French retailer AMG Pro, which specialises in tactical equipment, has listed two new rugged devices from Crosscall: the Core X7 smartphone and an as-yet-unnamed rugged tablet. Crosscall, itself a French company, is known for producing durable mobile devices designed for extreme environments, and these latest offerings appear to continue that tradition. The listings, first spotted by GSMArena, reveal key specifications and hint at a launch that could appeal to professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Crosscall Core X7: A Rugged Smartphone Built for Extremes
The Crosscall Core X7 is the star of the show, boasting an impressive array of durability features that go beyond typical IP ratings. According to the retailer’s listing, the phone can survive submersion in up to 2 metres of water for 30 minutes, earning it an IPX8 rating. What sets it apart is its ability to withstand salt water, a claim that most IP-rated phones avoid. Additionally, the device is dust-tight (IP6X) and can resist hot water jets (IP69K), making it suitable for use in demanding industrial or outdoor settings.
Military-Grade Durability
The Core X7 has been drop-tested 300 times from a height of 1.2 metres, in accordance with the MIL-STD-810H standard. Crosscall claims that the phone can actually survive falls from 2 metres onto hard surfaces, although the exact conditions of this test are not specified. This level of ruggedness is rare in consumer smartphones and positions the Core X7 as a serious tool for those who work in construction, logistics, or emergency services.
Display and Performance
While the retailer listing does not divulge every detail, it does mention a 6.1-inch display with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels. The screen is likely to be protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, given Crosscall’s history of using toughened glass in its devices. Under the hood, the Core X7 is expected to be powered by a mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset, possibly the Snapdragon 695 or 6 Gen 1, paired with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. A microSD card slot is also likely present for expandable storage.
Battery life is a crucial aspect of any rugged phone, and the Core X7 does not disappoint. It is listed with a 5,000mAh battery, which should easily last a full day of heavy use. The phone supports fast charging, although the exact wattage is not specified. Crosscall has a reputation for long-lasting batteries, and the Core X7 seems to uphold that tradition.
Camera and Software
The camera setup on the Core X7 is said to include a 48MP main sensor, accompanied by an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 2MP depth sensor. For selfies, there is a 13MP front-facing camera. While these specifications are not groundbreaking, they are respectable for a rugged device, where durability often takes precedence over imaging prowess. The phone is expected to run Android 13 out of the box, with Crosscall’s custom skin on top, which includes additional features for outdoor use, such as a barometer, compass, and SOS button.
Design and Additional Features
Measuring 161 x 77 x 11.5mm and weighing around 230g, the Core X7 is chunky but manageable. It features a textured back for better grip, and physical buttons for power and volume that are designed to be easy to use with gloves. The device also includes a programmable side key, which can be assigned to specific functions like push-to-talk or launching the camera. Connectivity options include 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, and a USB-C port. There is also a 3.5mm headphone jack, a rarity in modern smartphones, which will be appreciated by users who rely on wired headsets.
One of the standout features of Crosscall phones is their compatibility with the X-Link ecosystem, a range of accessories that attach magnetically to the back of the device. These include extended batteries, vehicle mounts, and action camera adapters. The Core X7 is expected to support this ecosystem, enhancing its versatility.
Rugged Tablet: A Companion for the Field
Alongside the Core X7, AMG Pro has listed a rugged tablet from Crosscall, though the name is not explicitly mentioned. Based on Crosscall’s naming conventions, it could be called the Core T7 or simply the Crosscall T7. The tablet is designed to complement the phone, offering a larger screen for tasks that require more real estate, such as mapping, logistics management, or field reporting.
Specifications and Features
The tablet is listed with a 10.1-inch display, likely with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. It is expected to be powered by the same Snapdragon chipset as the Core X7, ensuring consistent performance across devices. RAM and storage options are not detailed, but a 4GB/64GB configuration is plausible, with microSD expansion.
Durability is on par with the phone: the tablet is IP68-rated for water and dust resistance, and it meets MIL-STD-810H standards for drop and shock resistance. It also features a user-replaceable battery, a common trait among rugged tablets, which allows for extended use in the field without access to a charger. The battery capacity is not specified, but it is likely to be around 8,000mAh.
