CONVOY (SCH-U640)
SAMSUNG | First-generation rugged phone
Retail | $118
Year | Designed in 2007 and Released in 2009
The Samsung Convoy SCH-U640 is a rugged and reliable mobile device designed for the US market and tailored to Verizon Wireless' requirements. This military-spec tough push-to-talk phone offers unmatched durability and functionality.
With its robust construction, the Samsung Convoy withstands extreme conditions, including shock, dust, vibration, salt fog, humidity, solar radiation, altitude, and low/high-temperature storage. It ensures reliability in various environments like construction sites, fields, and outdoor adventures.
THE FIRST MILITARY-GRADED RUGGED CLAMSHELL PHONE FROM SAMSUNG
Design Challenge
Develop a robust and durable folder phone that establishes Samsung as a prominent player in the rugged phone market, effectively competing with other offerings in the US market.
In response to Verizon's request, the LA Design Lab team at Samsung HQ embarked on creating a device specifically tailored for the US market, ensuring it meets the unique requirements of American consumers.
Thoroughly investigate competitor products, identifying their weaknesses and pain points, while conducting extensive research to gain insights into the specific needs and preferences of blue-collar customers.
Contribution
The project commenced with an internal competition among three designers within the department, each tasked with visually interpreting the concept of "Rugged." Recognizing the cultural differences in the perception of ruggedness, we brainstormed to determine the appropriate balance of visual and tactile ruggedness that would resonate with American consumers.
My specific focus was on enhancing the physical and tactile experience of using a rugged mobile phone. To gain valuable insights, I conducted interviews with construction workers, elders, and disabled users. It became apparent that the existing Samsung phone models in the US market were deemed too sleek, small, and fashionable for their needs. They expressed a desire for larger physical keys, an easy-to-grab and open form factor, affordability, and a device built to withstand accidental drops and impacts.
Achievements
Emerging victorious in the internal department competition, the Convoy design triumphed as the chosen direction by Verizon buyers.
Collaborating closely with two mechanical engineers based in LA and an engineering team located in South Korea, we dedicated extensive hours to bring the vision to life.
The Convoy became an integral part of Samsung's rugged phone series, establishing a legacy that continues to this day. Its fourth generation was successfully launched in 2018, solidifying its position as a prominent offering in the market.
Embarking on a new chapter, this achievement evokes the iconic line, "I am your father," symbolizing the birth of an impressive and enduring legacy.
FORM
Crafted with an encompassing rounded form, blending aesthetics with ruggedized elements to create a visually pleasing and physically resilient design.
FUNCTION
The Samsung Convoy SCH-U640 is a rugged phone designed for durability in challenging conditions. It is resistant to shock, dust, vibration, salt fog, humidity, solar radiation, and extreme temperatures. With large numeric keys, music control keys, and external push-to-talk (PTT) keys, it offers convenient functionality similar to a walkie-talkie. T he device also features a large external speaker for loud music playback and clear speakerphone calls. It is a reliable and user-friendly choice for those in need of a durable mobile solution.
QUALITY
Exemplifying durability and reliability, the device adheres to the rigorous US military standard of MIL-STD-810F, guaranteeing its long-lasting quality and robustness.
The Convoy series, spanning from 2009 to 2016, represents a remarkable evolution in Samsung's folder phone lineup. It stood as one of the most enduring and coveted mobile device series in the highly competitive US market, catering to a distinct and sizable target audience.
CREDIT: Created with the internal engineering teams based in Los Angeles and South Korea under the guidance of a studio manager. Product Ownership and Copyrighted by Samsung.