Google is targeting the next billion smartphones with Android Go
In Google I/O 2017, this year’s installment of Google’s annual developer conference, Google made a significant announcement in terms of its plans to target the next billion smartphones. Google announced the launch of Android Go, which will be a lighter version of its upcoming android operating system Android O.
Android Go is an attempt similar to Google’s Android One strategy, to create a version of Android for devices with lower processing powers. According to Google developer’s blog, “Part of Android’s mission is to bring computing to everyone. We’re excited about seeing more users come online for the first time as the price of entry level smart phones drop, and we want to help manufacturers continue to offer lower-cost devices that provide a great experience for these users.”
Android Go will be really helpful for devices that have 1GB or less of memory. The new Android Go experience is designed around three things:
- Operating system: Google is working on to optimize Android O to run smoothly and efficiently on entry-level devices
- Apps: It is also reorienting Google apps to use less memory, storage space, and mobile data, including apps such as YouTube Go, Chrome, and Gboard.
- Play: On entry-level devices, Play store will promote a better user experience by highlighting apps that are specifically designed for these devices — such as apps that use less memory, storage space, and mobile data — while still giving users access to the entire app catalog.
The Android Go is expected to ship in 2018 for all Android devices that have 1GB or less of memory.