A couple of years ago, Caterpillar – a brand best
known for their construction equipment – introduced a ruggedized smartphone
with thermal imaging capabilities. Now, they’ve finally improved upon that
phone with the release of its successor: the S61. Which is just as tough, but a
lot more capable.
Like its predecessor, this workman’s smartphone can
withstand drops, extreme temperatures (-4 to 752-degrees Fahrenheit), and is
even water-resistant up to 3 meters for a full hour (IP68). But this one is an
improvement in many ways when it comes to the tech inside. For instance, it now
has the ability to measure distance via a built-in laser and can measure the
air quality of any given space, as well as warn the user if it isn’t safe to breathe.
The original’s most impressive feature – it’s thermal imaging camera – has been
given an overhaul, as well. The new one can now overlay HD images with the
thermal feed and can even live stream them – a handy ability if you need to
send images back to your HQ for on-the-job consideration. The S61 will retail
for around US$ 1,110.
