Monday 1 September 2014

Google sending out invites for September 15th event in India, Android One launch imminent?

Last week a new report claimed Micromax, Karbonn, and Spice would launch the first Android One handsets in India in September, a bit earlier than the originally believed October target. With that in mind, Google has now began sending invites out telling us to “block your date for an exciting new announcement from Google.” 
The event will take place on September 15th in India, and while there’s no guarantee that Google plans to formally out the first crop of Android One handsets, we wouldn’t at all be shocked if they do. So what can we expect from Android One when it debuts? If last week’s report from Economic Times proves accurate, the first products will be priced in the RS 7000 to RS 10000 range, or about $115 to $165.
Spec-wise, the devices should have quad-core CPUs, 1GB RAM, batteries around the 1700mAh range, SD card support, dual SIM support, screens 4.3 to 4.5-inches in size and they will all be powered by stock Android. While the first devices will initially ship with Android 4.4.4 KitKat, Android One devices receive updates directly from Google and that means Android L is guaranteed to arrive in as short of order as possible. That’s really what makes the Android One program so important.
There are already tons of cheap phones available in this price (and lower) in India and other emerging markets, but many times they ship with obsolete versions of the Android OS with little to no chance of ever seeing an update. Android One means these consumers will have an option that is still extremely affordable, but has fewer compromises when it comes to the software.
Again, we can’t say with certainty that September 15th will see Android One’s formal launch, but we’ll be sure to keep you updated as we learn more!

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