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The rugged devices market is estimated market to increase by USD 1.15 billion at a CAGR of 4.36% between 2023 and 2028. The growth of the market is driven by various factors, including the rising demand for data management systems, the increasing popularity of rugged barcode scanners, and a growing preference for Android-based devices. As businesses strive to improve efficiency and accuracy in data collection and management, the adoption of advanced data management systems is on the rise. Additionally, the need for durable and reliable barcode scanners in harsh environments boosts the demand for rugged models. Furthermore, the preference for Android-based devices is growing due to their user-friendly interface and wide range of applications, further propelling market expansion. These trends collectively contribute to the growth of the market, meeting the evolving needs of modern enterprises.
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In the dynamic realm of data management, the market for Android-based rugged devices is experiencing significant growth. Strategic collaborations between key players are shaping the vendor position in this sector. Upcoming trends indicate a focus on machine learning and big data integration for operational efficiency in various industries, including aerospace and defence, military and defence, and the utilities sector. Rugged smartphones, an essential component of this market, are gaining traction due to their ability to withstand harsh environments and provide uninterrupted connectivity. Warehouses and logistics services are major consumers of these devices, as they require devices that can withstand rough handling and extreme temperatures. The market facets of rugged devices span multiple sources, including promotions and customer reach, in various geographic areas. The product range extends beyond smartphones to tablets and other handheld devices, offering untapped opportunities for growth. In conclusion, the market is poised for expansion, driven by the need for operational efficiency, untapped opportunities, and the integration of advanced technologies like machine learning and big data in diverse industries. Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.
The growing demand for data management systems is notably driving the market growth. The need to collect and store accurate data in order to do away with paper-based processes is the factor driving the global market for rugged devices. In order to improve the business model and lower operating costs, the end user gathers this data and uses data analytics to extract useful information. The demand for rugged devices is also being driven by the accelerated rate of automation in the industrial and commercial sectors.
Furthermore, with the advent of cloud-based rugged devices, the risk of data loss is eliminated because the recorded data can be stored directly on a central server. End-users in numerous industrial sectors, including the oil and gas sector and the warehouse management market, have benefited from these factors. It also helps in avoiding the generation of duplicate data. Additionally, a number of companies are providing tailored data management solutions to raise the value proposition for end users. Therefore, owing to such factors the market will witness significant growth during the forecast period.
New product launches are emerging trends in market growth. Rugged tablets are now lighter and thinner than earlier models due to the rising demand for the digitization of electronics. Tablet frames are now vibration and shock-resistant, and their displays are now shatterproof and sunlight-viewable, making field operations more functional and effective than those using consumer-grade tablets. These tough tablets can also withstand harsh weather conditions, dust, and water. Internal parts like batteries, operating systems, and connectivity with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and long-term evolution (LTE) are also strengthened in conjunction with the external ruggedness. In order to provide multi-level authentication measures, many rugged tablets also come with fingerprint readers and authorized system encryption.
Continuing to attract new customers to rugged products will require a strategy that offers pertinent new features and appropriate product convergence. Some of the new product launches include the launch of a new version of the popular NAUTIZ X6 ultra-rugged phablet by Handheld Group in 2021. It is a handheld computer that combines the big-screen functionality of a tablet with the go-anywhere performance of a rugged phone. Similarly, Algiz RT10, an ultra-rugged 10-inch Android tablet, was launched by Handheld Group in 2022. The tablet combines design and performance with future-proof technology that will maintain its versatile application through its entire life cycle. Hence, with such continuous innovations the demand for rugged devices is expected to increase, which, in turn, is expected to drive the growth of the global market during the forecast period.
The use of consumer-grade devices in place of rugged devices is a major challenge impeding market growth. Consumer-grade smartphones and notebooks are replacing these devices among a variety of end users, including the government and others. This choice is occasionally made in light of the new consumer electronics that are currently on the market, which are significantly less expensive and have ruggedness levels comparable to those of rugged electronics. Apple, Samsung Electronics, and Sony are just a few businesses that are consistently enhancing their products' ruggedness. For instance, Sony's Xperia M2 Aqua has an IP68 grade, while Apple's iPhone X has an IP67 grade. This is the reason why a number of end-user industries, like hospitality, healthcare, and retail, which do not have demanding workplaces, opt for consumer-grade smartphones and tablets.
Additionally, compared to rugged devices, consumer-grade devices offer more functionalities. Incorporating cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality, artificial intelligence, gesture recognition, voice recognition, and virtual reality, for instance, some new consumer-grade smartphones have features like barcode scanning and IoT applications. Thus, the presence of consumer-grade devices is expected to hamper the market in focus during the forecast period.
The report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their growth strategies.
Market Customer Landscape
Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.
ARBOR Technology Corp. - The company offers RISC computing, embedded computing, rugged mobile computers, and medical computing. The key offerings of the company include rugged handheld devices such as handheld devices under 5.5, tablets 5.5 to 10, and panels above 10.
