Eviden and AllWayTon Launch First Triple-Mode Rail Smartphone
The new device supports GSM-R, FRMCS, and 5G, simplifying the transition for rail operators.
Key points
- Eviden and AllWayTon launched the first smartphone supporting GSM-R, FRMCS, and 5G networks simultaneously.
- The device combines AllWayTon hardware with Eviden's secure MCX Client for push-to-talk and data services.
- The solution is available for purchase and was presented at InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin.
Eviden and AllWayTon have introduced the first smartphone capable of operating simultaneously on legacy GSM-R, next-generation FRMCS, and public 5G networks. Announced in Paris on September 22, 2026, this partnership aims to provide rail stakeholders with a single terminal to manage communications during the complex migration away from aging infrastructure. By combining hardware expertise with secure software solutions, the companies seek to streamline operations for railway professionals who currently rely on multiple devices.
GSM-R remains the backbone of railway communications, but infrastructure managers are preparing its gradual replacement by FRMCS, a standard specified by the International Union of Railways. The new terminal bridges this gap by allowing users to access existing GSM-R services and upcoming FRMCS features without switching hardware. This dual capability ensures continuity of service while organizations test and deploy next-generation systems, reducing the friction often associated with large-scale technological transitions.
Combining Hardware and Secure Software
The device integrates AllWayTon’s triple-mode hardware with Eviden’s MCX Client, a critical application for secure push-to-talk, data, and video services. This combination is part of Eviden’s Lifelink MCX Connect portfolio, which supports integration, interoperability, and cybersecurity throughout the transition process. AllWayTon brings manufacturing experience with professional rail devices deployed in over 30 countries, while Eviden handles the systems integration required to ensure these devices work seamlessly within broader railway networks.
While the partnership offers a unified solution, the trade-off involves reliance on a specific software ecosystem for full functionality. The MCX Client is essential for unlocking the secure communication features that distinguish this device from standard commercial smartphones. Therefore, the value of the hardware is tightly coupled to Eviden’s software services, meaning operators must adopt the entire stack to benefit from the triple-mode capabilities.
Availability at InnoTrans 2026
According to Idéal Investisseur, the smartphones equipped with the MCX Client are now available for purchase. The solution is being showcased at InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin, running from September 22 to 25. Visitors can see the device in action at Eviden’s stand in hall 4.1 and AllWayTon’s stand in hall 7.1b. This public demonstration serves as a testbed for industry stakeholders to evaluate the device’s performance and integration potential before broader deployment.
The move reflects a broader industry trend toward consolidating communication tools into single, ruggedized devices. By offering a product that works across three distinct network standards, Eviden and AllWayTon address a specific pain point in rail operations: the lack of flexibility during the transition period. This approach reduces the logistical burden on railway workers who would otherwise need to carry separate devices for different communication modes.
