Android
Enterprise vs Consumer Devices... What's best for your business?
What's best for your business? If you’re deciding between a consumer device like an iPhone, Samsung or Huawei, and a rugged enterprise device for your workforce, you are not alone… At first glance, consumer devices can seem like the obvious choice – they’re sleek, easy to get, and often work with a BYOD (bring your own device) policy to cut upfront costs. But when you dig deeper into long-term value, durability, and usability, enterprise devices start to shine. Here’s a look at why enterprise-grade devices like Zebra Technologies’ TC22 and TC27 series are often the smarter investment. Improved total cost of ownership Consumer devices might seem cheaper at the start, but what happens when they break? Our smartphones aren’t built for demanding work environments, so repairs, replacements, and downtime can quickly add up. Enterprise devices, like Zebra’s TC22 & TC27 , are built to handle the toughest environments – think warehouses, manufacturing plants, or delivery routes. The TC27 is waterproof, dustproof, drop-proof, and even tumble-proof – surviving repeated drops. It’s designed with IP68 sealing and protected by ultra-tough Corning® Gorilla® Glass. This means fewer repairs and a much lower total cost of ownership (TCO) over time. Adaptability and ease of use An iPhone or Android phone is great for everyday tasks, but it struggles in industrial settings. Rugged devices like the Zebra TC22 and TC27 are built specifically for industries like manufacturing, logistics, and retail. They’re designed to fit comfortably in your hand while being tough enough for demanding tasks, and have customisable software options to streamline workflows, making them incredibly easy to integrate into your operations. For example, warehouse workers can quickly scan items with the TC27’s advanced scanning technology, even if the barcodes are damaged or poorly printed. Consumer devices just can’t keep up with this level of speed and accuracy. Stronger security When it comes to protecting sensitive company data, consumer devices can fall short. While they may offer some basic security, Zebra enterprise devices come with advanced encryption and remote management capabilities. These devices are designed to meet enterprise-grade security standards, significantly reducing the risk of cyberattacks or data breaches. In industries like healthcare or government, where data protection is critical, this extra layer of security is a must. Built to last Enterprise devices don’t just last longer physically – they’re built for all-day performance. Take battery life, for example. The Zebra TC27 comes with a standard 3800mAh battery that lasts an entire shift, and if you need even more power, there’s an extended 5200mAh option. Plus, the batteries are removable, so workers can swap them out without turning off the device. No more interruptions just to charge up! Compare that to a smartphone (typically 3000mAh to 3500mAh), and you’ll remove the need to recharge during a shift, avoiding interruptions that hurt productivity and cost time and money. Designed for worker comfort Long shifts in warehouses or retail environments can take a toll on workers, especially when they’re using devices all day. That’s why Zebra has focused on ergonomic design with the TC22 and TC27. These devices are nearly 10% thinner than older models and have a contoured surface that reduces pressure points, making them comfortable to hold for hours. The scan button is placed on the side for easy, natural hand positioning, reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries. You can also add wearable arm mounts or holsters to give workers hands-free convenience and make carrying the device even easier. Smarter scanning Speed and accuracy are everything in industries like logistics and retail. Zebra’s TC2x series devices come with top-tier scanning technology that can handle damaged or hard-to-read barcodes. In contrast, consumer devices rely on their cameras for scanning, which is slower and less reliable. With enterprise devices, workers can process more items in less time, boosting efficiency and reducing labour costs. More than just a device Consumer devices are fine for some businesses, but many companies are shifting to a broader “solution-first” approach rather than just focusing on the device itself. Zebra Technologies has noticed this trend and developed a mobile strategy to support businesses across industries – from retail and healthcare to manufacturing and government. Devices like the TC22 and TC27 are just one part of an entire ecosystem that includes software, analytics, and service support to help you succeed. While consumer devices might seem appealing at first, enterprise devices like Zebra’s TC2x range are purpose-built for businesses. They’re tougher, smarter, and more cost-effective in the long run, and they make life easier for your employees. Speak to a specialist at OpalTec to find out which Zebra devices can support your business
Zebra's new TC22 & TC27
The Ultimate Cost-Effective Mobile Computers For Your Business Zebra's TC22/TC27 mobile computers are the latest addition to their successful TC2x Series, providing all the latest features you will need to level the playing field and make it easier to compete with any size business. From retail, hospitality, and the warehouse to field service and entertainment, this durable device has it all — a next-generation processor, 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, CBRS and private 5G networks, a large 6" display you can see indoors and outside, fast first-time every time capture of barcodes in any condition with an integrated scanner, support for tap-to-pay and non-payment contactless transactions, battery power for the longest shift, accessories that make every job easier, plus proven solutions that add new capabilities that allow you to do more with the TC22/TC27. Get the boost you need to compete with any size business with the TC22/TC27 — the smartphone style workers want, and the features your business needs, all at a price you can afford. For more information, please click on this link TC27 / TC27 introduction video
End of support for Windows CE & Windows Mobile Operating Systems...
