in close to 100 countries. Leveraging its platform, Tequila Mobile distributes free games through a network of partners including independent app stores, social networks, mobile operators and top mobile and web portals.

Tequila Mobile Company Website:

http://www.tequilamobile.com

Tequila Planet:

http://www.facebook.com/tequilaplanet

Twitter:

http://www.twitter.com/tequilamobile

http://www.twitter.com/tequila_planet

hybris supports international e-commerce expansion at Lebara

hybris has announced that Lebara, one of Europe’s top telecoms operators for migrant communities has based its growing eCommerce platform on the hybris B2C Commerce solution. The platform underpins Lebara’s strategy to create a central e-commerce function to encourage direct engagement with its customers.

Lebara Ltd was founded ten years ago in 2001 with Lebara UK launching in 2007. Lebara now has over 3 million customers spanning the UK, Europe and Australia. It provides very low rates and instant connections for international mobile calls that run over high quality networks and its multilingual customer service supports its key target market of international communities and migrant workers. Lebara places great emphasis on communicating with customers on their terms and giving them online assistance, and this has extended into their implementation of e-commerce.

Lebara reviewed a range of platforms before selecting hybris B2C Commerce, which has been implemented by hybris partner, Sapient. The system is now live in the UK, Australia, the Netherlands, Germany, France, Spain, Switzerland and Denmark.

hybris B2C Commerce is supporting Lebara’s web channel, delivering web content management, ratings and reviews, internationalization, content and digital asset management plus product and price information. In addition, it integrates with third party services, such as store locator, a payment gateway, analytics, call data records and text and email service providers.

Commenting, Bryn Morgan, Head of Online at Lebara, said: “We wanted to ensure that our strategy for maintaining and supporting close links with our customers was emulated in our e-commerce site, and this meant finding a world-class commerce solution. With the help of Sapient, we selected and implemented hybris B2C Commerce which will help us to manage our growing international requirements and provide scalability to support our future needs.”

Within the hybris Multichannel Suite, hybris B2C Commerce enables businesses to optimise every interaction with their customers on a global scale and integrates order processes from different channels.

Ariel Lüdi, CEO of hybris, said: “Lebara is a highly respected, growing brand in the telecommunications market and we are delighted to deliver a platform from which it can expand to meet the needs of its international customer base.”

FACTFILE:

Hybris (www.hybris.com) is a leading vendor of next generation agile multichannel commerce software. Its clear vision about the need for consistency, coordination and personalization of information across all channels and throughout all phases of the customer lifecycle has resulted in the development of an integrated, agile solution which supports the industrialization and automation of operational marketing and sales processes. It is spearheading innovation in this field, enabling businesses to communicate and sell across all channels in a consistent and effective way. It has over 300 customers worldwide running more than 2,500 websites "powered by hybris". Customers are global brands from retail and manufacturing industries, including: Adidas, Levi´s, Lufthansa, Nespresso, Toys´R´Us, Coca Cola Beverages, Ericsson, Rexel, Bobcat, Kaiser+Kraft, Hornbach, Nikon, Migros, Conrad, and Grundfos.

About Lebara

Lebara is one of Europe’s leading telecoms operators, enhancing the lives of migrant communities by providing high quality and low cost international mobile products and services. Lebara provides Pay As you Go and Pay Monthly mobile SIM cards and related services customised to serve the migrant communities in seven European countries as well as Australia.

In FY2010, Lebara turned in revenues of €565m (- more than a 50% increase on FY09), and profits before tax of €21m (- a 139% rise on FY09). The company currently employs some 1,400 employees across its operations and markets.

In March 2011 the company maintained its position as the UK’s leading MVNO, when it received awards for best Mobile Virtual Network Operator and Best Customer Service at this year’s Mobile News Awards and more recently, the company picked up two new Customer Service Awards: best UK Customer Experience in Telecom Sector and best UK Customer Experience Team at the UK Customer Experience Awards. Lebara’s CEO Yoganathan Ratheesan won the Asian Business Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2010. Lebara has most recently been awarded the 2011 Ruban D’Honneur, which recognises 100 European companies that demonstrate excellence, innovation and best practice in their industry.

