The Critical Role of Device Availability in Deploying PTT over LTE

With the continuous evolution of communication technologies, Push-to-Talk (PTT) has emerged as a revolutionary solution that provides immediate, secure, and reliable communication. However, the deployment speed of PTT over LTE is closely tied to one crucial aspect - the availability of suitable devices. To achieve efficient and rapid PTT over LTE deployment, compatibility with an array of devices becomes indispensable. This compatibility ensures that users can remain connected irrespective of their geographical location, device preferences, and network availability, thereby facilitating quicker PTT deployment and a more comprehensive user experience.

Consumer Devices and Their Limitations

Consumer devices, primarily smartphones and tablets running on operating systems like Android, are an attractive option for PTT over LTE deployment, because of their widespread usage and immediate availability. However, these devices come with certain inherent limitations. They often have weak audio output (max 70dB), lack dedicated PTT and SOS buttons, and face occasional issues with accessory interfaces - challenges that can prove detrimental in field sectors where robust, clear, and reliable communication is a must.

Rugged Devices: The Answer to Field Challenges

To overcome the limitations posed by consumer devices, the industry has turned to rugged devices. Designed to adhere to stringent MIL810G/IP68 standards, these robust machines are built to endure tough conditions and deliver optimal performance. They come equipped with superior M6 accessory interfaces that outperform 3.5mm jack, USB-C, or Bluetooth interfaces, and have physical PTT+SOS buttons for easy access. Rugged devices offer reliability, robustness, and longevity, making them a sound option for demanding conditions. However, their lead times typically extend to 4-6 weeks, which may affect the speed of PTT over LTE deployment.

BYOD Trend: A Boon for PTT over LTE

The trend of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) has also found resonance with PTT over LTE. Applications that provide touchscreen and floating buttons for PTT and SOS make it possible for users to employ their personal devices for work purposes, thus allowing greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

PUSHCOM

Choosing between consumer and rugged devices for PTT over LTE deployment ultimately depends on individual and business requirements. The right balance must be struck between immediate availability (consumer devices) and performance in demanding conditions (rugged devices). Our PUSHCOM application is making waves by bridging the divide between device availability and the speed of PTT deployment. Our application is a beacon of adaptability, compatible with around 1000 different consumer device models running on Android 5.1+. For those operating in demanding conditions, our application supports rugged devices that adhere to MIL810G/IP68 standards, making up 5% of the tested models. In line with the growing trend of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), PUSHCOM is designed to promote flexibility. It empowers users to leverage their personal devices for work purposes, catering to a modern workforce that values convenience and personalized experiences.