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We couldn't get confirmation on the exact CPU inside the Xcover 2, but take our word for it: performance is sluggish. Effect any of the hard Android navigation keys on the bottom and you'll notice a bit of lag before the OS kicks into action.

This phone reminds me of a less-elegant version of the Samsung Galaxy Rugby Pro we reviewed on AT&T last year. It's coated in a thick layer of rubber, with tough, scratch-resistant glass.

From out limited time with the phone, we were far from blown away with it. This is perhaps because recently, we have been lucky enough to spend some time with new high-end smartphones such as the Xperia S and HTC One, which make this interface seems a bit low-end.

We didn't get to dunk it underwater, which is still a favourite test of all mobile phone reviewers, but we're pretty confident it can stand the heat. Also literally.

Many ruggedized smartphones seem to skimp on hardware or software, so it's reassuring to see that Samsung hasn't cut corners on the Galaxy XCover 2. It's an attractive-looking toughened device with the full Samsung/Android software package to boot.