How to Pick an Android Phone for The Gig Economy

by: mobileworxsIn Android, DeliveryTagged , , , , , , , , ,

How to Pick an Android Phone for The Gig Economy

 

With text overlay How to Pick an Android Phone for The Gig Economy

If you are considering doing full or part time driving or delivery work you will get around to considering how to pick an Android phone for the gig economy

What Do You Need?

When you join Amazon Flex and many other Gig economy driver or delivery schemes such as Deliveroo and Uber you will need a vehicle and an Android or an iOS phone to a minimum spec and memory. Your device is likely to need to have a camera with a flash and GPS Location Services.

Most opt to go with Android over iOS devices based on affordability, a variety of rugged phone options and better device management connectivity.

7 Reasons to Use a Separate Smartphone

Yes you can use your private phone. But is it Rugged enough?  The phone will likely get a lot of wear and tear especially if you end up being very busy day after day. Inevitably you will drop the power jack may well become worn and the weather could take its toll.

This is a really important tool for your Gig life your success may well revolve around this.

  1. Longer Battery Life. Typically purpose built devices have higher capacity batteries than a standard smartphone.
  2. Pick something more Rugged and sealed. Purpose built devices are typically tested to multiple 4 foot drops.
  3. Longer life cycle. Enterprise grade devices tend to remain the same for longer therefore making repairs less costly.
  4. Lower cost extended maintenance plans.
  5. Out of the box value added features such as device management.
  6. High performance durable construction and components.
  7. Longer life vehicle mount options. Better quality components so they last longer.

Driving Heath and Safety

If you are using your Phone for calls or navigation whilst driving take some time to gen up on some tips here and here.

Barcode Scanning

If your Gig requires higher than average rates of barcode scanning make sure you pick a device with a dedicated scanner. You will be pleased you did. If you are just scanning a few codes per day, use a scan through the camera app, we can help you pick one.

Tax For Gig Economy Workers

In the UK the Vast majority of Gig economy drivers are self-employed. As such you are responsible for paying your own taxes and National Insurance contributions. This means completing a self-assessment tax return each year. Good news is that you do not pay taxes on all your income only your profits. This means you can deduct your business expenses from your total earnings. Learn More

Our Unitech Rugged Android Handheld Bundle

Our Unitech EA502 is a  fully featured enterprise grade handheld that has a huge array of accessories and value added features. A typical user will have this device in service for around 5-6 years. This is the sort of device that major delivery and field service organisations are using for long term sustainability.

At our shop you can pick up a device vehicle cradle and mount use the coupon GIG19 to get 10% off. Delivery is free in the UK and flat rate into other countries in EMEA.

How to pick an Android phone for the gig economy get in touch by phone or use web chat to talk to our team about equipment specification your mobility deployment project leasing and device management.

 Picking an Android Phone for The Gig Economy How to pick an Android Phone for The Gig Economy

 

MobileWorxs Adds Unitech Mobile Devices To Its Range

by: mobileworxsIn Android, Mobile ComputerTagged , ,

MobileWorxs adds Unitech Mobile Devices to its Range

MobileWorxs Adds Unitech Mobile Devices To Its Range

 

When an enterprise has numerous mission-critical handheld devices deployed across their operation and a technology refresh is needed, a change-over strategy is key to the successful roll-out of new devices to minimise disruptions in the supply chain.

Before this can be done, a deployment plan needs to be in place, which should also include the necessary training to ensure that all mobile workers are familiar with the new technology and competent to hit the road running at the ‘go live’ date. In addition, it’s also important to thoroughly test related software apps and iron out any glitches.

What is imminent in the mobile enterprise industry is the pending end-of-life deadline for Windows Mobile OS in December 2019.  According to MobileWorxs’ MD, Andrew Cahill, many of their customers are considering replacing their aging Microsoft PDA-based devices and migrating to Android across their supply chains.

To meet this increasing demand and provide more market choice, MobileWorxs has added the Unitech range of rugged Android handhelds to their product portfolio, along with the necessary sales and help desk support capabilities. “The Unitech range will be a popular and viable replacement option, as it combines a wide variety of technical options, affordability, quality and reliability in a brand that has established its credibility over 30 years across 25 countries,” he adds.

