Panasonic, an industry leading manufacturer of mobile computing solutions that are purpose-built for the way people work, announced the U.S. launch of its newly upgraded Toughbook 31 laptop computer. Specifically designed for the mobile workforce, which has relied on the Toughbook brand for two decades, the Toughbook 31 offers improved safety and functionality to optimize productivity for workers in challenging and extreme environments.

"Today's announcement reflects the evolution of the best-selling Toughbook 31. The newly enhanced device is addressing the ever-changing needs of mobile workers in demanding industries, including utilities, public sector and federal government professionals," said Brian Rowley, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management, Panasonic System Solutions Company of North America. "In industries where failure is not an option, the Toughbook 31's improved features and faster processing power will provide customers with the competitive edge they need to keep working, no matter the challenges."

Upgraded with the latest Intel Core i5-7300U vPro processor, the Toughbook 31 is more powerful than ever before, offering peak performance, enhanced graphics, standard features such as faster 16 GB DDR4 memory and a 256GB SSD, and an advanced LTE module, in addition to several additional new improvements. Offering more features for the same price, Panasonic says the Toughbook 31 is not only providing better value for customers, but also improving mobility, safety and optimizing productivity.

Toughbook 31 Enhanced Features:

• Upgraded processing system: Intel Core i5-7300U vPro improves processing performance by 19 percent and graphic performance by 42 percent. Also available is an i7 CPU.

• Enhanced memory module: Faster DDR4 memory module boosts system's memory. 16GB of RAM will be a standard feature with 32GB optional.

• Advanced connectivity: To provide flexibility for those in manufacturing, EM7455 LTE-Advanced is available to offer what Panasonic calls unparalleled LTE speeds, bandwidth and network performance. Also available is a dedicated GPS modem.

• Longer battery life: For customers who often find themselves away from power sources for extended periods of time, a second battery offers the ability to swap batteries to achieve unlimited battery life and enhanced safety on the job – an imperative for the federal government sector.

• Additional improvements: Updated Wi-Fi chip, and more standard features like a 256GB SSD.

• Integrated options: Configurable features can be designed for mobile professionals based on industry application such as an insertable smartcard.

Warranty and services

Every device comes with a comprehensive 3-year manufacturer's hardware warranty covering all defects in materials or workmanship. With US-based engineering, help desk and repair services, devices have an average turnaround time of 48 hours once received at the Panasonic National Service Center. Also, all overnight freights are paid both ways for all in warranty repairs. Additional upgraded services are available, including Premier Deployment services, 24 hour devices exchange programs, Extended Product Warranty (4th/5th year), Ultimate Care and Protection Plus (Accidental Damage Warranties), and HDD/SSD no return Warranties.

Pricing and availability

The latest Toughbook 31 is available this December from authorized Panasonic resellers at an estimated street price starting around $3699.

Sales inquiries for Panasonic Toughbook mobile computers and tablets should be directed to sales.psc@us.panasonic.com or 877-803-8492.