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5 Ways Rugged Tablets are Solving the Major Challenges of Field Service

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Unlike traditional enclosed workspaces, field service and T&L operations grapple with a unique challenge: sustaining workforce visibility. As field and transportation teams venture into farther locations, mainstream solutions fail to sustain end-to-end visibility, causing communication breakdowns, delays, and worker stress. Zebra’s latest Field Service Vision Study depicts the growing push for stronger visibility as real-time locationing, blockchain, and 5G technologies drive major field operation investments. Ultra-durable technologies have emerged to support these initiatives, yet rugged tablets like Zebra’s L10 Android Tablet, have proved to go a step farther than popular mobile devices by addressing the following challenges:

  1. Certify customer expectations are met at point of service. Zebra rugged XPAD tablets are equipped with intelligent scanners and high-resolution cameras to quickly capture data to verify shipments and tasks were completed successfully within their stipulated timeframes.
  2. Pinpoint worker location. Remote work has become a foundational part of the post-pandemic world. Rugged tablets integrate locationing software that targets team-members for better accountability and resource planning. Furthermore, the L10’s 13MP rear camera facilitates split-second capture for proof of condition/deliver/service directly on site.
  3. Update task completion in real-time. Flexible connectivity options incorporating NFC, WiFi, cellular networking, 5G, and other options keep teams connected to in-office teams, so statuses can be regularly updated in real-time of any changes and bottlenecks.
  4. Assign and prioritize routes based on outside notifications. When changes happen, rugged tablets enable quick notification dispersion thanks to flexible connectivity options, keeping entire teams unified to overcome changes. Moreover, drivers can see notification and routing updates on their vehicle mounted tablets at a glance thanks to a bigger screen, preventing accidents.
  5. Protect communication channels despite increased distances. Enterprise-grade devices are able to sustain exposure to harsh environments such as snowy temperatures and high heat. This averts device breakdowns while on the road, securing continuous performance for sustained workflow visibility.

Elevated efficiency fits on the field and anywhere else you need it.

Following a line of previous flexible devices, Zebra’s Rugged Tablets further minimize deployment stress by adapting to high-demand workflows both in and out of the warehouse, facilitating standardization across the supply chain. Harness the power of maximized workflow visibility along with:

  • Greater data security backed by Android’s recurring updates and security patches.
  • Up to 24 hours of battery power delivered through hot-swappable batteries.
  • Lightweight magnesium frame to withstand subzero and heat exposure.
  • Long-range WiFi connectivity supported by Zebra’s WorryFree WiFi DNA application.

Dive into the future of expanded field visibility with Zebra’s Rugged Tablets with Avalon’s new digital experience.

For more information on Zebra’s Rugged Tablets, contact Avalon’s modernization experts for a free demo.

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Is your durable technology rugged enough for field service?

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Imagine one day being able to offer same-day delivery across the country, from California to New York. For many transportation and logistics teams, this imagination has become a nightmarish reality. While fast delivery timeframes can bolster customer loyalty, last mile delivery is still considered the most inefficient step of the whole supply chain for over half of T&L companies. Inefficiency often stems from:

  • Lack of status visibility
  • Fluctuating labor and fuel costs
  • Inadequate delivery routing
  • Sudden changes such as vehicle breakdowns, product shortages, etc.

Studies show that 49% of global T&L companies cite outdated technology as a common factor hindering last mile efficiency, resulting in delays, missed sales, and lost customers. As a result. Over 58% of field operations see mobility investment as a top priority, yet when it comes to field services, durability must extend beyond design.

Assessing functional durability in your field-ready devices

Field teams have little time or money for additional repair expenses and slowed processing power, which is why suitable enterprise-grade technologies should incorporate the following strengths.