Paul Johnston, Sales Manager Unitech UK and Ireland says; “We look forward to supplying our range of enterprise mobile computers, rugged handheld PDAs, industrial tablets, RFID readers, barcode scanners, and other mobile devices to MobileWorxs’ customers, whether they are migrating to the Android platform, or looking to install affordable and reliable new technology.”

Key Unitech Mobile Devices

MobileWorxs will initially focus on four scan enabled products, with more devices introduced over time. The Unitech EA500 / EA502 rugged Android Smartphone is a rugged 5” mobile enterprise level computer combining strong features with powerful data collection for a variety of vertical applications within the retail, transport, logistics, and field service sectors.

The Unitech PA730 is an Android rugged handheld computer, built on the fastest growing and most popular mobile platform. This lightweight and pocketable device is versatile enough for a variety of applications in retail, event ticketing, asset tracking, and inventory management.

Next up is the Unitech TB85, an 8″ Android 8.0 device, which can connect to multiple modules, such as a scanner, making it versatile for multiple tasks across many industry sectors. The Unitech PA726 handheld computer is designed to optimise any business and features Android 7.1.2 for the most up-to-date Android experience for many enterprise applications.

Cahill says that they have also included a Unitech EA602 entry level mobile computer with RFID for for quick and accurate vertical applications in warehouse and distribution centre within the retail, transport, logistics, and field service sectors.

RAM Mounts – 3 steps to an ideal vehicle mount solution …

Get in touch to arrange a show and tell of any of the Unitech Mobile Devices.

10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Seuic AUTOID9 Android Handheld

by: Maialen SolabarrietaIn Android, Enterprise Mobile, Enterprise Mobility, Handheld, Mobile Computer, SeuicTagged , , , , , , ,

10 Things you Didn’t Know About the Seuic AUTOID9 Android Handheld

10 Things you Didn't Know About the Seuic AUTOID9 Android Handheld

Seuic AUTOID9 Android Handheld Terminal is a classic high performance in premise Android PDA that is used in various industries. The design is based on backlit physical keys and a touch screen which is practical comfortable and easy to operate. AUTOID9 can fully meet the requirements of industrial and warehousing installations for stability and durability.

Unlike consumer grade smartphones AUTOID9 has been designed from the outset as a productivity tool and represents great value when upgrading legacy Windows Mobile PDA deployments.

1. Physical keyboard.

AUTOID9 comes with a back lit physical keyboard allowing easy access of alpha and numeric characters for workers on the move.

2. Capacitive Touch Screen and Visible Display.

4” size Corning Gorilla WVGA capacitive touch screen, suitable for low temperatures. It allows crystal clear visibility and touch-screen-mode use with gloves and wet hands.

3. Portable and Light.

At 270g and 22mm thick it is compact light making and easy to carry.

4. Large Array of Accessories and options.

From carry pouches desk docks battery chargers and bespoke vehicle cradles. Device options include fingerprint recognition and NFC.

5. An ideal solution for Barcode Scanning.

If you need to scan choose from 1D or 1D/2D scanning options using engines from leading OEM’s. Clip on scan handle makes high frequency scanning comfortable and accessible to all staff.

6. Great Wi-Fi Speed and Connectivity and Mobile Device Management.

AUTOID9 supports a variety of connectivity options LAN configurations and device management such as SOTI.

7. Drop and Sealing.

The sealing rating of the AUTOID9 is a high IP67, which makes it tough when facing airborne dust and water. It has also been tested to a 5ft drop onto concrete.

8. Long-lasting Battery Life.

The 4000mAh Li-on battery can provide up to 12 hours of continuous working time and can be easily removed and replaced. Check out the optional dock and charging cradle.

9. Android.

Currently AUTOID9 is on 5.1 to ensure all your current Android apps run, will move to 7.0 in 2019.

10. Great value.

An ideal trade up from your existing Windows Mobile or CE handheld to sustainable Android. Get in touch about trading in your legacy PDA’s and for pricing in your territory.

10 Things You Didn't Know About the Seuic AUTOID9 Android Handheld Terminal  Seuic AutoID 9

Get in touch for more information about the Seuic AUTOID9 Android Handheld Terminal.

