Motorola on Monday introduced the first Android phone to run on push-to-talk iDEN networks from Sprint Nextel and Southern Linc.
Phones running on iDEN networks are typically utilitarian devices used in construction or similar industries. While the Motorola i1 was built to withstand rough use, it also has a big touchscreen and looks similar to many other smartphones. IDEN is a proprietary technology invented by Motorola that offers phone users an instant talk feature similar to walkie talkies.
The i1 meets a military specification called 810F, meaning it is resistant to blowing rain, dust, shock vibration, extreme temperature, salt fog, humidity and low pressure.
