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General discussion

ruggedized 4" unlocked android GSM smartphone

Feb 9, 2015 7:47AM PST

I am looking for a ruggedized unlocked GSM android smartphone.

Size: 4" (smaller size is important)
Battery: user replaceable
Glass: Gorilla glass/ very hard to mar with car keys, e.g.

Shock-resistance and scratch-resistance are far more important to me than water-resistance/dust-resistance.

Other features desired:
-- excellent call quality
-- excellent speakerphone
-- compass, GPS
-- 3G data
-- spare parts/ service readily available in the USA; I don't want to have to ship it overseas for warranty issues

I will be using it mainly as a phone and speakerphone, for texting, and to get driving directions. I'd like it to be able to speak to me when I'm driving to tell me where/when to turn.

Does something fit the bill?

Discussion is locked

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Suggestion....
Feb 9, 2015 10:07AM PST

try using the phone finder tools at phonescoop.com or phonearena.com. That might help you in your search. Good luck.

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Sounds like a unicorn to me
Feb 10, 2015 1:15AM PST

First of all, there's just not much demand in the US for such a rig. People purchase hardened cases to get around the lack of features you mention.

Reality check- there won't any good amount of 'shock resistance' since these are generally quite sensitive devices, nor will there be a screen that can withstand metal scraping against it. Again, use a case if you need that type of 'tank-like' quality for a smartphone.

The real problem is that most of the time we acquire phones in the US via our carriers, so that's why you only see what is currently available in the marketplace. I would also visit XDA developers forum online for more recommendations, or workarounds for your particular needs. I frankly am not seeing anything now.

Another reality is the warranty/service issue. Buying another model via a carrier and you could more easily cover damage/etc. via a replacement policy or insurance claim. Anything else will be coming out of your pocket Sad.