Google To Launch $100 Android Smartphone
Who says you have to spend a fortune to get your hands on an Android smartphone? While there are plenty of expensive top-dollar Android devices on the market, Google is planning to take a different approach with its upcoming “Android One” smartphone.
According to ZD Net, the Mountain View company is preparing to launch a $100 smartphone complete with its signature Android operating system. Known as the Android One, it will feature a 4.5″ display screen, dual-SIM, SD card slot for additional storage/expansion, built-in FM radio, automatic updates, and the stock Android operating system.
The most impressive feature of Google’s upcoming Android One smartphone is its rock-bottom price tag of just $100. So, why is Google releasing such an inexpensive smartphone? Market analysts believe Google is trying to appeal to consumers in developing and/or l0w-income regions. Google released a statement saying its goal with Android One is to create a smartphone similar to its own flagship device, the Nexus 5, but at a “highly affordable” price.
Google has reportedly already sent out invitations to members of the Indian press. The invitations (see image above) say “Block Your Date For an Exciting Announcement From Google. Monday September 15 From 12 Noon. More Details Closer To The Date.” The invitations don’t necessarily confirm the unveiling of Google’s Android One smartphone, but the general consensus is that Google will in fact display its ultra-affordable smartphone to the Indian press on the 15th of September.
Some analysts are saying Google’s Android One smartphone is a direct threat to Samsung, as it will spur a race among smartphone companies to manufacture the cheapest device possible. This is in stark contrast to previous years, in which companies have focused strictly on high-end devices. Samsung has yet to release a budget-friendly smartphone that’s comparable to the Android One, but there’s a good chance they may in the near future, especially with Google now entering this untapped market.
“A major threat for Samsung is that Android One will accelerate the race to the bottom on smartphone pricing. Android One now makes Google a foe, not just a friend, for Samsung,” said Neil Mawston, a UK-based analyst at Strategy Analytics.
The Android One is expected to be released later this year with a price of $100 or less in Brazil, India, China, and Russia.
Would you pay $100 for the Android One smartphone? Let us know what you think in the comments section below!