August 28, 2023
by
Macie Blakeman
|
BLOG
When we think of scanning technology in demanding work environments, iPhones aren't the first piece of equipment that comes to mind. There's been a longing to integrate the intuitive, familiar, and user-friendly features of iPhones within industrial environments,
but until now, that's seemed like an unattainable dream. The scanning options have typically been limited to clunky, heavy, and hard-to-operate computing equipment, which is expensive to implement and requires substantial investment in training staff.
iPhones, admired for their sleek design and delicate technology, have previously seemed unsuitable for scanning in heavy-duty industrial settings. Socket Mobile, however, is changing that narrative with the introduction of our XtremeScan product line (AU, EMEA, UK), carefully crafted to provide the best of both worlds—combining the effortless user experience
and functionality of consumer technology with the durability and protection needed in challenging conditions.
The Challenge: iPhones in Industrial Environments
iPhones are synonymous with top-tier tech. They carry a premium price tag and are a testament to modern design and user-friendly functionality. However, despite their cutting-edge technology and user-friendly interfaces, iPhones have traditionally been
excluded from industrial scanning settings for several reasons:
The Fragility Factor
iPhones, like any other high-end consumer device, are susceptible to physical damage. The iPhone's glass screen and camera are especially vulnerable to drops and impacts, a common occurrence in bustling, extreme
work environments. Any damage can lead to costly repairs or, worse, a complete replacement, an expensive proposition for an industrial device.
The Dust and Particle Dilemma
Open electrical ports, integral for charging and connecting accessories, are potential entry points for dust and fine particles. In an industrial environment, these small invaders can cause significant
damage to the device's internal workings, leading to malfunction and expensive repairs.
The Weather Woes
Extreme weather poses another challenge for iPhones in industrial settings. Rain, snow, and water can damage inner electronics, while high temperatures can cause overheating, leading the iPhone to lock up to cool
down. This not only risks damage to the device but also hinders productivity by preventing users from using the device when they need it most.
Given these challenges, the iPhone has previously been seen as an unlikely candidate for capturing data within industrial environments. Workers have been limited to heavy, bulky scanning equipment that lacks an intuitive user experience, ultimately leading
to decreased productivity. However, Socket Mobile saw beyond these limitations and recognized the untapped potential of utilizing consumer-grade devices like the iPhone to capture data, even within the most challenging conditions.
The XtremeScan Solution: Marrying Military-Grade Durability and User Familiarity
In comes the XtremeScan line, Socket Mobile’s innovative solutions designed to empower industrial workforces with the user-friendly interface of an iPhone coupled with the rugged protection required for tough work environments. This product line
isn't just providing a simple protective iPhone case. It's harnessing the immense potential and familiarity of iPhones and enhancing them with military-grade durability and high-performance industrial scanning capabilities, enabling the ultimate data
capture experience.
The first members of the XtremeScan family include the XtremeScan Case XC100 (AU, EMEA,
UK), XtremeScan XS930 (AU, EMEA,
UK), and XtremeScan Grip XG930 (AU, EMEA,
UK), all of which provide features that enhance the capabilities of the encased iPhone. The product line boasts:
- Unparalleled Protection: All XtremeScan products feature a hard outer shell with rubberized shielding that’s built to withstand multiple drops onto concrete, and built-in screen and camera lens protectors to shield the most
vulnerable components. With an IP65-rated seal, the casing is dust and water-resistant, protecting the iPhone from internal damage.
- Convenient and Safe Charging: With built-in wireless charging, there are no exposed electrical contacts that can wear out or fail over time, ensuring the iPhone is always ready for demanding workloads and can be charged without removing
it from the XtremeScan case. In addition, the XS930 and XG930 scanners include a field-replaceable rechargeable battery that lasts an entire shift on a single charge.
- Enhanced Scanning: The XS930 and XG930 both include Socket Mobile’s Class 2 laser scanner, capable of reading barcodes through plastic or glass, even in bright or poor lighting conditions. The XC100 provides users the option
to utilize the iPhone’s impressive camera to scan barcodes using SocketCam (AU, EMEA,
UK), Socket Mobile’s high-performance
camera scanning software for capturing 1D and 2D barcodes.
Embracing the Power of iOS Apps
Beyond providing protection and resilience, XtremeScan unlocks the full potential of iOS apps in industrial environments. The plethora of iOS applications, ranging from inventory management, communications, quality control, and more, have immense potential
to increase productivity and streamline operations in the industrial space.
With the XtremeScan line, we're paving the way for these applications to be utilized in harsh conditions, boosting efficiency, quality data capture, and overall productivity.
XtremeScan: Redefining Industrial Solutions
With XtremeScan, Socket Mobile is not just offering a rugged case for the iPhone; we're fundamentally reshaping the way iPhones can be used for data capture in extreme work environments. We're making the familiar, user-friendly interface of the iPhone
accessible in all industrial settings, enhancing efficiency and productivity in these environments.
This transformative solution promises to redefine industrial solutions, making them more accessible and user-friendly than ever before. With XtremeScan, the future of industrial data capture is here, and it is robust, reliable, and remarkably familiar.