As promised, Sonim has released its promised land-rover based mobile phone handsets. The S1 model was spotted recently at the FCC. To term it as “rugged-looking” would be an understatement of the year, actually.

Considering Sonim’s speciality for the rugged handset thing, that really should not and does not come as any surprise. What might come as a surprise, though, are the pricing and the launch date. We do not have those with us yet. We continue to keep our vigil for more news, as always….

Sonim Land Rover S1

Source: EngadgetMobile

In a surprise business venture, Land Rover has joined hands with Sonim Technologies to create and manufacture branded cell phones. Three such phones are already in the making, with the Land Rover S1 and the Land Rover S2 G4 ready for release in the first half of 2009, the third to be introduced in the second half of the same year.

The cell phones will be very special because they will be tough and fit for practically any kind of adventure travel; will be waterproof, support Bluetooth; will withstand rough weather conditions such as fog, humidity and thermal shock. Why, this wireless device is even toted to be able to stand a straight 1.6-meter drop, from any angle, to solid concrete ground. Do you doubt any mobile phone can get any tougher than that?

Working with designer Scott Wilson, the brand will use GSM-based radio technology. The twin companies hope to market the products to both carriers and consumers in over 40 countries worldwide. Some of us might be skeptical about this apparently ‘mismatched’ joint venture. Well, let us wait and watch for more news updates on this one.

Sonim XP series

source Phone Scoop