OS Android-Based Solutions at TouchStar: The Benefits
07 June 2022
A history of Windows vs
Android operating systems
Microsoft’s
Windows CE was always a popular choice for businesses using rugged and other
mobile devices across their operations. Unfortunately, in June 2018, Microsoft
decided to end all support for the platform and businesses had to find an
alternative to transition to. This is where Android stepped in.
Although it
had been an option for many years, Android had often been a second choice but
is quickly becoming the best choice of operating system on the market. Mainly
known for its use in the consumer market, there have been some teething
problems when rolling out the new operating system, but as time goes on, Android
implementation becomes easier, quicker and a much more resilient option for
businesses.
The benefits of using an
Android operating system
When it comes to using Android within a warehouse
or manufacturing environment, the operating
system possesses a number of benefits that enables it to deliver complete and
reliable warehouse support.
Flexibility
One of its major benefits is the level of flexibility
offered to businesses. The Android OS can be highly customised to meet the
requirements of the environment or sector, making it a fully-functional and
bespoke solution. Its adaptability ensures that any business looking to implement
Android within their operations will receive a service that is tailored to
them, and they do not have to fit their operations and requirements within set
parameters.
The high level of flexibility that Android operating systems
offer also applies to the user interface, not just the capabilities. The
interface can also be tailored to each business by ensuring ley functionality
is clearly signposted, making common tasks more accessible and quicker to
complete. The interfaces can also be adapted to include bigger buttons for jobs
which require gloves so warehouse or cold storage workers can easily work the
device.
User-friendly
Another benefit of introducing Android is its popularity
within the consumer market and is therefore for many, extremely familiar. Users
are more likely to be able to use the Android-configured hardware with ease due
to their personal experience. This means that there is likely to be less
training required for new users, which saves both time and money for the
business, allowing staff to start working quicker.
Continuous development
The intuitive platform is also continuously updated,
ensuring the latest technology, developments and resources are always there for
businesses to use. This can help speed up the devices as well as allow for new capabilities
to be taken advantage of such as a more seamless user experience and the
addition of new security updates. Any additional operating system updates help
the hardware to run smoother and more effectively, reducing potential downtime
and issues for the business.
Here at TouchStar, we’ve continued to see more applications
released for warehouse environments on rugged Android devices, as well as the
ongoing support for these software deployments.
For our clients, the flexibility and adaptable nature of
Android allow us to optimise their experience with our platform to ensure they
can operate effectively, including extended battery life, high-speed scanning,
extended Wi-Fi coverage and specialist back-office connectivity.
Find out more
If you’re looking to change your operating system to Android
and are looking for support, we have you covered. We’re here to transform your
operations with rugged Android devices by providing a robust support structure,
covering any recently launched models until 2030 as a minimum. You can rest
assured that you’ll receive all the help from TouchStar you may need.
To find out more about our Android solutions and how they
could benefit your business, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR - PETER MARSH
Peter joined TouchStar (formally Belgravium) in a sales manager role in 2001. Prior to joining the company, Peter held Partner and National Sales Manager roles within the parcel and logistics industries. In 2011 Peter was promoted to Sales Director and is now actively involved in promoting the value of TouchStar’s Rugged Mobile Computing solutions to the warehouse, logistics, manufacturing and field service industries. When not involved in the business, Peter is a keen and enthusiastic football and cricket fan.