The rugged phones market size is projected to reach US$ 5.69 billion by 2031 from US$ 2.98 billion in 2023. The market is expected to register a CAGR of 8.40% during 2023–2031. The rise of new technologies, such as AI and IoT and developments in communication technologies are likely to remain a key trend in the market.
The demand for rugged mobile phones for mission-critical and non-critical communication in areas such as transportation and logistics, manufacturing and construction, and retail and warehousing is growing rapidly. Rugged smartphones are being adopted over simple consumer-grade mobile phones due to their improved safety features, durable design, and feature phones created specifically for task workforces working in demanding environments. Equipping task/field workers with smart and innovative rugged phones enables efficient communication among personnel while also increasing overall operational productivity in a variety of demanding locations. Furthermore, the increasing trend of digitalization across sectors, as well as developments in communication technologies such as 5G, are likely to drive the global rugged phones market over the forecast period.
Rugged phones are devices that have been specially designed and tested to satisfy military requirements, allowing them to endure high temperatures, immersion, shocks, and other conditions. With casings or shells that are durable enough to withstand drops on hard surfaces. They have great drop, dust, and water resistance ratings, as well as an outstanding battery life. They are appropriate for those who work in hard conditions, such as building sites, roads, coal mines, wood factories, farms, outdoor locations, long-distance transit, and so on.
The demand for connected devices and reliable network technologies is increasing among industrial customers worldwide. While communication network technologies like 2G, 3G, and 4G are already established, the growing complexity of electronic systems and the integration of advanced technologies in smartphones are driving the need for further improvements in network capacity, latency, and coverage. As a result, 5G, a fast-emerging wireless technology, is offering promising performance enhancements over existing technologies. Several key countries, including South Korea, Germany, China, the UK, and the US, have already successfully deployed 5G networks. Notably, China has activated 5G networks in selected cities through major telecom operators like China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. It is projected that approximately 36% of mobile users in China will be using 5G by 2025.
Similarly, South Korea has also initiated 5G services through operators like SK Telecom and Korea Telecom. Compared to existing wireless network technologies, 5G is expected to provide enhanced network capacity, high coverage, improved latency, and better battery life, which are anticipated to drive its penetration over the forecast period. Due to the growth outlook of 5G technology, companies in the global rugged phones market have begun integrating 5G capabilities into some of their models to meet the increasing demand and differentiate their offerings from competitors. Key players in this market, such as Blackview, OUKITEL, and Ulefone Mobile, have already introduced 5G-enabled phones, while other companies are also exploring 5G capabilities to include in their products in the coming years based on customer requirements for advanced functionality. Consequently, 5G is expected to complement the growth of the rugged phones market during the forecast period.
AI-enabled devices are all over the place. According to Simpli Learn, AI technology is used in some form or another in over 77% of today's electronics. According to Eurostat, by 2021, 29% of EU firms deployed Internet of Things devices to keep their premises secure. Moreover, Rugged mobile computers can gather and send data from numerous sensors and devices in the field regarding IoT. These mobiles may be fitted with specific data collection and analysis software, making it more straightforward to monitor and manage IoT devices remotely. For instance, a rugged mobile can be used to track the whereabouts of a fleet of cars, operate industrial machinery, and check the temperature and humidity levels in a warehouse.
Rugged mobiles can also be integrated with AI devices for safety. Various authorities are using collaborated rugged mobiles for school safety, government buildings, and other public spaces. For instance, in October 2023, KYOCERA collaborated with three technology developers on an innovative solution to improve safety in schools, government buildings, and other public spaces. Kyocera's ultra-rugged mobile technology (Android smartphones and tablets); Omni-Response 360° sensory technology for optimal situational awareness with a comprehensive dashboard; ZeroEyes AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software; and Cradlepoint networks that connect sites, vehicles, IoT technology, and safety personnel comprise the school safety solution. Thus, the rise of new technologies, such as AI and IoT, is expected to offer lucrative opportunities for market growth.
Key segments that contributed to the derivation of the rugged phones market analysis are type, screen size, and end user.
The geographic scope of the rugged phones market report is mainly divided into five regions: North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and South & Central America.
The manufacturing and healthcare industries’ increasing use of rugged mobiles is anticipated to fuel the market expansion in terms of revenue in North America. Additionally, the market’s revenue growth is being driven by the rising demand for public safety, privacy, and government data. Additionally, a considerable portion of the market’s revenue growth is anticipated to be driven by the region’s expanded manufacturing capacity. Moreover, several players in the US are expanding their portfolio in rugged mobiles. For instance, in September 2022, Samsung expanded its rugged portfolio in the US by launching the Galaxy XCover6 Pro smartphone and Galaxy Tab Active4 Pro tablet. Both gadgets are made to withstand hostile situations. To survive severe altitudes, temperatures, vibration, and humidity, they are both MIL-STD-810Hii compliant. The Galaxy Tab Active4 Pro, the Galaxy XCover6 Pro, and the integrated S Pen are all IP68-rated for dust and water protection.
The regional trends and factors influencing the Rugged Phones Market throughout the forecast period have been thoroughly explained by the analysts at Insight Partners. This section also discusses Rugged Phones Market segments and geography across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and South and Central America.
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Market size in 2023 | US$ 2.98 Billion |
| Market Size by 2031 | US$ 5.69 Billion |
| Global CAGR (2023 - 2031) | 8.4% |
| Historical Data | 2021-2022 |
| Forecast period | 2024-2031 |
| Segments Covered |
By Type
|
| Regions and Countries Covered | North America
|
| Market leaders and key company profiles |
The Rugged Phones Market market is growing rapidly, driven by increasing end-user demand due to factors such as evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and greater awareness of the product's benefits. As demand rises, businesses are expanding their offerings, innovating to meet consumer needs, and capitalizing on emerging trends, which further fuels market growth.
Market players density refers to the distribution of firms or companies operating within a particular market or industry. It indicates how many competitors (market players) are present in a given market space relative to its size or total market value.
Major Companies operating in the Rugged Phones Market are:
Disclaimer: The companies listed above are not ranked in any particular order.
The rugged phones market is evaluated by gathering qualitative and quantitative data post primary and secondary research, which includes important corporate publications, association data, and databases. A few of the developments in the rugged phones market are listed below:
(Source: Nokia, Press Release, September 2023)
The “Rugged Phones Market Size and Forecast (2021–2031)” report provides a detailed analysis of the market covering below areas:
Expanding 5G deployments and increasing demand in various industries are driving the market.
Developments in communication technologies are key trends in the market.
Blackview, Caterpillar, Kyocera, OUKITEL, Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, AGM Mobile, Sonim Technologies Inc., Ulefone Mobile, Unitech Electronics Co., LTD., and Zebra Technologies Corp. are major players in the market.
The market is expected to reach a value of US$ 5.69 billion by 2031.
The market is anticipated to record a CAGR of 8.40% during 2023–2031.