Is YOUR mobile phone a security risk?

New research from The Carphone Warehouse has revealed the risks many mobile phone users are taking by not securing their handsets. Over half (54%) of UK adults think their phone and the data on it would be secure, should it be stolen or lost. However, 86% of these people don’t have security software installed on their phones, making them vulnerable to thieves and prying eyes. Interestingly, 89% of us have installed security software onto laptops and computers, however the interest in security does not seem to run through to mobile phones.

As phones become more sophisticated and sales of smartphones rise, thieves are on high alert for opportunities to bag new handsets, meaning mobile security becomes increasingly important for users. Today’s research, questioning over 2,000 people, highlighted the lack of awareness on the importance of protecting personal data. The Carphone Warehouse is launching Mobile Phone Security Week to educate consumers on the simple steps that can be made to secure mobile devices. All week, the Carphone Warehouse is providing in-store advice from their security trained staff. As well as in store, you can access tips and information at www.carphonewarehouse..com/security.

Mobile phones are obvious targets for thieves and - given how much we now rely on them - a lost handset can cost you more than just money. Half of people (49%) admitted to using their mobile phone to buy music, clothes and even insurance online, meaning their account details are logged on their phones and accessible should their phone be lost or stolen.

It’s not just our account details at risk, as almost a third (74%) of people cite using their phones to take personal photos - and keep them stored on the handset. David Rogers, Mobile Phone Security Expert says there are easy steps we can be taking to protect our privacy; “While technology is evolving, there are easy ways you can keep your data safe and secure when using a mobile phone.

For example, remembering PINs and passwords can be time consuming, but they are a simple and necessary way to deter any prying ears from accessing your handset or hearing your voicemail.”

Smartphones provide easy access to emails, making it more common than ever to be working outside the traditional office space. You can be on the train, in a coffee-shop or in a hotel, but flexibility in the devices and wireless networks we use means important confidential information is easily accessible. There has never been a more important time to protect yourself against being a victim of ID fraud via your mobile technology.

It seems that the thought of setting up security software may be daunting as 65% of the UK adults surveyed claimed they don’t have a password on their voicemail, even though one third (32%) of people worry that their phones are not very secure.

Matt Stringer, UK MD from The Carphone Warehouse said, “We’ve seen a real increase in smartphone users over the past year with roughly 85% of handsets sold last year with a postpay connection being smartphones. The more sophisticated the handsets become, the more attractive they are to thieves. The Carphone Warehouse can provide easy and inexpensive solutions that can save a lot of worry in the long term.

What’s more, Geek Squad’s Protect & Detect service has been specially designed to provide security for smartphones, including a free online hub to all Geek Squad customers, where they have access to unlimited online backup so their important data stays safe at all times. In addition Geek Squad agents can also help install mobile security packages such as Bull Guard* in store, which not only protects data, but provides the ability to track a phone should it be stolen via an Antitheft GPS Tracker. At The Carphone Warehouse we’ve worked with mobile security expert, David Rogers to pull together a list of top tips which we hope people will find useful to stay safe and secure in future.”

Available from The Carphone Warehouse www.carphonewarehouse.com or 0800 925 925

*Bull Guard Mobile Security is compatible with Android and BlackBerry devices.

FACTFILE:
For more information about Best Buy in the UK, go to www.bestbuy.co.uk.

Geek Squad, part of Best Buy Europe and a Best Buy Inc. owned company, is a 24/7 technology support service, available in all new Best Buy stores across the UK. Geek Squad provide technology support in store, over the phone, remotely through your computer, or via visits to your home. Geek Squad currently has a UK-wide network of Agents able to solve your tech problems, and can draw on knowledge from 20,000 other Agents across the world.

