Smartphone durability is an increasingly essential factor for consumers, but what does that mean for small business owners who rely on these devices daily? A recent elaboration from Google’s team behind the Pixel phones dives into the rigorous testing and design philosophy that underpins the durability of their products, showcasing key insights that can assist small business owners in making informed purchasing decisions.
Ajay, a key player in the Pixel design team, highlighted the importance of feedback on the “design margin” of the phones. This concept refers to how well a device can withstand drops and rough usage beyond typical conditions. Ajay emphasized the need for phones to endure more than the average wear and tear they’re likely to face. “For example, we ask, ‘How many more drops can this phone take? If 90% of users drop their phones a certain number of times a year, how can we build something that survives even more than that?’ And these decisions are especially important as we build phones to last even longer,” he explained.
What does this mean for small business owners? Choosing a smartphone with proven durability can lead to fewer repairs and replacements, ultimately saving time and money. With employees often multitasking and in various environments, a device that withstands physical stress can reduce downtime and dependency on technical support.
Importantly, Google’s testing methods are based on real-life scenarios rather than theoretical ones. The team conducts evaluations at high altitudes, simulating conditions that might arise if a device is transported in an unpressurized aircraft. Ajay said, “We test for things like high altitude — what happens to our phones at 14,000 feet, for instance.” Although niche, this testing ensures a higher level of resilience in unpredictable situations.
This level of detail extends to temperature variation as well. The Pixel devices are tested to handle extremes from -30ºC (-22ºF) to 75ºC (167ºF). This is particularly crucial for small business owners who might work in varying climates or environments, enabling them to trust that their devices will perform consistently whether weathering the summer sun or facing winter chills.
Moreover, in light of a practical, albeit unusual, situation where a Pixel 6a phone was left outside for six months, Ajay noted that despite the lack of snow testing, the phone’s ingress protection rating for water and dust resistance contributed to its survival. “So the phones are relatively sealed from the elements, the snow cover kept them relatively protected, and the charging circuit was most likely disabled, saving the battery,” he explained.
For small business owners, these insights are pivotal. Understanding the specifications and testing practices can steer businesses toward choosing phones that align with their operational demands, minimizing potential losses from equipment failure.
While the high durability of the Pixel phones is reassuring, Ajay humorously pointed out that such robustness shouldn’t encourage reckless behavior. “I wouldn’t recommend it,” he said regarding the idea of throwing phones against walls. However, the unexpected survival of a device in an adverse scenario can bring joy and delight when, for instance, an employee’s phone emerges unscathed after a drop.
All things considered, the advancements in smartphone technology and testing pave the way for products that are not only built to last but are also catered to dynamic business environments. Small business owners can leverage these insights to make strategic purchases, ensuring their workforce is equipped with reliable technology capable of keeping pace with their demanding roles.
For further details on Google’s product testing and design approach, you can visit the original post here. With this knowledge in hand, small business owners are better positioned to invest in the right technology that meets their operational needs while maintaining user satisfaction.
Image Via Google Pixel
