Panasonic today announced the launch of its next-generation Toughbook FZ-T1 handheld device – a slimline, rugged model perfect for mobile workforces seeking an all-in-one solution.
The eye-catching, yet durable, 5” Android device brings together the best of handheld and smartphone functionality into a single design, to suit the mobile needs of industries such as retail and hospitality, emergency services, manufacturing, and transport and logistics.
The new Toughbook FZ-T1 is one of the most versatile, stylish and affordable Android rugged handhelds for business, and is underpinned by Panasonic’s industry-leading reputation for durable design and flexible functionality.
Clare Hose, Product Marketing Manager, Toughbook, Panasonic Australia, said:
“The Toughbook FZ-T1 is an important addition to our rugged handheld portfolio. Our customers are seeking a practical, rugged solution with a sleeker finish, which can still withstand difficult conditions – and that is exactly what we have delivered.”
“As Panasonic has done for 100 years as a company and for more than two decades with our Toughbook range, we evolve and innovate to meet the changing needs of our users.
“Mobile technology is clearly the future for business, but technology churn continues to be a significant cost challenge for organisations. It’s no surprise that with savings of up to 15 per cent over a five year-period on total cost of ownership*, Panasonic’s rugged devices are becoming the logical choice for decision makers who are seeking long-term investment in technology solutions.
“However, the business need for rugged devices is evolving from the traditional environmental concerns of withstanding drops and water and dust protection, to features such as the type of viewing screen, battery life and power management, data security and communication capabilities.”
More customers are recognising that a rugged device is not the same as a regular handheld device. Consumer devices have components that are not designed to withstand continuous use in difficult conditions, and are liable to break down from shock, dust, moisture, heat and cold.
In fact, research shows that for standard handheld devices*, the average cost of downtime per incident (including lost productivity, breakages and IT support to fix products or replace data) is upwards of AUD $3000.
With its voice and data capabilities, integrated barcode scanner and wide-range of functionality and accessories, the Toughbook FZ-T1’s balance of mobility and durability is set to improve workforce productivity and the ease and efficiency of business operations across Australia.
Panasonic also plans to release the Toughbook FZ-L1, a lightweight, rugged Android tablet perfect for edge computing and customer-facing mobile workers looking for a versatile and cost-effective device. The 7” display model is available with voice and data capability for both inside and field-based workers.
Toughbook FZ-T1 key features:
4G Model Option
The Panasonic Toughbook FZ-T1 handheld will be available in a 4G model, with voice and data capabilities. Built for the needs of the modern mobile worker, the high-performance device has the Android 8.1 Oreo operating system, a Qualcomm Snapdragon quad-core CPU, 16GB Flash and 2GB Ram storage.
Slim and lightweight
The lightest and slimmest in Panasonic’s Toughbook handheld range – at under 240g – the Toughbook FZ-T1 is easy to use but remains true to its Toughbook heritage. It is designed for military standard 810G, dust and water resistant to IP68, tumble tested and capable of withstanding drops of up to 1.5m, and operating within a temperature range of -10 to +50°C.
With an easy viewing 5” display, the Toughbook FZ-T1 has 10-finger input, daylight readable screen, is capable of operating in the rain and can be used with gloved hands or an optional passive pen.
Barcode scanning options
The Toughbook FZ-T1 has an enterprise-class, straight-line barcode reader built-in with two trigger buttons (either side of the device) to make it easy for left and right-handed operators. Optional standard barcode reader gun grips are available at launch with a long-range barcode reader gun grip following in early 2019. These accessories are ideal for operators scanning regularly, or needing to scan at a distance in warehouses or whilst operating forklifts.
Long operating times
Designed to operate a full-shift, the Toughbook FZ-T1 comes with a 12-hour battery life and warm swappable functionality, allowing the user to switch their own batteries without interrupting work.
Clear communication
For clear communication in busy work environments up to construction site noise levels, the Toughbook FZ-T1 is equipped with noise suppression technology and loudspeaker. It also has an 8-megapixel rear camera for easy document capture.
Wide range of accessories
As expected with a multi-purpose device, the Toughbook FZ-T1 comes with a wide ecosystem of available accessories at launch to match the needs of different mobile workforces. As well as the barcode reader guns, there are single and multiple chargers and cradles, holster belts, battery packs, passive stylus pens and protective display films.
Panasonic devices also offer Google Mobile Services (GMS), a collection of Google applications and APIs that support functionality across devices. These apps work together seamlessly to ensure that the device provides a great user experience right out of the box.
Pricing and availability
The Panasonic Toughbook FZ-T1 handheld with 4G data and voice capability is available now for $1899 RRP.
For further information, visit the Panasonic website or call 132 600.
*Panasonic: Pay Now, Save Later – The Business Case for Rugged Devices