  1. Secured data storage – Filed teams must be able to access data remotely which means durable cybersecurity is crucial to maintain accessibility without risking breaches. Unlike Windows Mobile, Android for Enterprise equips mobile devices with government-grade protection and recurring security patches to prevent leaks.
  2. Long-range connectivity – High speed connectivity and flexible network options allow teams to remain connected to the rest of the supply chain while on the road. Zebra’s Workforce Connect bypasses the need for additional telecom services, enabling two-way communication and messaging via your enterprise device.
  3. Real-time status insight – Because more customers expect to track orders in near real-time, tracking technologies such as RFID locationing have become popular to pinpoint location of in-transit orders.
  4. Ultra-rugged design – Lastly, mobile devices must continue to be rugged, handling drops, dust, exposure to heat and cold, humidity and scratches without affecting performance. Devices such as Zebra’s Rugged Tablets exemplify superior durability by adapting to various different environments without compromising productivity.

As a Zebra Premier Solutions Partner, Avalon empowers field teams with purpose-built field-ready technologies through the GO Zebra Trade-In Program. Upgrade your mobile device from any manufacturer before December 31st and get cash rebates up to $250 per handheld device towards your upgrade. Simply…

  1. Buy your new mobile device
  2. Turn in your reclaim form
  3. Trade in outdated devices for cash rebates

Download the program details for the full list of eligible devices.

Empower your field teams with mobility solutions built to thrive in the last mile and beyond. Contact Avalon today for a free assessment of your mobile devices to get started.

 

 

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Why Connectivity has become the key to Maintaining Undisrupted Productivity

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While the healthcare crisis certainly affected supply chains worldwide, it did not replace previous challenges and risks within warehousing. For example, over 1000 data breaches still took place in 2020, costing as much as $500,000 per incident. Labor turnover rates continued to reshape distribution centers, and as expected, the demand for fast order fulfillment has not relented. Maintaining undisrupted productivity continues to be a challenge faced by small and large warehouses alike. To address these issues, businesses are encouraged to unify their teams through:

  • Reliable digitization since it increases data availability across the supply chain while diminishing the risks of manual data entry errors. Digitized storage allows teams to update inventory counts, manage incoming shipments, and verify outbound orders in real time through a handheld device, so when changes do occur, the whole workforce can be readily notified and connected. This helps teams quickly adapt to disruptions without impacting productivity in and out of the warehouse.
  • User-friendly enterprise mobility that integrates familiarity into an enterprise format. By reducing learning curves and adoption times, user-friendly mobile devices can accelerate worker connectivity, allowing them to be productive on their first day and to navigate through warehouse operations without confusion.

Integrating Mobile Digitization with Zebra Technologies

To establish end to end connectivity within the workforce, Avalon partners with leading manufacturers like Zebra Technologies to simplify digitization with intuitive enterprise-ready devices. Future-forward systems like Zebra’s Workforce Connect can be combined with rugged Android devices to:

  1. Streamline crucial workflows through one platform – replace 2-way radios and handheld scanners by combining them both in one Zebra mobile computer.
  2. Certify task completion – Use Workforce Connect’s task manager to assign and manage workflows remotely throughout your operations. When changes occur, simply notify teams via their handheld to minimize disruptions.
  3. Connect groups through secured communication channels – Zebra’s Fortified Android protects sensitive data with recurring security patches and government-grade encryption, so your team can integrate push-to-talk capabilities within their devices without security risks.
  4. Unify field teams – Track delivery status to verify shipping accuracy and driver productivity. Plus, notify field teams of rerouting changes when needed to avoid delays.

To see how zebra’s workforce connect enhances the modern supply chain, download our brochure here.

In unifying teams through seamless connectivity solutions, operations are able to prevent breakdowns, bottlenecks, and costly shortages that impact the customer experience. Reach out to our modernization experts today to explore more connectivity solutions that set your teams one step ahead of change.

 

 

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Protecting a new line of first responders with UV-Clean

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Over three million American workers have become unexpected first responders within the Coronavirus crisis. They are the store clerks, cashiers, associates, grocers, and retail workers that keep supermarkets operational during one of the most demanding times society has faced within recent years. However, unlike our healthcare professionals, grocery and retail workers lack proper protective gear to mitigate the spread of disease. Furthermore, in the midst of attempting to provide fast and accurate service, grocery operations currently face an extraordinary labor shortage as job postings have risen by 60% in the past three weeks, further impacting crucial sanitation practices and schedules. Although many 24h stores have shortened open hours to restock and clean, eradicating germ spread efficiently from all high-touch surfaces is no simple task.

