Tait and Sonim partner to offer ultra-rugged smartphones with Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PTToC) solution

Sonim's unique ultra-rugged Android smartphones provide a platform for UnifyVoice, Tait's push-to-talk over cellular (PTToC) solution. Sonim's XP6 and XP7 devices, with dedicated Push-To-Talk and emergency buttons, deliver a rugged mobile radio-centric user interface appropriate to the mission-critical sectors Tait serves.

Sonim's ultra-rugged smartphone platform running Tait UnifyVoice software allows public safety agencies and industrial enterprises to cost-effectively extend their LMR networks to include non-radio users, freeing up critical radio capacity. Sonim's smartphones provide users with a familiar, easy-to-use experience with its built-in dedicated push-to-talk button, emergency key, long battery life, extra-loud audio and overall ruggedness.

Bruce Mazza, Tait Communications' VP of Solutions Marketing, says the Sonim line complements Tait's reputation for tough mobile radio equipment. "The ability to withstand whatever conditions the job demands is a hallmark of Tait equipment and Sonim has a similarly high standard with its cellular handsets," Mr. Mazza says.

"Through UnifyVoice, customers can supply some of their employees with an appropriate, work-fit cellular phone that interacts seamlessly with their radio network users – perhaps people who would not normally be frontline but who, especially in times of emergency, need to be in communication with those who mainly use the mobile radio network to do their jobs. This ultimately leads to more effective communications and a safer, more productive environment for users on the ground.

"Sonim's approach to creating ultra-rugged hardware built around an open Android ecosystem is exactly what is required by many of the land mobile radio sectors Tait serves," Mr. Mazza says.

Robert Escalle, VP of Public Safety and Defense for Sonim Technologies, welcomed the partnership as a means to demonstrate Sonim's desire to deliver a best-in-class solution to the first responder community. "We're excited to be able to work with Tait, the clear thought leader in the LMR industry. They have really committed to a truly open ecosystem approach to meet the evolving needs of mission critical communications," said Escalle.

Tait recently launched UnifyVoice at the IWCE 2016 demonstrating tight integration to its LMR systems leveraging ESChat software from SLA Corporation, along with P25 ISSI and DMR AIS gateways and unique seamless roaming capabilities.