Æsir, armed with a concept designed by Yves Behar, looked to PDT to turn the concept into reality. Chosen from a pool of more than 60 companies, PDT led the product development and mechanical engineering for the Æ+Y phone based on our deep expertise with telecommunications projects. Æ+Y serves not only as a mobile phone but also a statement of refinement. The phone’s design presented unique engineering challenges as it utilized materials not typically found in mobile phones, and also required a distinct level of visual and functional perfection. The metalwork, available in either 18K gold or stainless steel, was created by French and Swiss specialists who have experience working on luxury watches. A custom Dutch-made ceramic casing delivers a highly durable, scratch-resistant, high-gloss finish. The screen was engineered using the highest quality sapphire crystal, and the keys were designed to have a unique edge-to-edge alignment unlike any other phone on the market.
The patented phone was engineered to be a quality, long-lasting alternative to other devices on the market that typically need to be replaced after a few years of use. PDT successfully engineered the unique edge-to-edge key alignment and keypad assembly that requires 20 miniature screws in order to obtain the unique movement of the keys and feel of the keypress. The seamless interface between the sapphire crystal screen and the ceramic casing was also an engineering feat and is the first of its kind for the industry. The ‘Æ+Y’ mobile phone is the first in the company’s planned series of mobile phones.
