But the Android device in a splash-proof and dust-proof plastic housing (protection class IP 67) with aluminium-reinforced sides is extremely robust and does not need an extra protective cover either in the jersey pocket or mounted on the handlebars. It weighs 170 grams, around half as much as comparable smartphones with a 4-inch display; it is almost as long as an iPhone 5, around one centimetre wider and twice as thick (126 x 70 x 15 millimetres), so it fits easily into any jersey pocket. A special feature of the 325 euro all-weather device is that two SIM cards can be used in parallel and switching is very easy.
The battery life is also commendable; the device records training rides for up to eight hours using corresponding apps such as Strava, including the values from the heart rate or cadence monitors docked via Bluetooth. However, the internal memory of four gigabytes is somewhat small, which is why the number of apps that can be saved is limited. Saving to an optional SD card is not possible. The integrated five-megapixel camera takes decent pictures, but has to make do without a switchable photo light. In addition, condensation forms between the cover and the lens if the device is in your jersey pocket during training. Although this can be dried again, it may prevent you from taking spontaneous snapshots.
PLUS robust; waterproof up to 1.5 m; dustproof; two SIM card slots; powerful battery; price
MINUS Small internal memory; no photo light
Reference/Info www.catphones.com
Price 325 Euro (without contract)
