Online retailers in the UK have teased a December release for Samsung Galaxy Xcover as the Android 2.3 rugged smartphone hits pre-orderSamsung’s recently unveiled rugged Android handset the Samsung Galaxy Xcover looks set to hit stores next month as UK online retailers begin taking pre-orders.Formally unveiled back in August Samsung’s ultra tough iP7 certified pocket blower looks set to touch down in the coming weeks with online retailer Handtec allowing consumers to pre-order the device ahead of an unspecified December release with a SIM free Samsung Galaxy Xcover price of £224.39.The first rugged smartphone to be announced running Gingerbread version 2.3 of Google’s Android mobile OS, the Samsung Galaxy Xcover is to launch sporting a 3.65-inch touchscreen display with the tempered glass screen sporting a scratch-resistant coating.Set to challenge the likes of the Motorola Defy as a leading rugged Android handset the Xcover is protected against dust and can survive underwater at a depth of 1 metre for up to half an hour. An 800MHz processor and a rear mounted 3-megapixel camera with LED flash complete the handset’s specs offering.Are you impressed by the Samsung Galaxy Xcover or do you think rugged smartphones are without merit or true target audience? Let us know what you think via the comments box below.