Google's push into smartphones: Android One @ Dh385

Smartphones with the latest version of Android just got more affordable, and you will now be able to pick one up for as low as $105 (Dh385).

Google has announced its new low-end Android One series with a promise to penetrate developing markets.

Sundar Pichai, Senior Vice-President, Android, Chrome and Apps unveiled Android One devices of three of its new OEMs (original equipment manufacturer) – Karbonn, Micromax, and Spice in India.

The key elements of the Android One device will be that they will all receive immediate OS upgrades by Google.

All their models match Google specifications, as they all have 4.5-inch display (845 x 480 pixels) support dual SIM and run stock Android version of KitKat 4.4.

In terms of hardware, these devices come with quad core processor, 1GB RAM, 4GB storage space, and 5MP rear camera.

Pichai also announced that Google will soon expand the Android One devices to other markets and other OEMs.

Next in line are countries such as Bangladesh, Indonesia and the Philippines.

Among the OEMs are Acer, Alcatel, ASUS, HTC, Intex, Lava, Lenovo, Panasonic and Xolo.

Google’s next OS upgrade – Android L is expected to be announced later this year.

Earlier in July, Google announced that that the new upgrade would provide a major push for Android and seamless integration across multiple platforms.

Apart from a new design element, Google announced the release of over 5,000 APKs for developers to work on its new OS - Android L, to be released later this year and rolled out new platforms for TV, car and wrist watch.

Major push for Android & seamless integration

Today’s event has also thrown up some info on the forthcoming update. Reports claim that Google could name it as Android 5.1. Every previous Nexus release ahead of a major OS launch has indicated the time that matched the numbering of the new OS.

The Karbonn device unveiled had the time set at 5.10.

Whenever the new OS is launched, the upgrades according to Google will first be available to Android One devices and other smartphones running stock Android models.