14 DAY TRIAL // They say Windows phones no longer have a future, and yet, Panasonic somehow still believes in Microsoft’s mobile operating system. The company has launched the so-called Toughpad FZ-F1 in India, after previously presenting the device at MWC last year.
In short, the new Panasonic phone is developed to cope with the most extreme conditions, so it features super-durability with two certifications: IP65 for high-pressure jet spray resistance and IP67, which means it’s submersible to 3.3 ft (1 meter) for up to 30 minutes.
What’s odd is that although the device was supposed to be ultra tough, it didn’t achieve the maximum rating, and it’s even behind the Samsung Galaxy S8, which is IP68 certified.
Going back to the new Windows phone, it runs Windows 10 IoT Mobile Enterprise and is powered by a Qualcomm MSM8974AB 2.3 GHz quad-core processor with 2GB RAM and 16GB storage. MicroSD card support is being offered for up to 64GB extra storage.
6,200 mAh optional battery
The 4.7-inch display has a resolution of 1280x720 pixels and features rain sensing and glove touch modes with optional stylus pen. There’s also an angled 1D/2D barcode reader, NFC, GPS, micro USB, and dual SIM support. You also get Wi-Fi, but no Bluetooth.
As far as the battery is concerned, the device comes by default with a 3200 mAh unit, but optionally, Panasonic is also offering a 6200 mAh version, both featuring quick charging.
“The FZ-F1 is ready to go where business takes you. And if it takes a six-foot drop, don't worry - the FZ-F1 can handle it, so you can work in unrelenting conditions. So get to work,” Panasonic says.
If you think you’re going to afford one, there’s a pretty good chance that you won’t, or at least you won’t be willing to spend that much on a Windows phone. Panasonic will sell it for no less than $1650, as it markets the device as one of the toughest devices on the market right now.
