Getac Technology Corporation (Getac), a leading provider of rugged computing and mobile video solutions, today announced the launch of its next generation B360 and B360 Pro fully rugged laptops, offering professionals across industries including field services, utilities and defense two powerful, yet versatile solutions to overcome the daily challenges they face.

Next generation AI-ready performance
The next generation B360 and B360 Pro combine fully rugged build quality with a host of innovative new technology upgrades. This includes the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors and Intel AI Boost technology, which enables users to leverage on-device Edge AI to quickly and seamlessly execute tasks. In a recent text-to-report evaluation test conducted with Getac industry customers using Llama 3.1 8B, AI applications running on the B360 were able to turn extensive texts into full reports in a matter of seconds. This powerful Edge AI performance offers significant operational advantages over cloud AI, particularly in scenarios requiring real-time processing, high levels of data privacy and security, offline capability, and cost efficiency.Elsewhere, the next generation B360 and B360 Pro boast a range of versatile new I/O options, including up to two Thunderbolt 4 ports for incredibly fast data transfer. LifeSupport hot-swappable battery technology boosts productivity by minimizing the need to recharge the devices mid-shift, while Wi-Fi 7 offers data speeds up to five times faster than Wi-Fi 6, as well as up to 60% lower latency. The B360 Pro features dual high-capacity batteries as standard, while an optional NVIDIA Quadro RTX A500 4 GB discrete graphics controller takes visuals to the next level without impacting processing performance. The B360 Pro also includes an optional media bay, which can accommodate a third SSD (for up to 6 TB storage capacity in total), third battery, DVD drive or Blu-ray drive as required.

Fully customisable to meet specific industry needs
The next generation B360 and B360 Pro are both available in a range of industry-specific configurations and can be further tailored with bespoke customization options spanning hardware, software, accessories and service. As a result, customers can ensure their device specifications match intended use cases, even when only ordering in small batches. Key industry examples include:

• Optimal productivity for field service professionals—Field service professionals rely on Getac rugged devices for secure data access, remote communication, intelligence gathering and more, helping them to quickly complete complex tasks regardless of the environment or situation faced. Organizations can customize their next generation B360 devices with a range of specific software, hardware, accessory and service options to optimize worker productivity in the field and effectively achieve operational goals. The B360 and B360 Pro offer multiple authentication options such as a smart card reader, RFID, and a fingerprint reader helping ensure seamless device access while maintaining data security.
• Highly efficient mobile GIS, surveying and mapping for utilities professionals—The next generation B360 is ideally suited to mobile GIS, surveying and mapping tasks in remote locations and/or adverse weather conditions, thanks to its MIL-STD-810H, MIL-STD-461G, and IP66 certifications, as well as 6ft drop resistance. An optional secure carry bag aids portability, while software such as Getac Virtual GPS Utility offers a fast and reliable way to manage up to five GPS applications simultaneously. If even more accuracy is required, the next generation B360 can also be equipped with an optional high accuracy GPS module and antenna, ensuring location accuracy to the greatest extent.
• Secure, reliable command and control for defence professionals—In the defense industry, commanders rely on Getac rugged devices for real-time intelligence, military data integration, and secure communications to drive mission-critical decisions and counter threats. The next generation B360 Pro features extended battery life as standard for uninterrupted operation in the field, while an optional secure vehicle dock can quickly turn any vehicle into a mobile command station. The B360 Pro can also be customized to include two PCMCIA readers if needed (one is included as standard), further increasing device functionality without the need for external adaptors.

"As the popularity of open-source and Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) language models continues to grow at a rapid pace, we have collaborated with industry customers to develop innovative vertical market AI applications that enable them to take full advantage of the operational benefits on offer. These advancements will drive demand for rugged Edge AI devices like the next generation B360 and B360 Pro, and accelerate AI adoption across the field service, utilities and defense sectors," says James Hwang, President of Getac Technology Corporation. "Our industry-specific solutions and customization capabilities also give customers much more control when choosing devices for specific use cases, helping to maximize productivity and ensure a rapid return on their investment."

The next generation B360 and B360 Pro will be available in April.