Tackling High Touch Areas with No-Touch UV Technology

UV-Clean Power of Light from Proximity Systems

UV-Clean from Proximity Systems

Although water and soap work effectively on human hands, certain high touch surfaces such as your workforce’s shared mobile devices may be sensitive to cleaning materials and water.  However, mobile devices also carry thousands of bacteria from hand to hand between usage. As your associates share devices such as handheld scanners, mobile computers, and keyboards, pathogens can spread from surface to surface. To eliminate cross-contamination risks, Avalon Integration has partnered with Proximity in equipping your operations with UV-Clean, the touch-free sanitation solution crafted for reliable performance in any space.

Watch the video from Proximity to learn more!

  • Adaptable mounting options to fit your workspace
  • Automated disinfection cycles 
  • Customizable sanitation schedules
  • Built-in audit trail for sanitation management
  • Scalable to your business’ needs
  • 24” active cleaning area

Destroying bacteria DNA at a microscopic level, UV-Clean eliminates 99.99% of pathogens with one short cycle, boosting device availability without spreading germs throughout your workspace, empowering your workforce to:

  • Access crucial devices during peak hours
  • Process more orders with the technology they need
  • Share enterprise-grade devices with peace of mind

Catch a closer look at the power of UV light with Avalon Integration when you contact us for a free assessment of your current disinfection plan and integrate the next evolution in sanitation efficiency.

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Trick Time and Get the Faster Upgrades with Avalon

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On average, it takes you less than a second to click a button. That means you could be one second away from getting the latest Zebra technology when you upgrade legacy devices with Avalon Integration through the GO Zebra Trade-In Program. By following three simple steps, modernize with Zebra by adding innovative devices to your team.

1. Purchase the Product:

Step one is to purchase the product

From the rugged mobile computers to industrial printers, Avalon helps you stay updated with the newest technology while getting cashback. Maximize productivity while eliminating the stress of OS migration when you invest in products that

  • Handle harsh environments such as heat, cold, and chemicals
  • Adaptable to new applications and workforce growth
  • Sustain department connectivity through a reliable network
  • Protect sensitive information through government-grade encryption
  • Keep functioning throughout long-shifts

Designed to increase efficiency, devices such as the TC8300 can maximize productivity by 14%, giving you the equivalent of an extra hour of work per day per employee.  But the benefits don’t there. Trading with Avalon gives you the chance to get cashback with two more steps.

2. Submit Your Claim Form:

Step 2 is to Submit a Claim Form

Submit a rebate claim within 90 days of your purchase. This is a simple form that ensures your old device will qualify. Plus, in our mission to promote sustainable technological advancement, Avalon accepts multiple brands in addition to Zebra products. Devices qualify as long as they are similar in operation to the newly purchased item.

3. Trade-in Your Legacy Device to Avalon

Step 3 is to Trade in your Legacy Device

Fuel future change after you submit your claim by sending Avalon your legacy devices for recycling. Help reduce the overwhelming amount of e-waste while cashing in on your new devices. 

Until December 31st, 2019, maximize your profits with Avalon through the GO Zebra Trade-In program and stay ahead of time with quality devices engineered for quality results. Check out the list of eligible devices and contact us for further assistance on how to submit your claim.

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Innovative Approaches to Retiring Electronic Devices

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In our last post, we talked about the growing issue of e-waste. As new technologies swiftly replace older devices, organizations are wrestling with how to reduce (or even stop) the flow of e-waste and they’re coming up with innovative solutions.

New apps are being developed to help combat e-waste. The apps perform a wide range of functions, from connecting customers with local waste haulers and finding current recycling information to multiple guidelines for safely disposing of devices. Precious metals recycling is entering its next phase thanks to newcomer Attero and a host of other innovative solutions are making the scene or are being readied for prime time.

Recycle Your Scanners and Feel Good About Doing Good!