For more information about Geek Squad in the UK, go to www.geeksquad.co.uk

The Carphone Warehouse’s top tips to protecting personal data

1. Record your phone’s identity number in case it is stolen
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is what identifies your phone to the network and is located on the back of your phone underneath the battery. You can register your phone’s details and IMEI number on the UK National Property Register at: http://www.immobilise.com/. This helps the Police to return lost or stolen property to its correct owner.
2. Secure access to your device and voicemail
PINs and passwords can be a pain as they put a barrier in the way of things you do repeatedly. Firstly, voicemail. It is extremely important to have a PIN on your voicemail to prevent people listening into your private messages. Don’t choose obvious PINs e.g. 1111, 1234, dates of birth etc. Make use of the handset locks to protect your data and messages.
3. Learn how to remotely lock and wipe your phone if you lose it
Losing your phone or having it stolen does happen and when it does, what do you do to prevent someone getting access to your work or personal data? This is where lock and wipe services come in. Many handsets are now capable of running applications which allow you to stop someone getting access to your data and if you’re sure you can’t recover it, to delete your data. Some services can even help you locate your lost phone by using the GPS function of the device to work out where it is.
4. Be very wary of WiFi hotspots
However tempting it may be to connect to free WiFi when you’re out and about, take a moment to consider who is providing that service and why. If they’re charging, who are you giving your credit card details to? By connecting to an untrusted network, you could potentially allow an attacker to get into your accounts for social networking sites, your email and banking details.
5. Know what you are giving applications permission to do
Always think about what an application is supposed to be doing, where it came from and who made it. Simple internet searches can often verify the validity of an application if you suspect all is not well. Inspect the permissions that an application requests. While Apple and Android have monitoring in process, a common practice amongst hackers is to create a fake copy of a genuine application and host it on an alternative, unmonitored app store. This might be free on a separate site, to entice people to download it. Sadly, the free version is a “Trojan horse” and will do nasty things.
6. Be careful when clicking on web links and scanning 2D barcodes
Don’t be lured into clicking on an unknown link to a web page. A phone’s screen is much smaller and it is often more difficult to see a full link to a website and verify that it is what it says it is. New technology allows barcode scanner applications to read 2D or Quick Response (QR) codes (kind of like square barcodes). These are often put in newspapers and on advertising boards. Be very careful – do you know and trust the source. Could the poster have been tampered with or be fake?
7. Always backup your data
This is something that is always on the to-do list but never quite gets done. Take a little time to think about what would happen if you lost your phone, phone numbers and photographs and how it would affect you. Then think about what you can do to mitigate that.
8. Be careful when charging your phone on someone else’s computer or at a charge point
Be extra careful if you desperately need to charge your phone while out and about. A lot of phones combine a data connection with the charger so you could end up having your data stolen without realising it. Who is providing the service? Do you have to handover your phone to have it charged?
9. Protect your children whilst surfing
Kids often know more than their parents when it comes to new technology. Whilst a phone can give you peace of mind that your child is safe when out and about, it also has access to lots of functionality and content that you might not want to allow your child access to at home. There are some applications available that can be installed on mobiles to help you manage what your child can access or download. You can get a shop to set these up for you and set a password so that your settings can only be changed by you. Some great information on protecting your children online can also be found in The Carphone Warehouse’s Guide to Mobile Web Safety http://www.carphonewarehouse.com/mobilewebsafety

In need of a break? Indulge with Phones 4u!

To celebrate the launch of the HTC Wildfire S in Pink which is available exclusively from Phones 4u, the mobile retailer is giving people the opportunity to win the handset itself and a personalised spa break at any Champney’s resort.

To win the getaway people must share their most embarrassing story with Phones 4u, the one that the judging panel deems to be most horrifying will win the indulgence spa break, tailored specifically to the winner and/or their friends along with a brand new HTC Wildfire S Pink.

The HTC Wildfire S Pink offers a comprehensive smartphone experience in a compact, svelte case. The baby pink paintjob and impressive specification – 5 megapixel camera with LED Flash, Android 2.3 operating system, HTC Sense user interface and 3.2-inch touchscreen – makes it the perfect addition to any handbag.

Visit Phones 4u and share your story now:
http://community.phones4u.co.uk/blush-up-win-a-htc-wildfire-...

