Google has finally launched "Android One" smartphone family in India on Monday at price starting at affordable Rs.6399 (US $105), Android One is an initiative announced earlier this year which is aimed at boosting sales in key emerging markets through cheaper prices and better quality software.
As speculated, Google has tied up with Indian handset makers Micromax, Karbonn and Spice Mobiles to launch the 6,399 rupees phone, which is powered by Google's operating system and targets the booming low-cost segment of the world's fastest growing smartphone market. The new Android One family smartphones will be available online in India on Amazon, Flipkart and Snapdeal.
For our readers, don't get confused that Andoid One is new Android OS; it's not, Android One is a new family of Android devices, designed in collaboration with several manufacturers. The current version of the Android OS is Android KitKat only.
An Android One device will always run the latest version of Android on a high-quality hardware package. You'll enjoy a smooth, fast, lag-free experience and access to the latest technology, features and apps. All at a really affordable price. Updates in all Android One devices happen automatically over the air (OTA), through your 3G or WiFi connection.
Sundar Pichai, SVP of Android division of Google said - "There are three big reasons why it’s hard for people in countries such as India, Indonesia or the Philippines to get their hands on a high-quality smartphone. First, is the hardware itself. Even entry-level smartphones still remain out of reach for many (bear in mind that in some of these countries the average monthly income is around $250). Second, many people in these markets do not have access to the latest Android software and popular applications. Finally, even where 3G and 4G networks are available, not enough people have phones that can support data and the plans can be expensive."
"Android One aims to help tackle these challenges. By working closely with phone and silicon chip makers to share reference designs and select components, we’re making it easier for our partners to build phones that are not just great to use, but also affordable. They have lots of processing power, so you can get information quickly. They have high-quality front- and rear-facing cameras. And for all those pictures, along with your apps and videos, Android One phones will have expandable storage. We also added features that people in India will find particularly useful, like dual SIM cards, a replaceable battery and built-in FM radio.", added Pichai.
After launching in India, Google said it plans to expand Android One to Indonesia, Philippines and other South Asian countries (Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) by the end of 2014 and in more countries in 2015.
The company is working with partners including Alcatel Onetouch, ASUS, HTC, Intex, Lava, Lenovo, Panasonic, Xolo, and chipmaker Qualcomm to build more devices under Android One program.
Advertisements