Cat S22 Flip rugged phone

The Cat S22 Flip is a unique rugged smartphone that blends a nostalgic clamshell form factor with modern Android functionality. Although it carries the iconic branding of the American heavy equipment giant Caterpillar Inc., the device was actually developed and marketed by the British-based Bullitt Group under a long-term licensing agreement. The hardware itself was primarily manufactured by Phenix New Energy Co. Ltd. in Shenzhen, China, specifically for the Cat brand.

Following the insolvency and closure of the Bullitt Group in early 2024, production of the original S22 Flip model has ceased, making existing stock highly sought after by outdoor professionals and digital minimalists. As of 2025, Caterpillar Inc. has transitioned its mobile licensing rights to Orbic, a US/Japan-based manufacturer, to ensure the continued development of ruggedized hardware under the Cat name. Despite these corporate shifts, Caterpillar Inc. remains the ultimate owner of the brand name and trademark, headquartered in the United States.