10 Facts about the Cruise 1 Rugged Smartphone That Will Amaze you!

by: mobileworxsIn Android, Rugged Handheld, UncategorizedTagged , , , , ,

10 Facts about the Cruise 1 Rugged Smartphone That Will Amaze you! Calling mobile workers in all marketplaces here are 10 facts about the Cruise 1 Rugged Smartphone logistics, transport, shipping…! Ever wondered how much easier it would be to work with your own personal smartphone? The latest addition to the MobileWorxs array of handheld […]

MobileWorxs add Seuic Android Handheld to Portfolio

by: mobileworxsIn Android, SeuicTagged , , , , ,

MobileWorxs add Seuic Android Handheld to Portfolio

MobileWorxs add Seuic Android Handheld to Portfolio

When an enterprise has numerous mission-critical handheld devices deployed across their operation and a technology refresh is needed a change over strategy is key to a successful roll-out of the new devices so as not to cause disruptions in the supply chain. It is also important to ensure that mobile workers are familiar with the new technology and that any new software apps are thoroughly tested.

Many companies are considering replacing their aging Microsoft PDA based devices and migrating to Android across their supply chains before the Windows Mobile OS end of life deadline at the end of 2019.  MobileWorxs have added the Seuic Rugged Android Handheld and Tablet range to the product portfolio to give users  a viable replacement option that combines affordability, quality and reliability Seuic will be incorporated into our sales support and workshop capabilities.

China has the world’s largest manufacturing, e-commerce and logistics industries, and is also the largest market for barcode and RFID mobile computers. Seuic has high sales volume across 25 countries. As a result, we can benefit from the cost advantages of Seuic’s scalable production and help our users be more productive in their supply chain.

MobileWorxs will initially focus on three products with more to come soon. These include the Seuic Cruise 1, which is a rugged smartphone suitable for field service, delivery and store operations. The Autoid 9, a rugged key-based PDA, will be a great drop-in replacement for legacy Windows mobile users in the general, as well as logistics and manufacturing industries. The Autoid Pad is a small tablet with a horizontal focus across many industry sectors.

MobileWorxs add Seuic Android Handheld to Portfolio

Get in touch to see how we can assist by doing an audit of your Windows Mobile assets and preparing an easy-to-adopt Android migration path that is affordable to deploy across the entire supply chain.

Dealing With Microsoft Windows CE OS End of Life

by: mobileworxsIn Android, Operating SystemsTagged , , , , ,

Dealing With Microsoft Windows CE OS End of Life

One of the most important operating systems that at one time underpinned many enterprise mobility deployments is about to enter the last phase of its life. So how do you go about dealing with Microsoft Windows CE OS End of Life ?

Microsoft Windows CE OS End of Life

Long before iOS and Android Microsoft announced Windows CE in 1996. The OS was designed to operate satisfactorily on the small memory capacities of palm sized devices at the time. Although recognised by many as targeted at hand held computers many platforms ended up using derivatives of CE.

In the enterprise mobility market Windows CE, Windows Mobile, and Pocket PC are often used interchangeably this is in no doubt in part due to their common origin. This practice is not entirely accurate. You can read more about the history of Windows “CE” here.  and Windows “Mobile” here.

Windows CE Legacy

A roll call of key Windows CE based devices used in the enterprise would generate a blog post of epic length. These are three of our favourite devices that were sold in large quantities all across the world into a variety of application areas including Manufacturing T&L and Retail,

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A faltering mobile OS business hurt Microsoft for many years, although popular in the enterprise due to high adoption market appropriate hardware and plentiful development tools. Versions of the OS for phones had been losing market share since 2007.

End of an Era Key Dates

These EoL dates have been trailed by Microsoft for some time.

Windows Embedded CE 6.0 went EoL in June of 2018
June 2019 – Windows Embedded 8.1 Handheld
January 2020 – Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5

So What Comes Next

For many users this will be something to discuss with their software vendor. The coming Microsoft Windows CE OS end of life may make little difference if the devices are working and no major system upgrades are planned. However patch support will cease and as hardware itself becomes EoL and developer resource dries up it will be time to move on to something else.  What that is very much depends on your circumstances, there is no one sized fits all approach. In a straight swap the main options for many sites are clearly Android a traditional rugged tablet on Windows 10 or a Microsoft Surface. Some may consider iOS but it has its drawbacks when it comes to device management.

