Google is betting big when it comes to low cost devices. While till now it was just the Nexus series along with the Google versions of the flagships. Google has tied up with the manufacturers like Micromax, Karbonn and Spice for Android One project under which these manufacturers will be rolling out the smartphones under $100 price point. If you thought that, these manufacturers will give run for your money when it comes to rolling out the updates? Then it will not be the case as all thanks to the Google for keeping the software stack for these smartphones with itself which will enable Google to push the updates to users directly. This initiative will assure users of Android One smartphones of updates as Google is known for prompt firmware updates. The best part being Google will have direct access to provide highest consumer satisfaction.
India will soon be witnessing high speed internet via 4G and to empower this, devices will play a very important role. Google will be coming up with the smartphones which are 4G-LTE ready and will be priced under $100. Yes, you have read this right. All of on 4G LTE will only happen not before Q2’15 which may also mark the commercial 4G launches by Airtel, Videocon and Reliance Jio. Android ONE devices will also be supporting the VoLTE and eMBMS (enhanced Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Services) capabilities which too will be around Q2,2015.
Android One devices will be powered with Kitkat 4.4 Android OS unlike the previously rumored Android L update which has just slightly slipped the internal deadline of release due to some minor constraints. Android L is supposedly to be released later in October 2014. With standard operating system approach, Google will also aim to try out various hardware specs.
With different manufacturers and different specs, Google is all set to create the next generation smartphone revolution in India. From current 3 list of manufacturers, Google will also be looking forward to onboard the new manufacturers under its Android One programme. LAVA, Intex, XiaoMi, Lenovo etc. too are in the fray to join the Android One programme. Google aims to connect with the next 1Billion smartphone users under its super Android One project which will be announced on September 15, 2014.
We will keep you posted about all the latest on the Android One project as in when it happens. Do let us know your thoughts about your expectations on Android One in the comments section below.
