Two things that I hate with cheap Android phones are the lack of timely software updates and heavy customization.
Thankfully, Google launched a program called Android One where they help smartphone manufacturers in creating affordable phones compatible with Android’s latest version!
To do this, Google gives a set of hardware specifications that manufacturers must follow. In essence, Google will design Android One smartphones and manufacturers will simply ‘manufacture’ them.
These Android One smartphones are then ensured to have full compatibility with the newest release of Android. No more waiting months to enjoy the perks of Android 4.4 Kitkat, Lollipop, Moonpie or whatever!
Of course, smartphone manufacturers and distributors can still personalize Android One smartphones by adding their apps and services. However, heavy customization like Samsung’s TouchWiz are not allowed.
Android One is meant for entry level smartphones. That’s why the first company with a certified Android One smartphone is India’s Micromax. Micromax often have the same model of smartphones with MyPhone.
Sundar Pichai, head of Google’s Android and Chrome division showed the Micromax Android One smartphone on stage during the Google I/O Developers Conference 2014 in San Francisco, California.
It’s a 4.5-inch model with dual SIM support, microSD card slot and FM Radio for under $100 or ₱4,400. That’s the hottest price level of smartphones here in the Philippines! Remember Cherry Mobile Flare (₱3,999)? How about the MyPhone Rio (₱4,999)?
Other companies like Spice and Karbonn will also release Android One handsets after Micromax. Cherry Mobile has several smartphones with the same OEM as Karbonn and Spice.
Are you excited with Android One? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