Microsoft Windows CE OS End of Life Dealing With Microsoft Windows CE OS End of Life

Don’t let the Microsoft Windows CE OS End of Life get the better of your operation. Call us to discuss how we can help you weigh up the options and plan for the future.

How To Manage The Transition From MEAP TO MADP

by: mobileworxsIn Android, App Development, MADP, Mobile Application development, Windows 10Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

How To Manage The Transition From MEAP TO MADP

How To Manage The Transition From MEAP TO MADP

 

What is A MADP – Mobile Application Development Platform

MADP refers to an inclusive group of products and services that allow mobile applications for the Enterprise to be developed. Think of MADP as different from the traditional app development tools. Enterprise Mobility generates unique challenges that are different from those faced in the development of consumer mobile solutions.

MEAP to MADP  So what..?

MEAP has been around for a while and can usually be characterised as an interface with existing back end systems to enable data and applications on mobile devices. Whilst popular they were often a jumbled set of “parts” for developers to cobble together with custom code, leading to time-consuming and costly development projects. Headaches teams undertaking B2B enterprise grade app development could do without. In contrast the MADP helps to build a set of common features and services that can be leveraged in mission critical apps for integration to multiple platforms in a “we need it yesterday” business environment.

MADP Platform Selection Essentials

  • Single skill set that client developers can adopt and use.
  • Support for devices to work in network disconnected mode.
  • Make use of dynamic data.
  • Well proven barcode thermal print and GPS support.
  • Built in Mobile Device Management – MDM
  • Desktop console to manage the entire system.
  • Simple to deploy and integrate.

 

Pick a Highly Regarded MADP Supplier

Our partner MobileFrame has been recognized in Gartner’s 2017 Magic Quadrant for Mobile Application Development Platforms MADP

We have been working with MobileFrame for 10 years providing clients with mobile apps tailored to their unique workflow. MobileFrame is a leading code-free mobile application development platform that includes everything a company needs to ensure that their mobility projects run smoothly.  With MobileFrame technology, companies can give their field force the apps they need on the devices they love. Even the most complex applications can be written once and simultaneously deployed to any iOS, Android and Windows based device.

In their sum up Gartner says that, “if you don’t already use a MADP, evaluate and deploy one as a cornerstone product supporting your mobile development strategy, especially if your organization is starting to develop and deploy mobile apps at high volume (for example, more than six apps per year).”

“We’re proud to maintain and build upon a strong and loyal customer base committed to supporting us in identifying areas of core strength and further growth. Our client testimonials speak to MobileFrame’s ability to deliver better time to market and ease of use through our platform”, said Lonny Oswalt, Chief Executive Officer, MobileFrame. 

Read the entire MobileFrame Press Release about this prestigious award.

To receive a complimentary copy of the Gartner Magic Quadrant click here.

How To Manage The Transition From MEAP TO MADP

To learn more get in touch with us to arrange a webinar or meeting about MobileFrame MADP.

Create Write Once Deploy Anywhere Enterprise Apps

by: AndrewIn Android, App Development, Enterprise Mobile, Enterprise Mobility, ios, MobileFrameTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Create Write Once Deploy Anywhere Enterprise Apps

Create Write Once Deploy Anywhere Enterprise Apps

MobileWorxs will soon be announcing the UK release of MobileFrame version 6.0, the class leading write once deploy anywhere enterprise grade mobility app development environment.

This new version allows users to create, deploy, and manage sophisticated enterprise grade apps across iOS, Android and Windows devices as native, web or hybrid applications.

This platform includes all the tools for a successful fully-integrated mobile deployment such as, application development, device management, data management, robust synchronisation, a fully native client so your users can work even in areas with poor network coverage, GPS tracking, project admin tools, security, an integration wizard, scalable server options and on or off premise hosting.

Andrew Cahill, MobileWorxs MD, said “This new release of MobileFrame provides all the tools to allow robust enterprise grade solutions for a market steadily moving focus from the traditional Windows Mobile to iOS and Android”

Powered by the patented, code- free “write once deploy anywhere” mobile ERP platform approach, enterprises can design, build, configure test and manage custom apps across the enterprise from a single platform with no coding required.