Recycle Your Scanners for more Innovative Devices

Avalon Integration and Zebra are keeping up with the latest trends and innovations to keep outdated technology from becoming an environmental problem. The Go Zebra CASHBACK REBATE program pays you up to $650 when you trade in your outdated scanners and other devices – no matter what brand it is. And you can be confident Zebra recycles your old devices properly, in compliance with the latest EPA guidelines. As an added bonus, Zebra even picks up the tab for UPS shipping.

Turn your scanners into cash and do the right thing for the environment. Let Avalon and Zebra help you update to more productive scanners. You get cash in your account while making the world cleaner.

Zebra recycles all devices and batteries. They don’t just dump them in landfills. They get disposed of the right way.

Get Cash for Your Outdated Devices and get Innovative with Zebra!

Upgrade Outdated Devices for more innovative options from Zebra

Cash-out your outdated devices

Get up to $650 for making the move to Zebra

Technology keeps advancing. Is yours holding you back?

Outdated devices, like scanners, mobile computers, and thermal printers, lack the features that enable maximum performance—which means you’re compromising productivity.

Zebra makes it easier than ever to cash in your legacy investment and upgrade to the latest, most innovative, purpose-built technology. Get up to $650 cash back when you trade-in your current technology toward the purchase of a new Zebra device.

There’s Never Been a Better Time to Upgrade to Zebra and get Innovative!

Upgrade now to Zebra’s legendary scanners and make your workers more effective. Zebra: Fast. Accurate. Durable.

DS3608-HP/DS3678-HP

DS3608 the new Innovative Scanner from Zebra

SUPERIOR CAPTURE OF BARCODES, PHOTOS

Flexible superior capture of 1D/2D barcodes, photos, signatures, OCR data, and documents — complete with processing to provide a sharp, legible image.

Hurry! Time’s Almost Up!

Rebate expires Dec 31 now is the time

Check out the Avalon Go Zebra page to learn more!

Bonus: Deduct Full Purchase in 2018!

In the last post, we talked about how to trade up to Zebra printers and mobile devices and get cashback. Now you have more reasons than ever to upgrade ALL your track and trace equipment and systems. Section 179 of the IRS tax code allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and/or software purchased or financed during the tax year. That means that if you buy (or lease) NEW equipment, you can deduct the FULL PURCHASE PRICE from your gross income. This year that’s up to $1 million. But hurry: time is running out. You must take delivery by December 31, 2018.

Next Up

In the next post, we’ll talk more about what to do about e-waste and how to do the earth favor while you put cash in your bank account.

*Offer expires 12/31/18 for both trade-in and free shipping

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Confronting the Growth of E-Waste

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In 2016 more than 44.7 metric tonnes (about 49 US tons) of E-Waste were generated worldwide – electronic hardware that has been replaced by newer, more productive models and is now trash. The United Nations Global Partnership on Waste Management and the EPA continually tracks international E-Waste generation, but as we race toward an ever more automated future managing retired technology is a growing issue that can’t be ignored.

Get Paid to Recycle Properly and Help Confront E-Waste Growth!

Recycle to help reduce E-Waste Growth

That’s a big reason why Avalon Integration and Zebra offer the Go Zebra CASHBACK REBATE program. Any time you upgrade to Zebra technology you can get up to $650 cashback – no matter what brand your trade-in. You get cashback and Zebra recycles your old devices properly and in compliance with the latest EPA guidelines in order to help with e-waste growth. Zebra even picks up the tab for UPS shipping.

Plus: Upgrade to the Newest Technology from Zebra

Upgrade to the Latest Technology from Zebra to Help Reduce E-Waste

Outdated devices, like mobile computers and thermal printers, lack the features that enable maximum performance. Stop losing time and productivity to old technology.

Boost ROI with the most innovative track and trace technology on the market.

  • Expanded enterprise-level functionality
  • Improved ease of use
  • Faster processing power to run more apps
  • Advanced scanning power for greater reach and precision
  • Streamlined device management that reduces IT time
  • Expanded connectivity
  • Enterprise OS compatibility
  • Unmatched ruggedness that prevents unnecessary downtime, repair, and replacement
  • Future-proof design and engineering that allows for field-installable upgrades

Help Confront E-Waste And Deduct Your Full Purchase in 2018!