Everything Everywhere Announce the Appointment of a New Director of Transformation

The UK's top mobile phone operator is pleased to announce the appointment of former Tesco Telecom COO, Mark Horrobin, to the role of Director of Transformation for the brand, in a move which can only lead to bigger and better things for the company.

The Former COO of Tesco Telecoms, Mark Horrobin has been named as the new Director of Transformation at Everything Everywhere, the company that was created in April 2010 when Orange UK and T-Mobile UK merged. The decision to appoint Horrobin in this role follows Everything Everywhere's four key areas of transformation throughout the integration of the two telecoms giants and will help to deliver a new strategy for the company.

A spokesperson for Everything Everywhere said: “When we decided to merge both Orange UK and T-Mobile UK, we knew overseeing the merger was going to be no easy feat. So we needed to find someone who has not only had an exemplary career in the industry but has also have hands-on experience of managing such a big project, and Mark was exactly what were were looking for.

“Mark has managed to have a very impressive career in telecoms and communications; prior to working at Tesco Telecom, he worked at The Carphone Warehouse, Onetel and AOL, so we're really very happy to have such an experienced person on-board.”

This new role will see Horrobin employed as a consultant, and his main role will be to organise and coordinate Everything Everywhere's four key areas of transformation: The HR project, 'Our People' an incentive for staff to 'be the best', 'Our Customers', which aims to create and maintain high value growth in customer numbers, and finally, 'Our Future', which concentrates on the use of data, and the actions that Everything Everywhere needs to take in order to become a data-centric telecommunications company.

The spokesperson for Everything Everywhere went on to say: “As a relatively new company that represents Orange UK [http://shop.orange.co.uk] and T-Mobile UK we at Everything Everywhere are really keen to become market leaders in the telecommunications industry.

“We believe the only way to do this is by working on our company, so we can be the very best at what we do, so we need to invest in our staff and training programmes in order to achieve the best results possible, and Mark is the man that will help us to do this.”

A spokesman added: “Our name is Everything Everywhere and that's exactly what we want to give to our customers.

“We believe wherever they are in the world, they should be able to access whatever they want, whenever they want it – at the touch of a button, with the flick of a switch, in the blink of an eye.

"We want to bring our customers closer to the people, places and things that matter most to them, giving them instant access to everything, everywhere.

“In September 2009 it was announced France Telecom and Deutsche Telekom had agreed to merge T-Mobile UK and Orange UK into a 50:50 joint venture to create the UK’s leading mobile operator. After dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s, the company was officially formed on April 1 2010. Then, on May 11 we announced our name, vision and leadership team.”

Firstnumber Welcomes Proposals To Cut EU Mobile 'Roaming' Prices

Recent proposal to cut mobile phone roaming charges while in the EU has been widely acclaimed by Firstnumber, a service provider that offer cheap international calls from anywhere in the UK.

The proposal made by the European Commission is aimed at reducing mobile phone costs when making calls, sending texts and browsing the internet anywhere in the EU. With the intention of making it the same price as it costs when at home. The EC have stated it costs roughly £2 per megabyte to download when abroad without any current maximum cap set. To make a call currently costs 31p per minute and 10p per minute to receive a call.

The proposed plans, if agreed, would come into force in 2014, and set a maximum cap to data charges set at 45p for data per megabyte. Calling will be reduced to 22p when making a call and 9p when receiving a call per minute.

A spokes from Firstnumber (www.firstnumber.co.uk) said: “this is long over due and consumers have been charged at an unreasonable rate for too long. These plans help match what consumers expect to pay and will hopefully increase competition and choice within the market, whilst helping to create better offers for consumers.”

The Firstnumber spokesperson also went on to suggest that it is important that cheap international calls are made even more readily available to everyone and that it doesn't stop with this proposal.

The proposal includes the recommendation that mobile customers will be able to opt for a separate cheaper mobile contract that will allow for cheaper roaming costs and will use the same number and SIM card.

Firstnumber advises all users before going on holiday to remember the following tips that may help you from being caught out - Start by using Wi-Fi wherever possible, as there will be many hotspots within all major cities, secondly, try short texts to help stay in touch and forget about worrying for every minute on the phone. Lastly, check before leaving for a holiday with the phone operator and make sure of all the data charges and price to call.