Is this Doomsday or a New Dawn for the Warehouse? You may have read that Microsoft is in the end of life phase on its Windows Operating Systems for mobile devices: Windows CE & Windows Mobile. Some versions, such as Windows CE 6.0 and Windows Mobile 6.5, are already end of support and others like Windows CE 7.0 will go end of support in the next 12 months. Most rugged mobile devices used in Warehousing and Manufacturing applications use Windows Operating Systems, so will be affected. This isn’t a doomsday scenario, but there will be security implications if you continue to use unsupported Windows Operating Systems based devices beyond the support date, so now is the time to be planning to move to new technology. New technology can ease operational challenges, so by embracing Android devices in the warehouse you can transform your business operations. Familiarity – Android delivers the user-friendly interface that your users expect from their smart devices, which improves productivity and reduces training time. Productivity – Faster devices, better WiFi performance, better displays, better battery performance, capture all 1D and 2D barcodes; these features all enable your workforce to increase their productivity. Capability – Connect to your WMS or ERP system using Terminal Emulation or Web clients without additional development. Modernize your applications to make them touchscreen friendly and intuitive. Add off the shelf Apps or develop new Apps to digitize other business processes. Add voice, messaging and email communications. Innovation – Enhance your existing warehouse processes by optimising them at the point of execution. New technologies such as voice control, head mounted displays, RFID and real time locationing allow you to change workflows to meet the needs of the on demand economy. OpalTec can help you implement a strategy to migrate to new technology, including selecting the right devices, migrating your applications to Android, testing and piloting, planning the upgrade, putting the right levels of support in place for the new devices, and once this is all complete, we can buy back your existing Windows devices. Whilst your planning your upgrade, OpalTec can continue to support your legacy Windows devices. Remove the fear of End of Support, and embrace the New Dawn of Android with Zebra and OpalTec. Contact us today to discuss an Android migration strategy tailored to your business needs. Zebra MC9300 The ultimate ultra-rugged Zebra MC9300 — the next evolution of the world’s best-selling and most trusted Android enterprise mobile computer. When your business deserves the best, the MC9300 delivers, providing the ultimate Android platform, the ultimate in application support, the ultimate ultra-rugged design and the ultimate accessory system. And since you can run your existing TE apps right out of the box, migrating to Android couldn’t be easier. Contact us today to find out more about the Zebra MC9300 series terminal Zebra Wearable Solutions Zebra’s robust wearable solutions are purpose-built for the enterprise. From Android wearable mobile computers to ring scanners that deliver unrivalled scan performance, these solutions give your front-line workforce the performance edge they need. By combining the hands-free mobility of our wearable technology with one-of-a-kind features like tap to pair capabilities, Zebra’s wearable solutions enable the operational flexibility needed to replace complexity with productivity. Contact us today to find out more about Zebra Wearable Solutions