The report also includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about 15 market companies, including:
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.
The market share growth by the semi-rugged segment will be significant during the forecast period. Devices that are semi-rugged are rugged versions of consumer-level devices. These devices typically share the same parts and configuration as consumer-grade gadgets, but they have better hardware security. For instance, a semi-rugged handheld mobile computer would have advanced tempered glass, shockproof components, spill-resistant speakers, micro-USB ports, as well as additional protective layers (like bumper cases for added protection).
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The semi-rugged segment was valued at USD 2.08 million in 2018 and continued to grow until 2022. Despite the fact that these products cost more than consumer-grade products, end users favor them because of their robustness over consumer-grade products. Since the working conditions are not particularly demanding or harsh, the market is driven by the quick adoption of these devices in commercial applications in the hospitality, healthcare, and retail sectors. The commercial market is driving the adoption of these devices due to an increased focus on digitization. Reduced transaction times and real-time data storage and monitoring made possible by the use of these devices in commercial sectors aid end-users in improving operational efficiency and better understanding customer demands. Therefore, companies in the market are introducing products specifically for commercial users. Thus, these factors are expected to drive the growth of the market segment during the forecast period.
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North America is estimated to contribute 29% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.
The use of rugged devices in warehouses, logistics, and the defense industry is a key factor driving the market in this region. The global market for these devices has a significant contribution from the defense industry. The devices used in this segment are more specialized and cost more than these devices used in other industries. Numerous functions of the devices used in the defense industry include GPS navigation, fleet tracking, and accessing and logging sensitive data. The rapid adoption of rugged mobile computers in logistics, warehouses, and distribution centers also contributed to the growth of the market in North America. Additionally, the presence of companies such as Zebra Technologies, Honeywell, and Caterpillar will positively impact the market during the forecast period.
The market research report provides comprehensive data (region wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD Billion" for the period 2024 to 2028, as well as historical data from 2018 to 2022 for the following segments
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The Market is experiencing the growth due to the current market scenario characterized by increased public spending and advancements in RFID technology. Strategic collaborations among market participants are enhancing the vendor position and expanding the product range to meet the needs of various industries such as aerospace and defence, military and defence, utilities sector, power and marine, automotive sector, and construction sector.
Moreover, the market research reports provide comprehensive industry analysis, highlighting untapped opportunities and the influence of industry influencers. The vendor selection process involves meticulous vendor analysis, considering factors such as profit, pricing, customer reach, and geographic areas. Prominent market companies include the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning to enhance device functionality, especially in data centers and logistics and transportation. Rugged smartphones are gaining traction among construction workers and logistics service providers due to their high IP ratings and durability in harsh environments.
Furthermore, the strategic collaborations and promotions are pivotal in this market, enabling companies to leverage multiple sources for the synthesis of innovative products. Regulatory standards ensure that these devices meet stringent safety and performance criteria. The market landscape is further shaped by current market scenario studies, which identify emerging trends and untapped opportunities in industrial end-users. With the increasing reliance on big data and machine learning, the demand for the devices in sectors like logistics and transportation, construction, and defence is set to rise, driving market growth and ensuring technological advancements continue to shape the future of this industry.
Market Scope |
|
Report Coverage |
Details |
Page number |
202 |
Base year |
2023 |
Historic period |
2018-2022 |
Forecast period |
2024-2028 |
Growth momentum & CAGR |
Accelerate at a CAGR of 4.36% |
Market growth 2024-2028 |
USD 1.15 billion |
Market structure |
Fragmented |
YoY growth 2023-2024(%) |
4.11 |
Regional analysis |
North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa |
Performing market contribution |
North America at 29% |
Key countries |
US, Germany, China, UK, and Japan |
Competitive landscape |
Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks |
Key companies profiled |
Advantech Co. Ltd., ARBOR Technology Corp., Bluebird Inc., Caterpillar Inc., CipherLab Co. Ltd., Datalogic SpA, DT Research Inc., Handheld Group AB, Honeywell International Inc., JLT Mobile Computers AB, KYOCERA Corp., MilDef Group AB, MiTAC Holdings Corp., Panasonic Holdings Corp., RUGGED SCIENCE, Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Touchstar Plc, Unitech Computer Co. Ltd., WIDEUM SOLUTIONS S.L., and Zebra Technologies Corp. |
Market dynamics |
Parent market analysis, market trends, market growth analysis, market research and growth, Market forecasting, market forecast, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, Market growth and Forecasting, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, Market condition analysis for forecast period. |
Customization purview |
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1 Executive Summary
2 Market Landscape
3 Market Sizing
4 Historic Market Size
5 Five Forces Analysis
6 Market Segmentation by Type
7 Market Segmentation by Product
8 Market Segmentation by End-user
9 Customer Landscape
10 Geographic Landscape
11 Drivers, Challenges, and Opportunity/Restraints
12 Competitive Landscape
13 Competitive Analysis
14 Appendix
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