i-mate unveils 'good looking' ruggedised handset

Handset manufacturer and Microsoft Windows Mobile device specialist, i-mate, has unveiled what it claims is the world’s first lifestyle mobile with a lifetime warranty.

Designed to meet military specifications, the 810-F claims incredible durability but unlike other so-called ‘ruggedized’ handsets this one wouldn’t look out of place on the boardroom table.

The phone comprises waterproof rubber casing and exposed metal screws to lock in the factory seal, making it impervious to almost anything, and also features a full Qwerty keyboard, and an impact resistant touch screen.

The 810-F is designed around the MIL-STD-810F series of standards. These standards are issued by the US military’s Developmental Test Command, a body whose role is to ensure equipment can withstand the rigours of the most extreme environments. This means the i-mate 810-F can cope with pressure, heat, water, humidity, extreme shock, and is equally happy at a chilly -10C or sweltering 60C, and can be fully submerged in water.

Jim Morrison, CEO of i-mate, said: “Until now, users have had to choose between a compact phone that incorporates the latest features, or one that was big, bulky and very very expensive that could cope with the rigours of a harsh working environment and survive use during adventurous outdoor pursuits.”

If you want to check out the device at Mobile World Congress, look for the girls dressed as Lara Croft.