Google has sent out invites to the Indian media for a September 15 event where the company is speculated to showcase the Android One, its new operating system for the entry-level smartphones.
Google had announced Android One at its I/O event in June this year. The new operating system is focussed on emerging countries such as India. Google also revealed its tie up with several Indian smartphone companies such as Micromax, Karbonn, Spice to roll out entry-level smartphones, featuring stock Android as well as support for future Android updates.
Google had also unveiled a Micromax smartphone at the I/O. The phone featured a 4.5-inch display, microSD slot, FM Radio and dual-SIM support. The Android One phones will come with Play Auto Installs, which tells users what apps are suitable for their devices.
We are likely to see a few Android One-based smartphones at the September 15 event. Interestingly, Android One phones are expected to be upgraded to the latest Android L in October. The invitation sent out by Google also hints at the Android L.
If speculations are true, Android One-based phones will have huge impact on the smartphone market in India, and likely to trigger a new competition in the entry-level segment – similar to the trends Moto E and Moto G kicked off in the country. Moreover, it is equally important for Google, which is making all out efforts to expand Android's reach, especially in the emerging markets.
It's worth pointing out here Mozilla is already targeting the entry-level smartphone segment in India with its Firefox-based devices, which are priced as low as Rs. 1,990. It will be really interesting to see the price range Google is going to target.
That being said, it's all speculations right now. More details are likely to be revealed as we get closer to September 19. In the meanwhile, stay tuned for more updates.
What are your expectations from an Android One-based smartphone? What features are you hoping? Let us know your views in the comments section below: