Android One in the Philippines - What does it mean? - Hungry Geeks

We have seen the successful Nexus program of Google from manufacturers like HTC, Motorola, Samsung, ASUS. All of them were partners with Google to create an affordable, up to date and specification-worthy android devices. This challenged other manufacturers to either match the Nexus devices or to go more above it, which lead to more affordable strong-spec’d devices worldwide.

Android One

But now, Google took the initiative into a whole new level with Android One. By tapping local manufacturers in every country, Google provides the latest updates (Including the next generation Android M), the best software compatibility (faster response and longer battery life) and the widest application ecosystem. In exchange, the local branded manufacturers can produce an affordable smartphone (of course, given under certain Google specifications) that is guaranteed for updates, software compatibility which translates to greater customer experience. Plus all phones are certified by Google for it’s “One” initiative.

It provides a whole new experience for Android users with stock android experience, while removing the fear of their phones being left out when the next Android update is released. Usually the manufacturer’s processor is the bottleneck for providing updates, but since this initiative is from Google, they can roll out updates straight to their partners.

Specifications of Cherry Mobile One and MyPhone Uno

Cherry Mobile One

4.5” FWVGA display
Cortex A7 1.3 GHz Quad-Core processor
1GB RAM
8GB storage (expandable up to 32GB)
2x micro SIM
Front and rear facing cameras (2MP and 5MP)
Rechargeable lithium-ion, 1700mAh
Android™ Lollipop (and gets the new version soon after it’s released)
SRP Php3,990 (Now available at Smart / Sun Postpaid Plans)

MyPhone Uno

4.5” FWVGA display
Cortex A7 1.3 GHz Quad-Core processor
1GB RAM
4GB (expandable up to 32GB)
2x micro SIM
Front and rear facing cameras (2MP and 5MP)
Rechargeable lithium-ion, 1700mAh
Android™ Lollipop (and gets the new version soon after it’s released)
SRP Php4,599

Is it sustainable?

The Nexus initiative is present and is currently rolling, but hardly felt (especially in the Philippines) due to other manufacturers have matched their products to compete with the Nexus line which is also limited in terms of availability in other countries. But since Android One is specifically targeted to emerging countries like the Philippines, we could see better support from Google; especially now that they have an existing local office.

But the question to ask is… can Cherry Mobile and MyPhone avoid producing more phones to battle their own? With Cherry Mobile producing phones like crazy, and MyPhone aggressively moving into the affordable market as well; then its not surprising if they will release a smartphone with the same price but with better specifications in the future. Ultimately, this will divide their audience and might not drive enough unit sales for Google. Not to mention other brands like Starmobile, SKK, BS Mobile, ZH&K might release same priced smartphones with better specifications just to compete.

Android One is definitely a gamble here in the Philippines, but with long term benefits guaranteed, we just hope that regular Juan Dela Cruz could understand the benefit of having the latest software. All is left are accessories support for the phones like (Screen Protector, Jelly Casing, etc) for Filipinos to jump into the Android One bandwagon. (Admit it, we Filipinos consider accessories as one of factors in purchasing a gadget)

As of now, we have to say congratulations to Google Philippines for launching the Android One initiative. Definitely exciting to see what it could create in the local smartphone arena. Should you get one? Our suggestion is to get one; unless you are already satisfied with your current android performance. Nothing beats getting your smartphone updated to the latest android version.