Micromax will be officially unveiling its Android One-based smartphone in India on Monday. According to sources, the smartphone will be available exclusively via e-commerce site Snapdeal.
Right now there’s no word on the pricing of the smartphone, but we speculate it to be around Rs. 6,000 – 7,000. Sources suggest the phone will be “affordable”. It may be recalled that Google had showcased Android One running on a Micromax smartphone. According to reports, the smartphone to be showcased on Monday will be featuring removable back, 1750 mAh battery, dual-SIM connectivity, microSD slot, 1GB of RAM, 5MP camera, quad-core processor and 4.3 or 4.5-inch display. The smartphone will be upgradable to the Android L.
Interestingly, Google has scheduled a September 15 event where the company is likely to showcase the Android One platform and phones running on it. It’s notable Google has tied up with the likes of Micromax, Karbonn and Spice to launch Android One-based smartphones.
Google is targeting the entry-level segment with its new platform that has been custom built for low end phones. The entry-level segment has seen a lot of buzz, especially after the launch of Firefox phones.
Google’s Android One based smartphones are likely to have a huge impact on the smartphone industry in India. From customers’ point of view, they will get more affordable phones with perhaps better specifications, while smartphone players target a larger set of customer base and have chance to make more profits. Also, Google’s support will help domestic brands to give tougher competition to the likes of Samsung, Sony and Nokia.