Google’s Android One OS to power smartphones for emerging markets

Google Inc yesterday outlined plans for Android One, a version of the search engine giant's mobile operating system that would work with phones developed for emerging markets such as India.

The effort, outlined by Android chief Sundar Pichai, was aimed at getting the next 1 billion Android users on the platform, which involves development of low cost devices and software. 

Android One in essence would attempt to  develop reference platforms to allow original equipment manufacturers to build phones more easily.

Though the platform would be under Google it would allow for some customisation. India-based smartphone player, Micromax would offer a device with a dual SIM, SD card, 4.5 inch screen and FM radio. Spice and Karbonn Mobiles too would be hardware partners.

The Financial Express quoted Pichai as saying, Google would be launching it around the world, but would launch it in India first in the fall of this year.

They devices would cost less than $100, according to Pichai. Google's initiative has gained significance as users are increasingly switching to smartphones, tablets and even car dashboards.

Reaching out to users over these screens would allow Google to extend its reach, and collect valuable user data coveted by companies and advertisers.

Meanwhile, AFP reports that the Android-powered handset would be built with a basic set of features including FM radio, and have a screen slightly smaller than five inches.

According to AFP Google was working with carriers in India to provide affordable telecom service packages to go with the smartphones, which could in many cases provide internet access for the first time.

The Android One initiative would see smartphone makers and others in the "ecosystem" to pool resources and standardise hardware platforms to provide "turnkey solutions" for making handsets, according to Pichai.

He said there were many people, billions of people, in fact, who still did not have access to a smartphone.

He said Google wanted to change that.

Google would work with handset makers and others in the industry to offer affordable high quality, reasonably priced phones.

He said Google had long wondered what potential could be unleashed if people everywhere had access to the latest technology and the world's information. He added, it was time to find out.

Google and Facebook are pulling out all stops  to help people get online, in parts of the world where internet connectivity is scant, unreliable, or simply non-existent.