Freestyle Interactive launches new mobile site for Arriva Bus UK

Arriva Bus UK which carries 770m+ passengers every year has just launched a mobile-only version of its website.

Created by FreestyleInteractive the new mobile site was produced in response to the increasing numbers of bus passengers in the UK who are searching and requesting information about Arriva bus travel whilst on-the-move.

The mobile site is a slimline version of the main Arriva site .Passengers accessing the main site via their handset will be automatically re-directed to the mobile friendly version for easier navigation and downloads.

David Shadbolt, Arriva Bus UK marketing manager,UK Bus said: “Changing passenger behaviour is the motivation behind creating a fast and easy to use mobile version of the site. The travelling public need access to ticket, timetable, network routes and downloadable maps when they want it, wherever they are. This new site enables this regardless of the handset type.

“Increasingly we see the mobile channel, especially m-ticketing, as a crucial part of our customer service offer. It’s one of the reasons we have put a lot of effort into helping our customers get to grips with the concept of how easy and convenient m-ticketing is,” Mike explained.

Freestyle account director Angel Gibbons said: "The new mobile site is the result of Arriva’s understanding of consumer behaviour in digital. Arriva is a forward looking company and is focussed on meeting consumer demand by providing bus travel information that is easily accessible on-the-move."

Freestyle Interactive has been working with Arriva Bus for the past 4 years and is currently developing a range of digital marketing communication campaigns for the Company.

(EDITOR: Will the service provide detailed information as to why a bus hasn't turned up? And when the next bus will bother to arrive at your bus stop? If so, that would be a great service. But don't hold your breath!)

Tough jobs call for a Toughbook

Panasonic has launched the Toughbook CF-H2, its second generation, fully rugged tablet PC designed specifically for field workers. Setting new standards in ease of use, connectivity and productivity, the CF-H2 is the ultimate tool for mobile and field workers helping them to stay productive, even in harsh environments, by delivering constant access to their applications and business data.

Whilst it is lightweight, it is a fully rugged tablet that is ideal for field workers in utilities, logistics, automotive workshops, rail and aviation, plus sales personnel, retail point of sales and market research.

With the latest Intel® Core i5-2557M (1.7GHz) Ultra Low Voltage processor with vPro and the Intel® HD 3000 graphics for enhanced multimedia capabilities, the Toughbook CF-H2 performance has been improved more than 400% over its CF-H1 predecessor. The CF-H2 is ideal for power hungry field applications like GIS, mobile CAD and powerful diagnostic tools. RAM is also boosted, its now raised to 2 gigabyte as standard, with up to 8 gigabyte optional, and it comes with a 160 gigabyte hard disk drive as standard with 128 gigabyte SSD as an option.

Ergonomically designed for field workers
The CF-H2 is designed for mobile workers who need to multi-task whilst holding the device in one hand. Lightweight rugged design (approx. 1.58kg), with an easy-to-grab handle, the fanless device maintains a low surface temperature using its unique heat dissipation system and is available as a dual touch (digitiser and touchscreen) model.

The best screen visibility on the market
The CF-H2 always ensures the screen delivers just the right level of brightness for optimum viewing whatever the conditions, inside or out. To achieve premium visibility the CF-H2 uses a 10.1” display with Panasonic Transflective Plus technology. This operating mode helps cut power consumption and enhance battery life as no backlight is required in bright environments. This results in a massive enhancement of up to 6,000nit equivalent of transflective brightness under a 200K lx environment. The CF-H2 also incorporates a circular polarizer to reduce reflection.

Functionality to fit every purpose
For maximum productivity at the point of work, field workers need to perform a wide range of tasks. The CF-H2 is ideally suited. Optional barcode readers are available to assist with data capture requirements.

For taking photos in the field, the CF-H2 Field features an optional auto focus, 2.0 megapixel camera with a high brightness LED light.

Interfaces are often required by field workers to connect devices and peripherals to record information or for diagnostic purposes. The CF-H2 is perfectly positioned to fulfill this requirement with a USB 2.0, LAN and serial port (optional 2nd USB2.0 port in lieu of LAN port) available directly integrated into the device.

The CF-H2 also has all the options covered to ensure data is secure in the field. Quick user authentication can be achieved using the optional fingerprint reader for enhanced security. There is an optional contactless smartcard / RFID reader, which is compliant with ISO 14443 type A and type B, or an integrated, contact smartcard reader covered and sealed with its own latch for maximum protection and security.

Built to stay connected on the move
Ensuring mobile workers can always stay in touch when on the move, the Toughbook CF-H2 offers WLAN, 3G (optional), Bluetooth and GPS (optional) for navigation and job scheduling. To improve data transfer capability, the Ericsson F5521gw HSPA+ module with wireless ready connection manager can be integrated as an option, significantly increasing download speeds up to 21Mbps. Available upon request, the device can also be switched into Anti-Theft-Protection mode by utilizing the latest Intel® ATP technology.

The power to last
To ensure that field workers have a device that can work for as long as they do, even when access to power is lost, the CF-H2 can operate for up to 6.5 hours (MobileMarkTM 2007, 60nit) running on Windows® 7 by using the hot swappable, high-capacity twin-batteries developed internally by the Panasonic battery division. The CF-H2 charges its 2 batteries at the same time, in a rapid parallel mode, for quicker charge times (approx 3 hours).

All units also utilise the Panasonic Power Management Utilities technology to maximize power efficiency by managing the power of all relevant resources required by the CPU depending on each task or by definition of individual user profiles.

Improved system start-up
To maximise the efficiency of the field workers, the CF-H2 also includes Panasonic’s Quick Boot Manager which can reduce the boot-up time of the device down to approximately 15 seconds***.

Better than ever reliability and durability
With magnesium alloy casing, inside, and Panasonic’s anti-scratch coating, the CF-H2 remains one of the toughest rugged tablets available in the market.

With an HDD damping and rugged casing systems to optimise drop protection and an HDD heater and Panasonic’s foam packing system to provide optimum ingress protection, the CF-H2 can operate in some of the harshest environments.

“This next generation Toughbook CF-H2 is the ultimate rugged tablet for the field workforce,” said Stephen Yeo, Panasonic Toughbook European Marketing Director. “Listening closely to our existing customers, we have built a second generation device that is more powerful, easier to use and with more functionality than comparable devices on the market whilst maintaining all the reliability of the Toughbook brand.”

New CF-H2 Health model
Alongside the CF-H2 Field model, Panasonic will also introduce the CF-H2 Health model, with full details to be announced shortly. The CF-H2 Health will include the same major power, ease of use and functionality improvements as the CF-H2 Field whilst maintaining its important health industry features. These features include being tested and certified to hospital cleaning standards, allowing the device to be wiped down and cleaned by different disinfectant fluids and cloths, as well as providing a secure and intuitive platform for barcode medication administration (BCMA), vitals capture and electronic medical records (EMR) capture and review – all at the point of care.

Compatibility that counts
To ensure existing customers can continue to use existing peripheral equipment, the new CF-H2 is compatible with many of the CF-H1 peripherals in order to provide long-term product lifecycle stability.

Backed by outstanding service
Every Toughbook comes with a 3-year warranty covering hardware failures for systems used as designed; with a 96-hour repair commitment and 5-year spare parts availability.

Availability and pricing
The CF-H2 range is available from July 2011, starting at €2119 MSRP (excluding vat).

FACTFILE:
Panasonic Toughbooks are designed to give mobile workers in challenging environments reliable and secure access to their data and applications. Toughbooks are designed to overcome the situations where traditional mobile PCs fail including vibration, knocks, water, dust, disinfectants, sunlight, battery life, and one-handed operation.

By finally giving workers access to IT in challenging environments, business processes, productivity and customer experience can be dramatically improved. Panasonic Toughbook made its first rugged mobile PC in 1994 and today has a 65% share of the European Durable and Rugged notebook computer market (unit sales 2010, VDC Research, March 2011).

For further information visit www.toughbook.eu.