The scope for apps to automate field based processes is vast both on and off premise and commonly includes field service, delivery, merchandising, inspections, van sales, vehicle inspection and inventory management. But remember! a great enterprise mobility deployment starts with a good management mind set and project plan.

Learn More (22)We can help you come up with an approach to enterprise mobility apps that is well thought through simple to use and has a positive impact on your business.

Get in touch to book a meeting or webinar to learn more about “write once deploy anywhere” enterprise grade apps.

What is Unified Endpoint Management

by: AndrewIn Android, BYOD, Enterprise Mobility, Events, Facilities Management, Mobile Device Management, TrendsTagged , , , , , , , ,

So What is Unified Endpoint Management

If you could not make it to Facilities Management show in Birmingham today here is the presentation we did with Hannah from SOTI “So What is Unified Endpoint Management”

So What is Unified Endpoint ManagementGet in touch to book a meeting or product evaluation.

Top 5 Mobile Stories of 2009

by: AndrewIn Android, Companies, Enterprise Mobility, iPad, Navigation, Operating SystemsTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Top 5 Mobile Stories of 2009

Top 5 Mobile Stories of 2009

Cast your mind back five years Microsoft launched Windows 7 Barack Obama became US President and Avatar was the biggest grossing movie taking in $761m.

Things move very fast in mobility so lets take a look back at what were some of the top mobile stories of 2009.

 

“iSlate” Rumours

This was an era when nearly a quarter of all PC sales in Europe were made up of sub laptop devices called “Netbooks” sporting mini screens and tiny keyboards. Rumors were swirling that Apple intended to bring out a device called “iSlate” a consumer grade breakthrough tablet to sell alongside the iPhone and iPod. Many commentators decided this was never going to happen including this hilarious article from PC World

As we all know the iPad was released in April of 2010 and some 200m units later the rest is history…

Navigation for the Masses

At the time Apple limited users to expensive options from TomTom or CoPilot. When Google Launched Google Maps Navigation a whole new functional area was born. This enabled Android users to use navigation straight from their phones and thus consigned many dedicated GPS navigation units to car boot sales.

Smartphone Adoption and Dominant Player Meltdown

Early in 2009 if you had a “smartphone” it was probably a Blackberry who had 55% market share in the US 20% globally and strong financials. If you were still using a plain cell phone it was likely to have been a Nokia who at the time boasted 41% world wide share. Later in the year one survey figured that 39% of people had a smartphone Blackberry still accounting for the largest portion of U.S. market share with 50% followed by Apple at 30% Palm with 7% and Android around 3%.

Adoption is now well over 50% in most markets with rates in some counties breaking 80%. In 2017, IDC expects that 1.7 billion smartphones will be shipped.

You all know what became of Blackberry and Nokia…

Android Goes Mainstream

It took a while to get off the ground but 2009 was the year Android went mainstream. All of a sudden it was obvious that the iPhone was not the only cool handset with built in music social media and the ability to browse the web.

The Motorola Droid got a lot of headlines and was a bestseller in the US but HTC Samsung and Sony all had success with early versions of devices on Android platforms.

Market share of the Android OS is now thought to be @80% worldwide…

Battery Power

We take this increasingly for granted but the development of mobile devices has led to huge innovation in battery technology to drive such features as LTE, Wi-Fi, Video,  Cameras GPS and those huge bright screens.

In 2009 1500 a mAh battery was the industry’s high water mark yielding for many smartphone users a battery life of about 6 hours

At the launch of the Galaxy S5 earlier this year Samsung boasted of a 2,800 mAh battery that the company claims can deliver 11 hours of video playback or 10 hours of web browsing over LTE.

So what can we learn from the top mobile stories of 2009 ? Things change fast and innovation and good timing can often by key to the success of new products.  If you are into crystal ball gazing mobile technology it may be safe to make a prediction 12 months out but 3 to 5 years is much much more difficult.

Top 5 Mobile Stories of 2009Get in touch to learn more about our approach to building effective solutions for enterprise mobility. No crystal ball needed.