ATLANTA – UPS posted on its corporate blog in early March that it has rolled out a new type of mobile device for its drivers. Called the DIAD V, the device enables on-the-fly switching between cellular carriers independent of cellular technology, allowing a driver to jump to another cellular carrier if the signal is lost. The new model is also apparently half the size and weight of the DIAD IV.

The device features a color display and expanded memory that UPS, which UPS said could enable driver training and the addition of navigation applications. The device also comes with a color, auto-focus, flash camera, that UPS said it could use to provide proof of delivery to customers and to help resolve customer claims.

UPS operators can communicate customer requests, for example package delivery instructions, and its imager can capture a range of barcode types and a more clear version of a package recipient’s signature.

The company also provided a video (below) of its drivers discussing the benefits of this technology.