14 DAY TRIAL // Swiss-based handset manufacturer Gresso, known for its popular luxurious mobile phones, has just launched the Extreme X3 rugged phone.
Less known for its Extreme series, Gresso dropps the fancy and expensive materials used for its luxury mobile phones, such as the $30,000 White iPhone 4 or the $6,000 Luxor World Time Phone, and moves into a different genre – ruggedness.
Gresso Extreme X3 has been certified with the International IP67 certificate, which means that it can endure extreme weather and environment conditions.
According to the manufacturer, Guinness Book of World Records has awarded the handset as the first of rugged mobile phone that will continue to function properly even after being dropped in water at a depth of 5 meters for 1 hour.
More importantly, Gresso Extreme X3 can withstand the weight of up to 1 ton, as well as extreme temperatures ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to +60 degrees Celsius.
In addition, the rugged phone can endure falls from heights of up to 7 meters against concrete, which makes it highly resistant to shocks. Obviously, the phone's chassis is sealed against dust and moisture, as well.
However, when it comes to technical specs, Gresso Extreme X3 is not among the most gifted mobile phones.
Opposite to what one may think, the rugged device offers users only the basic features of a mobile phone, such as ringtones support for only 16 polyphonic options.
In this regard, the Extreme X3 handset supports GSM 900,1800 and 1900Mhz networks and comes with standard features, including: FM Radio, Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity, flashlight and microUSB.
Furthermore, Gresso Extreme X3 comes with a very small 1.44-inch CSTN display, it measures 111 x 49 x 20mm and weighs 130g (battery included).
Gresso stated that the phone will be available next month for a suggested retail price of $270.