Motorola Solutions Introduces Android-based ET1 Tablet for Retail

Motorola Solutions recently unveiled the ET1 tablet, the first in an emerging category of enterprise-class tablet computers designed for a variety of vertical markets. 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.

Intended for demanding day-long use, the Wi-Fi-enabled ET1 is password-protected so it can be easily shared and instantly provisioned for each employee according to his or her level of responsibility and access rights. Based on log-in information, managers can automatically control and monitor use of approved applications to help ensure on-the-job productivity is not compromised.

With the ET1, retailers can seamlessly and securely run a variety of applications developed by Motorola’s partner and independent software vendor (ISV) community.  Applications include assisted selling, mobile point of sale (mPOS), manager electronic dashboards, planogram management and item locator.

Running an enterprise-ready hardened version of the Android operating system, the ET1 tablet is designed to be used 24 x 7 by multiple staff members.  The unit 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, allowing for consistent user experiences.

The ET1 incorporates a durable Gorilla Glass™ 7-inch color display, designed for customer-facing applications containing video and images. In addition, the screen bezel can be customized to match the retailer’s brand.

Motorola’s ET1 tablet offers a comprehensive suite of enterprise-class features and accessories including durable design to withstand multiple bumps and drops during a workday.  The unit features an optional integrated bar code scanner and magnetic stripe reader and a hot-swappable rechargeable battery pack with memory back-up battery to retain RAM data for up to 15 minutes when the main battery is removed.  Other accessories include single- and multi-slot tablet and battery chargers, rfont- and rear-facing cameras.  Bluetooth-connected handheld bar-code scanners, mobile-payment readers and mobile printers are also available.

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