Motorola Solutions ships its first Android (7in) tablet for the enterprise

HTML5 application framework supports Windows Embedded Handheld and  Android

As the iPad gains traction with business users, Motorola Solutions has launched  its first of an emerging category of enterprise-class tablet computers designed for a variety of industries. The ET1 brings the familiarity and popularity of a consumer-class user experience to a true enterprise-class device that includes enhanced durability, an optional barcode scanner and magnetic stripe reader, hot-swappable battery packs, and secure system software. Key industrial-strength accessories such as secure multi-slot recharging stations are also available.

The Wi-Fi-enabled ET1 is based on log-in information and is password-protected for easy sharing and instant provisioning for each employee according to his or her level of responsibility and access rights, and for control and monitor use of approved applications to help ensure on-the-job productivity is not compromised.
Retailers can seamlessly and securely run a variety of applications developed by Motorola’s extensive partner and independent software vendor (ISV) community, including:

• Assisted selling
• Mobile point of sale (mPOS)
• Manager electronic dashboards
• Planogram management and compliance
• Item locator

ET1 runs an enterprise-ready hardened version of the Android operating system designed to be used 24 x 7 by multiple staff members. It is supported by Motorola’s portfolio of enterprise-grade software modules including RhoElements, a new HTML5 application enablement framework, businesses can now quickly and cost-effectively develop enterprise applications once and deploy them on both traditional Windows Embedded Handheld and Android-based Motorola devices.
ET1 uses a Gorilla Glass 7in colour display for video and image display. The screen bezel can be customized to match the retailer’s brand.
It offers a suite of enterprise-class features and accessories:

• Durable design to withstand accidental drops and bumps.
• Optional integrated bar code scanner and magnetic stripe reader
• Hot-swappable rechargeable battery pack, with memory back-up battery to retain RAM data for up to 15 minutes
• Single- and multi-slot tablet and battery chargers
• Front- and rear-facing cameras
• Bluetooth-connected handheld bar-code scanners, mobile-payment readers and mobile printers
• Optional hand strap for comfortable handling

The ET1 tablet will be available from fourth quarter of 2011, with Motorola’s Service from the Start with Comprehensive Coverage program for normal wear and tear as well as accidental damage to internal and external components, significantly reducing unforeseen repair expenses.