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Aker BP / Xshielder

 

Empowering Offshore Teams with Xshielder Enabled iPhones

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Client

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Offshore Goal
Aker BP wants to increase offshore efficiency by significantly improving productive time in field
Safety Need
They need mobile technology that can perform reliably and safely in hazardous offshore environments.
Joint Development
We co-developed an explosion-proof iPhone 16 Pro Max solution, in partnership with Aker BP.
Scope Expansion
The rollout scope expanded from 450 to 1,000 devices in 2025 after strong user adoption and performance results.
User Demand
While deployment is still underway, the increase from 450 to 1,000 devices demonstrates the strong uptake among Aker BP’s offshore teams. This end-user driven demand reflects growing confidence in the technology and represents a significant move towards Aker BP's digitalisation goals.
1,000 Devices deployed
2025 Deployment Year
ATEA Implementation Partner
Oil & Gas Industry

The Problem

Aker BP aims to improve offshore productivity by providing workers with instant access to digital systems and communication tools. To meet the ambiguous target of ten hours productive time in field per 12-hour shift, the company requires a mobile device that can perform in demanding offshore conditions while meeting strict safety and reliability standards.

Existing explosion-proof devices fall short of requirements due to issues like reduced touch, poor battery time and processors that are not capable of running the newest 3D models.

To deliver according to Aker BPs strategy the devices need to integrate with enterprise systems such as SAP, Cognite InField, and Microsoft 365, while remaining compliant with Aker BP’s security policies and management through Microsoft Intune.

Sustainability and lifecycle costs were further concerns for Aker BP.  Aker BP want a long-term, future-proof solution that supports both operational and environmental goals.

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The Solution

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After assessing the market, Aker BP made a strategic decision to work with us on a new solution that combined Apple’s advanced technology with the rugged protection needed for hazardous offshore environments. You can read more in this blog post. Designed with input from Aker BP employees, we designed a cover which is usable with gloves and standard offshore tools, while protecting the phone from impact, moisture, and dust.

Encapsulating a powerful hardware and intuitive iOS platform enables the fieldworkers to run advanced applications such as 3D models, digital twins, and real-time video calls directly in the field. Face ID simplifies login, and key applications like Control of Work, Microsoft Copilot, SAP, and Cognite InField come pre-installed for immediate use.

All devices are securely managed through Microsoft Intune, ensuring updates and configurations are handled centrally. The iPhone’s long lifecycle, combined with the recyclable explosion proof Xshielder cover, reduces total cost of ownership and improves sustainability.

Results and Impact

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The collaboration has produced the Xshielder cover for the iPhone 16 Pro Max - a compact, certified, and easy-to-use solution for Zone 1 operations. 

The initial plan was to deploy 450 devices, but workers quickly recognized the difference in performance and ease of use, prompting Aker BP to double the order to 1,000 units. The Xshielder-enabled iPhones are now an essential part of daily operations, valued for their reliability, ease of use and ability to keep work moving efficiently in the field.

“Finally, an explosion proof smartphone I want to use. This device has already changed the way we work."

Martin Frost
Offshore Installation Manger
Aker BP

 

Productivity gains

Field workers are able to add and retrieve information directly into Aker BP’s source systems from the field saving time as one don’t have to walk back to the office to report. A key feature highlighted by Aker BP’s field workers is the large screen. The display is not only easy to use with gloves but also spacious enough to comfortably update Excel spreadsheets and other documents directly in the field.

Safety and compliance 

Digital checklists and control-of-work tools are improving documentation and safety performance. Offshore engineers can complete inspections more efficiently and close backlogs faster, improving asset integrity.

Cost savings 

With a lifecycle of five years or more, and recyclable materials, It offers lower total cost of ownership and less environmental impact. 

Cultural shift

Offshore workers view digital tools as essential equipment rather than optional extras. The devices have become part of their daily kit, reinforcing Aker BP’s digital-first culture.

“With this device, I can easily find relevant information when I am in the field. It’s become the tool I always make sure I have with me”

Kjetil Skretting
Automation Technician
Aker BP

 

Implementation

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With Aker BP’s digital strategy at the forefront, the project team embraced the challenge of implementing the new devices without traveling offshore. Thanks to the intuitive and user-friendly hardware it was straightforward to develop training materials. Field workers were able to independently set up their handheld devices and access Aker BP’s core applications through a dedicated e-learning course. Xshielder’s commitment to timely delivery and high quality ensured that the project stayed on track and met all milestones as planned.

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"Xshielder delivered on all of their milestones, and worked hard to meet and exceed our requirements.”

Andrea Lorentzen
Future Operations
Project Manager
Aker BP

Conclusion

The Xshielder-enabled iPhone is now a cornerstone of Aker BP’s digital transformation strategy and a model for innovation across the energy sector.

Aker BP’s collaboration with Xshielder has set a new standard for mobility in hazardous offshore environments. By addressing performance, safety, and sustainability in one solution, the project demonstrates how technology can empower field workers, improve efficiency, and strengthen operational safety. The project’s success is caused by early user involvement, agile co-development, and a shared vision for the product.

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