The tablet includes a range of connectivity options, including 4G LTE (5G may be optional), Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and GPS. It also has a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a docking connector for use with vehicle mounts or desk docks. A rear camera (likely 13MP) and a front-facing camera (5MP) are also present for video calls and documentation.
Accessories and Use Cases
Crosscall is known for its ecosystem of accessories, and the tablet is no exception. It supports the X-Link system, allowing users to attach accessories such as a kickstand, a hand strap, or a vehicle mount. These accessories make the tablet more versatile for different work environments, from construction sites to warehouses.
The tablet is likely to run Android 13 and include Crosscall’s suite of productivity apps, as well as a dedicated SOS button and a programmable key. It is expected to be available in a Wi-Fi-only version and a cellular version for those who need connectivity on the go.
Pricing and Availability
AMG Pro has listed the Crosscall Core X7 at a price of €599 (approximately $650), while the rugged tablet is priced at €799 (around $870). These prices are in line with Crosscall’s previous offerings, which typically command a premium for their durability and specialised features. The listings suggest that the devices will be available in France initially, with a broader European rollout to follow. Crosscall has not officially announced the devices, so details may change before launch.
The retailer’s page also mentions that the devices will be available in a single colour option: black. This is typical for rugged devices, which prioritise functionality over aesthetics. The listings include a release date of mid-November, although this has not been confirmed by Crosscall.
Crosscall’s Reputation in the Rugged Market
Crosscall has carved a niche for itself in the rugged device market, particularly in Europe. The company was founded in 2009 and is based in Aix-en-Provence, France. It focuses on designing products that can withstand harsh conditions, and it has a strong following among professionals in industries such as construction, security, and outdoor recreation. Crosscall devices are also used by emergency services and military personnel in some countries.
One of the key differentiators for Crosscall is its commitment to repairability. The company designs its devices to be easily opened and repaired, with replaceable batteries and modular components. This approach extends the lifespan of the devices and reduces electronic waste, aligning with the principles of the circular economy. The Core X7 and the rugged tablet are likely to follow this philosophy, with user-replaceable batteries and accessible parts.
Another aspect is Crosscall’s focus on software updates. The company promises regular security patches and Android version upgrades for its devices, although the exact duration of support for the new models is not yet known. Crosscall has a good track record in this regard, often providing updates for three to four years.
Competition and Market Context
The rugged smartphone and tablet market is relatively niche but competitive. Key players include Samsung with its Galaxy XCover series, CAT with its S-series, and Ulefone with its Armor series. These brands offer similar durability features, but Crosscall often stands out with its accessory ecosystem and repairability. The Core X7’s IP69K rating and saltwater resistance give it an edge over some competitors, particularly for users who work in marine environments.
In the tablet space, rugged options are less common. Samsung offers the Galaxy Tab Active series, and Panasonic has its Toughbook line, but these are often more expensive and aimed at enterprise customers. Crosscall’s tablet could fill a gap for smaller businesses and individual professionals who need a durable tablet without the enterprise price tag.
The pricing of the Core X7 and the tablet places them in the mid-to-high range for rugged devices. While they are more expensive than mainstream smartphones and tablets, the added durability and specialised features justify the cost for the target audience. It remains to be seen how the market will respond, but Crosscall has a loyal customer base that is likely to be interested.
What We Still Don’t Know
While the retailer listings provide a good overview, there are still several unknowns. The exact chipset, display technology, and camera details for both devices have not been confirmed. The tablet’s name and full specifications are also unclear. Additionally, Crosscall has not officially announced the devices, so the final specifications and pricing may differ from the retailer’s listing.
We also don’t know the software update policy or the availability of accessories at launch. Crosscall typically announces its devices with a press release and detailed specifications, so we can expect more information in the coming weeks. The mid-November release date mentioned by the retailer suggests that an official announcement is imminent.
Conclusion
The Crosscall Core X7 and the rugged tablet look set to be worthy additions to the company’s lineup. With impressive durability ratings, practical features, and a focus on repairability, they cater to a specific but important segment of the market. As the devices surface at AMG Pro, anticipation is building for an official launch. For those in need of a phone or tablet that can handle the toughest conditions, these Crosscall devices are worth keeping an eye on.
