As outdoor enthusiasts, there's no better time to dive back into hiking than now. Naturally, tech plays a crucial role in our adventures, and RugOne, a member of the Ulefone family, has provided us with two units of their latest device, the Xlink 7, for testing.
So, what exactly is the Xlink 7? It’s a walkie-talkie, but not the kind you may have used as a child. RugOne promotes it as an "AI 4G communicator" with “unlimited range.”
This modern walkie-talkie boasts a robust and waterproof design, unlimited 4G connectivity, and an on-device AI assistant, which is a must-have for technology in 2026. Our testing of the Xlink 7 took place during a recent hiking trip, and below are our impressions. For a brief video introduction, click here.
RugOne Xlink 7 Specifications:
- Body: 63.6x51.7x22.95mm, 84g; metal, rubber, and plastic; IP68/IP69K waterproof rating (submersible up to 1.5m for 30 minutes); MIL-STD-810H compliant; dedicated flashlight.
- Chipset: ASR1609S.
- Memory: 8MB PSRAM; 8MB storage.
- Battery and Charging: 1,050mAh; 5W wired (USB-C).
- Connectivity: 4G/LTE; nanoSIM; Bluetooth 5.2; GPS, GLONASS, Beidou.
- Features: Push-To-Talk Button, loudspeaker, duplex call, on-device AI assistant, emergency SOS mode.
Ulefone has a strong reputation for rugged devices, but this is our first encounter with a rugged walkie-talkie featuring global 4G connectivity. This means you can use it anywhere in the world without incurring roaming fees.
The Xlink 7 is particularly valuable for hiking in remote areas, especially for teams of friends. RugOne also markets it as the perfect companion for extreme sports enthusiasts who require reliable cellular connectivity and straightforward communication.
But before we proceed to the details, let’s explore what the Xlink 7 package includes. Spoiler alert: there’s a lot.
Unboxing
The package contains the Xlink 7 itself, along with a magnetic back clip for easy attachment to clothing or bags. Additionally, there’s an armband strap, which can secure the device to your arm.
Additional Accessories
Among the accessories, you’ll find a small tracker-like button, which is a wireless remote that allows you to activate the Xlink 7’s push-to-talk feature from a distance. It includes the same push-to-talk button.
You can attach it to your bike handle with the included Velcro straps or on your gloves while skiing, ensuring seamless communication with your group. It is powered by a single CR1620 battery, which is also included in the box.
Next, there’s a bright orange lanyard strap, a braided USB-C to USB-C cable, and, specific to our version, a global IoT (Internet of Things) nanoSIM card.
This nanoSIM allows the Xlink 7 to connect to any supported 4G/LTE network worldwide. The bundled SIM is valid for 12 months from its first use.
Design
The Xlink 7 embodies Ulefone’s design philosophy with its boxy octagonal shape, measuring just over 63mm tall and nearly 52mm wide. Its footprint resembles larger earbud cases, but it is significantly heavier. Weighing in at 84 grams, this device has a solid presence when attached to your backpack.
The body combines plastic with rubber and metal components. The four buttons are made from metal, while the volume rocker at the top is plastic. Rubber seals protect the SIM card and USB-C ports.
Xlink 7 Sides and Back
Both review units we received are in the Sand Dune color, but Ulefone also offers a Sports Black variant.
The front has a glossy plastic finish, with the push-to-talk button positioned above the speaker. The bottom of the device houses an LED flashlight, activated by a long press of the Action Button.
Hardware and Features
Aside from its rugged look, the Xlink 7 functions as a straightforward communication tool for outdoor activities.
Its durability is impressive. With an IP68 rating for water immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes and an IP69K rating against high-pressure water jets, the Xlink 7 held up well during our multi-hour hike in the mountains.
Dipping it in a cool creek posed no challenge, nor did occasional bumps against branches or rocks. It also withstands extreme temperatures, with RugOne stating it can operate safely between -30°C and +55°C.
The tactile metal buttons are easy to press, and the volume rocker is accessible. The prominent push-to-talk button on the front is straightforward to use, and the microphone efficiently captured my voice even amidst other hikers.
Xlink 7 Profile
While it lacks a display, the Xlink 7 provides audible feedback. Each button press generates a beep or response. The AI button lets you control various functions of the device and offers contextual information like weather updates, navigation tips, and answers to basic queries.
Seven status LEDs on the front convey essential information such as connectivity, battery level, Bluetooth activity, and volume. The status symbol remains solid while transmitting and flashes during incoming messages. It also blinks red when the battery is below 20% or when no network is available.
The included SIM card ensures constant connectivity, as long as there is a cellular signal. Unlike traditional SIM cards, this global IoT SIM is not tied to a specific carrier, ensuring seamless network access without roaming charges while traveling abroad.
The emergency SOS feature is another valuable aspect. By rapidly pressing the action button five times, you can activate a loud siren, which also alerts emergency contacts and shares your live location.
We were pleased to find that connectivity remained stable during our hike, even at higher altitudes, although performance may vary based on the proximity of cell towers. The Xlink 7 supports group calls with up to two other users for 30 minutes.
Xlink 7 Strapped to a Backpack
A dedicated Xlink app is available for iOS and Android, providing access to additional features, such as tracking the last visible location of the Xlink 7 and the ability to replay voice messages and group calls.
The Xlink 7 features a 1,050mAh battery, which RugOne claims offers up to 87 hours of standby or 10 hours of talk time.
Conclusion
When the Xlink 7 arrived, we weren’t sure what to expect, but it quickly proved to be an invaluable companion during our hikes. Its reliable connectivity kept us in touch throughout our outdoor adventure, reassuring us that we were prepared for any emergencies.
The rugged and waterproof construction tackled various obstacles, including branches and rocks, as well as an unexpected dip in a stream, without losing its integrity. The on-device AI assistant provided real-time updates on various inquiries during our hike, and the included accessories allowed for seamless integration with our gear.
The necessity of a dedicated communicator like the Xlink 7 depends on your lifestyle. If you are an avid hiker who enjoys exploring the outdoors with friends, this device is a great way to maintain group communication.
Its utility extends to skiers, cyclists, climbers, and water sports enthusiasts, with particular benefits for the latter group regarding GPS positioning for equipment retrieval.
The Xlink 7 is set to launch via Kickstarter on June 22, with an introductory "Super Early Bird" offer for a pair of Xlink 7 units priced at $160.
