We really liked the Motorola Defy+ when we reviewed it because it offers some degree of ruggedization without being ugly or unwieldy. It’s also good value for money, with around £240 ($370) (contract free) buying you an Android handset with a 3.7-inch Gorilla Glass LCD 854×480 (265ppi) display, 1GHz single-core TI OMAP3620 SoC, 512MB of RAM, 2GB of built-in storage and a 5-megapixel rear camera.
Motorola hot on the heals of the success of the Defy+ has introduced the Defy+ JCB Edition. Those unfamiliar with JCB, it’s a construction equipment and heavy machinery manufacturer. Compared to the standard Defy+, the JCB edition wraps the device with a visco-elastic protective sleeve for a stronger exterior, which should handle drops and pressure better. Apparently the skin automatically stiffens on impact and remains flexible in normal use. The special edition also includes a number of apps targeted to builders, engineers and DIY enthusiasts. The apps include a theodolite, spirit level, torch and decibel meter.
Of course the Defy+ JCB edition remains water, scratch and dust resistant, while all the other specs are exactly the same as the standard Defy+. It’s also still shipping with Android 2.3 Gingerbread, while one would hope for an Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich update to come soon. The Defy+ JCB Edition sells for around £260 ($400),
Anyone looking for a smaller, more economical, but still rugged device should look up the new Defy Mini, with 3.2-inch Gorilla Glass display, 600Mhz processor and a £175 ($270) price tag.
