Yesterday, Google unveiled a $105 smartphone in India as part of its Android One initiative, which aims to make affordable smartphones accessible to more people and enhance their internet experience.
Sundar Pichai, Google‘s Senior Vice President, emphasized the company’s commitment to helping individuals connect to the Internet and ensuring that they can access the vast resources available online.
The new smartphone, priced at 6,399 rupees ($105), is now available at major retail outlets across India. This launch marks a significant step in Google’s broader strategy to introduce cost-effective, high-quality smartphones to developing markets.
In addition to the launch, Google, based in California, announced new partnerships with several prominent handset manufacturers, including Acer, ASUS, HTC, and Lenovo. These collaborations are expected to broaden the range of low-cost Android One smartphones available to consumers.
Pichai also outlined the initiative’s future expansion plans, indicating that Android One smartphones will become available in Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines by the end of the year. This expansion is part of Google’s ongoing effort to democratize access to smart technology and the internet, bridging the digital divide in emerging markets and fostering a more inclusive digital experience worldwide.