Trade up to a Zebra Printer and Help Confront the Growth of E-Waste

In the last post, we talked about how to trade up to Zebra printers and mobile devices and get cashback. Now you have more reasons than ever to upgrade ALL your track and trace equipment and systems. Section 179 of the IRS tax code allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and/or software purchased or financed during the tax year. That means that if you buy (or lease) NEW equipment, you can deduct the FULL PURCHASE PRICE from your gross income. This year that’s up to $1 million. But hurry: time is running out. You must take delivery by December 31, 2018.

Plus: Get Free Printhead Protection

Just agree to use ONLY genuine Zebra supplies with your Zebra thermal printer and we’ll give you free printhead replacements. You’ll need replacements less often because these quality consumables will prevent the premature wear and tear that the bargain supplies can cause. Join the Printhead Protection Program. Extend the life of your Zebra printer and lower the total cost of ownership. Contact Avalon Integration or click here to enroll.

Rebates Simple as 1, 2, 3!

Contact your Avalon/ Zebra solutions specialist for more details. Just fill out this form.

  1. CONTACT YOUR AUTHORIZED ZEBRA® PARTNER CONNECT CHANNEL PARTNER Avalon Integration will take into consideration your users, applications and work environments, as well as your upfront and ongoing costs of ownership so you choose the right solution.
  2. PURCHASE A QUALIFIED PRODUCT Regardless of which qualifying product you select, you can be sure it’s purpose-built to improve productivity, lower costs, and raise customer satisfaction.
  3. SUBMIT YOUR RECLAIM FORM AND TRADE IN YOUR BATTERIES OR DEVICES Register for your rebate by completing a trade-in application within 90 days of the invoice date. After the claim is successfully completed and approved, you will receive a Trade-in Merchandise Authorization (TMA) with instructions.  Visit zebra.com/gozebra for details.

Hurry! Time’s Almost Up!

Rebate expires Dec 31 now is the time

Check out the Avalon Go Zebra page to learn more!

Next Up

In our next post, we’ll talk about innovations in recycling and how cashback and recycling, combined with IRS 179, make upgrading more affordable than ever for mobile track and trace equipment.

*Offer expires 12/31/18 for both trade-in and free shipping

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3 Reasons to Upgrade Your Printers and Mobile Devices Now

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Last post we talked about how to trade up to Zebra batteries and chargers and get cashback. Now you have more reasons than ever to upgrade ALL your track and trace equipment and systems. But hurry: time is running out. You only have until December 31, 2018!

1. Deduct Your Full Purchase in 2018!

Deduct Your Full Purchase in 2018 for Cash Back!

Section 179 of the IRS tax code allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and/or software purchased or financed during the tax year. That means that if you buy (or lease) NEW equipment, you can deduct the FULL PURCHASE PRICE from your gross income. This year that’s up to $1 million. But, you must take delivery before the end of the year.

2. Get a Cash Rebate with the Go Zebra Cash Back Rebate Program!

Get a Cash Rebate!

Upgrade to the newest technology from Zebra, through Avalon Integration, and get cashback with Zebra’s GO Zebra CASHBACK REBATE program. Trade-in your outdated equipment – any brand – and receive cash back when you upgrade to select Zebra products. Get up to $650 cash back when you trade-in your current technology toward the purchase of a new Zebra device.

Remember, Non-Zebra models qualify for trade-in and Zebra pays shipping.

3. Leverage New Technology Now!

Leverage New Technology Now!

Outdated devices, like mobile computers and thermal printers, lack the features that enable maximum performance. Stop losing time and productivity to old technology. Boost ROI with the most innovative track and trace technology on the market.

  • Expanded enterprise-level functionality
  • Improved ease of use
  • Faster processing power to run more apps
  • Advanced scanning power for greater reach and precision
  • Streamlined device management that reduces IT time
  • Expanded connectivity
  • Enterprise OS compatibility
  • Unmatched ruggedness that prevents unnecessary downtime, repair, and replacement
  • Future-proof design and engineering that allows for field-installable upgrades

Plus: Help the Environment as You Improve Yours

Zebra recycles all devices and batteries. They don’t just dump them in landfills. You’re putting cash in your account and helping Zebra treat the environment right.

