The world’s first smartphone that can detect toxic chemicals in the air has been unveiled.
Cat has launched a smartphone called the S61 that can detect the presence of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Common sources of VOCs include paints, solvents, carpets, furniture and cleaning products, and they have been linked to a range of health issues.
The handset’s air quality measurements are thanks to an on-board sensor from Swiss-firm Sensirion that can smell the particles in the atmosphere.
It also features an integrated thermal imaging camera with enhanced software for greater image contrast and an expanded temperature range to 400°C (752°F).
The handset, which will cost £799 (€899 / $999), will be available to order from the company’s website and retailers around the world in the next few months.
Construction workers have a new lifeline to help protect them from exposure to deadly industrial chemicals. Cat has launched a smartphone called the S61 that can detect the presence of Volatile Organic Compounds
The S61 will be launched at the Mobile World Congress, taking place in Barcelona from February 26 to March 1.
It alerts users to high levels of the air pollutants, allowing them to make timely decisions like opening a window to improve ventilation or taking a break.
The sensor can also provide humidity and current temperature readings.
It also comes with an upgraded standard camera, which will now take pictures in high definition.
In a written statement Peter Stephens, CEO of Bullitt Group, global mobile device licensee for Caterpillar, said: ‘We know that 60 per cent of Cat S60 customers use the integrated thermal camera at least once per week.
‘The temperature and resolution improvements found in the new Cat S61 will open up thermal imaging to many more users and use cases.
‘Packing in even more genuinely useful tools of the trade means there’s simply no other smartphone out there that can do everything the S61 can.
‘We are incredibly proud of it.’
The Cat S61 comes with laser assisted distance measurement.
This can measure point-to-point distances up to 10m (30 feet), then calculate area, and switch between Metric and Imperial measurement.
All data is saved within the image so alternative measurement estimates can be taken or adjustments made without returning to the site.
Common sources of VOCs include paints, solvents, carpets, furniture and cleaning products, all found in the working environments of Cat phone users, the firm says. The is built to survive repeated drops onto concrete from 1.8m (six feet) and can withstand cold and heat
The Cat S61’s air quality measurements are thank to an on-board sensor from Swiss-firm Sensirion. It alerts users to high levels of the air pollutants, allowing them to make timely decisions like opening a window to improve ventilation or taking a break
These kinds of features are highly valued by Cat phones customers, according to the construction specialist.
Electricians, for example, can use thermal imaging to analyse a fuse box or wiring system, and the laser assisted distance measurement to estimate how much cable is required for the job.
They can also live stream results back to base should they need further advice from a colleague.
The Cat S61 has a large 5.2′ (13 cm) full HD screen protected by Gorilla Glass 5 and optimised for outdoor use.
It is IP68 dustproof and waterproof at up to three metres (ten feet) depth for one hour.
It is built to survive repeated drops onto concrete from 1.8m (six feet).