Google eyeing lower price for next-gen Android One handsets

Android One has been only somewhat successful in the Indian market so far. Both homegrown handset manufacturers and importers such as Xiaomi have been more successful since Android One’s launch. Xiaomi, for example, has mated its traditional high-end hardware with its low prices while others such as Micromax and Intex have used retail distribution channels and lower prices to expand their footprint. In addition, the specifications of the first Android One phones did not quite meet with consumer expectations.

The Android One program was intended to unify the diverse number of Android versions and devices currently in consumers’ hands. Not only would a single version of Android – guaranteed to be updated – be more secure, but would also provide what the company thinks is a better overall experience in a dirt cheap phone. Apparently, the value proposition was not good enough at the $100 price point – undercut by cheaper phones with comparable specs on the low end and by more expensive but far more capable phones at a slightly higher price.

Google is pushing the price point lower to compete. The company is now working with its partners to manufacture phones to sell roughly from $31 to $47. This undoubtedly means that it will be subsidizing the phones to some degree. Despite this, Google appears to want its next batch of Android customers to use Android One rather than the current mix of Android versions on the market today.