Plus: Get Free Printhead Protection

Get Free Printhead Protection

Agree to feed your Zebra thermal printer with ONLY genuine Zebra supplies and we will give you free printhead replacements when you need them—which will be less often because these quality consumables will prevent premature wear and tear that the bargain supplies cause. Join the Printhead Protection Program. Extend the life of your Zebra printer and lower the total cost of ownership. Contact Avalon Integration or click here to enroll.

Rebates as Simple as 1, 2, 3!

  1. Contact Your Authorized Zebra® Partnerconnect Channel Partner Avalon Integration will take into consideration your users, applications, and work environments, as well as your upfront and ongoing costs of ownership so you choose the right solution.
  2. Purchase a Qualified Product Regardless of which qualifying product you select, you can be sure it’s purpose-built to improve productivity, lower costs, and raise customer satisfaction.
  3. Submit Your Reclaim Form and Trade in Your Batteries or Devices Register for your rebate by completing a trade-in application within 90 days of the invoice date. After the claim is successfully completed and approved, you will receive a Trade-in Merchandise Authorization (TMA) with instructions.  Visit zebra.com/gozebra for details.

Next Up

Next, we’ll talk more about how cashback and recycling, combined with IRS 179 make upgrading more affordable than ever for scanners and other mobile equipment.

Hurry – Time’s Almost Up

The program expires on December 31, 2018.

Contact your Avalon/ Zebra solutions specialist for more details.

*Offer expires 12/31/18 for both trade-in and free shipping

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Are Old Batteries Leeching Your Productive Time?

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As lithium-ion batteries age, their performance degrades. Productive time degrades along with them – less uptime, longer charge times and increased battery swapping erode your operational performance – stealing productivity from every day. Now is the perfect time to refresh your mobile printer batteries with GO Zebra. Just trade in your old batteries — including select competitors’ models — and replace them with new Zebra Batteries to earn $10 cashback for every qualifying purchase.

Put Cash in Your Account – Not Batteries in a Landfill!

Quad Battery Charger Power Precision

Zebra recycles all devices and batteries. They don’t just dump them in landfills. You’re putting cash in your account and helping Zebra treat the environment right.

Earn $20 cashback on Zebra’s new Dual 3-Slot Battery Charger when you trade in the Quad Battery Charger. Zebra’s Dual 3-Slot Battery Charger is designed to simultaneously charge up to six PowerPrecision+ batteries from a single AC outlet.

The Dual 3-Slot Battery Charger supports the following PowerPrecision+ batteries:

  • QLn220/QLn320/ZQ500 Standard Battery
  • QLn220/QLn320/ZQ500 Extended Battery
  • QLn220/QLn320 Healthcare Battery
  • QLn420 Battery

AND ZEBRA PAYS SHIPPING FOR YOU TO SEND YOUR OLD BATTERIES AND DEVICES IN FOR TRADE.

Recycle, Renew and Get a Rebate on Printers and Mobile Devices

Replace Batteries with Zebra Power Precision

With Avalon and the GoZebra program, you can get cashback on other devices as well. Trade-in your outdated printers, scanners, and computers – any brand – and receive cash back when you upgrade to the newest, best technology from Zebra. Outdated devices, like mobile computers and thermal printers, lack the features that enable maximum performance—which means you’re compromising productivity.

Zebra makes it easier than ever to cash in your legacy investment and upgrade to the latest, most innovative, purpose-built technology. Get up to $650 cashback when you trade in your current technology toward the purchase of a new Zebra device.

REBATES AS SIMPLE AS 1, 2, 3!

Power Precision Batteries Icon

  1. CONTACT YOUR AUTHORIZED ZEBRA® PARTNER CONNECT CHANNEL PARTNER Let Avalon Integration guide you to the right solutions. We’ll take into consideration your users, applications, and work environments, as well as your upfront and ongoing costs of ownership.
  2. PURCHASE A QUALIFIED PRODUCT Regardless of which qualifying product you select, you can be sure it’s purpose-built to improve productivity, lower costs, and raise customer satisfaction.
  3. SUBMIT YOUR RECLAIM FORM AND TRADE IN YOUR BATTERIES OR DEVICES Register for your rebate by completing a trade-in application within 90 days of the invoice date. After the claim is successfully completed and approved, you will receive a Trade-in Merchandise Authorization (TMA) with instructions.  Visit zebra.com/gozebra for details.

