Google at annual Developer conference Google I/O 2014 has announced a new Android platform, Android One. Android One will help OEM to make low cost smartphones. The program will kick off from this fall starting with India.
Google has partnered with Indian manufacturer like Micromax, Karbonn and Spice to launch Android One Smartphones. The phone will be priced below $100 and have better specifications.
Google has also showed off Micromax smartphone powered by Android One which has 4.5 inch screen, Dual SIM, FM Radio and SD Card support. The phone has price tag below $100.
Android One powered handsets will receive updates directly from Google. OEMs can add their own apps. This is like Nexus devices which gets updates directly from Google. It will help manufacturers to seed latest updates without much lengthy process. All will reduce the cost of the phone.
Google will provide reference design to OEM which will help in reducing the cost of the phone. Android One smartphones will have Stock Android, Automatic updates and Play Auto Installs.
Android One powered devices will boost the sales of Smartphones in emerging markets. Google has also partnered with telecom partners to provide combined offers.
Android One handsets will go on sale in coming months and will be priced below ₹6,000.
