How Android Go can be a game-changer for Google
What's the story
The Android Go operating system (OS) by Google is an optimized version of the latest Android Oreo OS which is specially designed for low-configuration smartphones.
It runs the Lite version of several Google apps, which load faster, use less data, and take up less space.
Android Go is everything Google needs to reach more customers and expand into newer markets. Here's why.
Details
With Android Go, Google can conquer the low-end smartphone market
Envisioned for low-end smartphones, Android Go provides a solid smartphone experience on cheaper devices without cutting down on essential apps and services that any standard Android smarphone offers.
It is complete with all Google apps like Maps Go, Gmail Go, YouTube Go, Google Go, and even Assistant Go.
AI assistants on smartphones costing less than Rs. 5,000, who would've thought?
The next billion
Bridging the gap between Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 50,000 smartphones
Google designed Android Go for devices with 1GB RAM or less to reach its "next billion" customers.
Caesar Sengupta, VP, Next Billion Users Team, earlier said Android Go smartphones will be priced under $50 (Rs. 3,500).
That is yet to happen, with the current offerings in the range of Rs. 5,000, but when it does, there is true potential for disrupting the smartphone market.
Opportunity
Introducing Android Go smartphones in developing markets
So essentially, with Android Go, Google can tap markets like rural India, Africa, and South America, where people rely on cheaper phones that often cut back on essentials that say, a Samsung user enjoys.
These markets either don't have the infrastructure to support 4G/LTE networks or the economy to support a Rs. 50,000 smartphone.
Information
Devices running Android Go
Lava International launched the first Android Go smartphone in India in February. Called the Z50, it is priced at Rs. 5,000. On the other hand, in the US, Alcatel's 1X has become the first smartphone running Android Go. It is priced at $100 (Rs. 7,000).