Google To Launch 'Low-Cost' Android One Smartphones In U.S.

Google aims to bring its Android One product line of low-cost smartphones to the United States this year, according to The Information.

Details for Android One’s U.S. launch are still being finalized, but The Information reports the first phone in the series is slated to launch by the middle of this year. The phone will have guaranteed regular security updates and potentially be priced at between $200 to $300.

Android One was originally launched in 2014 as a way to bring affordable Google smartphones and services to users in emerging and developing markets. The models, which are typically produced by third-party manufacturers, have been launched in regions including Africa and several southeast Asian countries.

While public attention on smartphones generally focuses on premium users with models like Google’s Pixel lineup and the Apple iPhone 7, the low-cost sector has been an increasing concern for manufacturers who want to engage new markets. With their lower price tag, models like Apple’s iPhone SE have made a major push for users who aren’t early adopters.

As The Verge notes, Google’s hands-off approach to the low-cost market has had its downsides due to third-party manufacturer issues like irregular update schedules and bloatware. With Android One, the company hopes to play a more direct role in the smartphone hardware and update process.

Android One also hasn’t been Google’s only push into the international smartphone market. At a public appearance in India in January, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said a smartphone for the Indian market should cost $30.