Motorola DEFY+ JCB Edition

Available now
17th January 2012

Exclusively launched in the UK, the Motorola DEFY+ JCB Edition takes the existing DEFY+ and toughens it up further, and then adds some new applications suitable for those who work in demanding conditions.

The underlying hardware is unchanged from the standard DEFY+. This is an Android 2.3 smartphone with a dual-core 1 GHz processor, 512MB of RAM, a 5 megapixel camera and a 3.7" 480 x 854 pixel display coated with Gorilla Glass. It also has 3.5G, WiFi and GPS plus everything that every other Android phone has.

The standard DEFY+ is built to IP67 standards, so it is already pretty tough. The JCB Edition adds an additional protective sleeve to make the DEFY+ tougher and easier to grab hold of. It also gives the JCB Edition a pleasingly rugged look.

It is worth noting though that the screen does not receive any additional protection, and one frequent criticism of the original DEFY was that the display would still break in certain circumstances. Although the Gorilla Glass coating is scratch resistant and quite durable, the problem is that a large 3.7" display like is still quite easy to destroy. For example, a sharp object pressed hard against the display would certainly damage it, and quite possibly crack it. This isn't really a weakness or flaw in the design, it is just a fact of life.. if you want a tougher phone than this, then you will have to put up with a lot less functionality.

There are also a number of bespoke applications built in, including a sound meter, unit converter, theodolite, spirit level and torch plus a locator for DIY stores. The idea is that in many circumstances the DEFY+ can be used as a tool instead of carrying around lots of equipment.

One little-used feature of modern phones is PTT (Push To Talk) which allows the DEFY+ to be used like a walkie-talkie, either for one-on-one communications or in a group. One key thing missing is video calling, which could be handy for showing things in real time.

The DEFY+ JCB edition has 2GB of internal memory plus a 2GB card in the box and a large 1700 mAh battery that can give over 7 hours of talktime and 16 days standby time. It also ships with a vehicle charger with an extra long curly cable, and is available for around £260 SIM-free from retailers in the UK.