The average cell phone is not designed for rugged use; simply dropping it onto a hard surface can oftentimes render it useless, or at the very least damage it to the point that it needs basic repairs. Let's face it, cells phones are dropped, thrown, driven over, washed in washing machines, and sometimes flushed. Cell phone users with more active lifestyles are likely to expose their cell phones to shock, sand, rain, and even saltwater.

Makers of cell phones have recognized the need for a more rugged all terrain cell phone and have taken steps towards not only developing phones specifically for rugged outdoor usage but have integrated some of the hardiest features into their entire product line; providing a cell phone that can withstand more abuse.

The XP1, created by cell phone maker Sonim, is perhaps one of the most rugged phones on the market. Coming in at a reasonable $365 per handset, this phone can withstand extreme temperatures, can be dropped, thrown, fully submerged, and even driven over by a car. This phone sacrifices none of the functionality needed from a cell phone; it is still a well designed stylish cell phone capable of making secure phone calls on any GSM network.

Applications of All Terrain Cell Phones

Sports Usage

There is a great application for rugged cell phones in outdoor sports environments. From use on the football field, to Nascar, even to use in water sports a cell phone that can stand up to heavy abuse and still be reliable is a great tool for use in all outdoor sports environments.

Military Use

With all of the various locations around the world that the military has troops stationed, there is a clear need for a cell phone that can tolerate extreme climates of all kinds. From extreme cold temperatures to extreme high desert temperatures, the phones in use would need to be adaptable between the two harsh climates. Additionally, phones that can withstand sand or wind are necessary. Cell phones used by the military also need to be reliable; considering that cell phones might be used in life or death situations, it is crucial to have a rugged cell phone that can be relied up to work no matter what the environment it is exposed to.

Fishing

Recreational fishermen have use of their radios when out at sea, but often have the need to communicate using alternate devices. The same applies for commercial fishermen, often working in harsh temperatures that incorporate salt water. A cell phone that can withstand the temperatures as well as not be affected by the salt water environment is very beneficial. A signal booster might be needed with phones used in these environments, however.

Construction

Not always the safest work environment for electronic gadgetry, a construction site can be rather hazardous to a cell phone! Cell phones can get dropped onto hard concrete surfaces, engulfed by dust and water, and also treated in a less than gentle manner. It's vital, for safety and convenience reasons, to have a reliable and rugged cell phone on a construction site.

The large carrier recognize the need that some of their users have for a rugged all terrain phone; and now offer, in their product lineup, several phones that can withstand the extreme environments they will be exposed to during the course of their use.