NEXT UP

Next, we’ll talk more about how cashback and recycling can combine with IRS 179 rules to make upgrading more affordable than ever. There’s never been a better time to upgrade.

Hurry – Time’s Almost Up

The program expires on December 31, 2018.

Contact your Avalon/ Zebra solutions specialist for more details.

*Offer expires 12/31/18 for both trade-in and free shipping

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What Is OS Migration?

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Simply put, if you currently use any Windows Operating System other than Windows 10 or Azure IoT for your enterprise devices, you will need to migrate to another operating system even if it’s to a newer Windows OS to be prepped for the upcoming OS Migration.

A challenge – yes – and maybe an opportunity. The entire debate begins with Microsoft appearing to throw in the towel on windows phones – they are not just cutting support for older iterations but they seem to be giving up on the Windows phone. Enterprise users will need to find alternatives and plan strategies that move their businesses forward.

OS Migration Schedule

OS Migration Schedule

Here is the schedule for Windows OS withdrawal from the rugged enterprise market.

Operating System General Support Ends Extended Support Ends
Windows Embedded Compact 7 Ended April 13, 2021
Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5 Ended January 13, 2020
Windows Embedded CE 6.0 Ended Ended
Windows Embedded Handheld 8.1 July 9, 2019 N/A
Others (CE 5.0, WM 5.0, WM 6.1, WM 6.5, WEHH 8.0) Ended Ended

Windows’ dilemma affects 15 million mobile enterprise computers— approximately 90% of the enterprise computing market and the impact will be felt across all industries.

No more security patches. No more updates.

For some, the search for a suitable OS began as soon as the announcement was made. Sooner or later everyone using the older Windows OS will need to find a new one and migrate their apps.

What are the options?

  1. Continue with Windows, without security updates. You’ll be risking your network to malware and eventually, your productivity will suffer as devices go down and can’t be serviced.
  2. Rewrite your apps to fit Windows 10 and IoT. Your users still need to learn a new interface even as you invest in rewriting apps.
  3. Move to a different operating system, like Android or iOS. Yes, you rewrite apps, but you move to viable Operating Systems that users know well.

Android or iOS?

TC20 - OS Migration

Most of your workforce is already very familiar with Android. 85% of consumer and enterprise mobile devices currently in use run on Android; 14% run iOS. It’s pretty clear these are the two most likely choices – Android and iOS.

There are plusses and minuses to each. Android offers a much larger population of software developers, but it has suffered in the past from security issues associated with its open-source platform. If, as it appears now, that problem has been resolved, Android would present a distinct advantage over iOS. Also, iOS is only available for consumer-grade Apple devices. They are enormously popular with consumers but don’t have nearly the enterprise-level features of durability, scanning, and computing that Android offers. 

An Enterprise Android Solution for OS Migration

OS Migration - DNA Mobility

Zebra has deep Android experience and created a solution that is gaining a lot of traction among enterprise users. Zebra’s Powerful Mobility Extensions (Mx) and Mobility DNA Solutions overcome security issues and create robust management capabilities to meet the needs of the modern enterprise user.

With the Zebra overlays, Android looks like the OS leader in enterprise-ready devices. Your data is secure. The OS is eminently flexible and customizable. Android’s familiar interface makes it easy for almost every member of the workforce to use and it’s affordable. And Zebra’s commitment to enterprise mobility offers an opportunity to substantially upgrade performance once you’ve made a plan to migrate to Android.

You have important choices to make if you’re using Windows CE/Embedded. Migrate now or wait until you no longer have security patches to protect your network. In future blogs, we’ll take up, in more detail, the impact of the OS Migration as well as where and when to migrate to a new operating system.

Avalon Integration can help you evaluate your current situation and guide you to the strategic transition that will deliver the best results for your company. Talk to us to steer your migration along a smart route.

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